When you own a condo unit, understanding how your insurance coverage works can feel as complex as debugging legacy code. At Gateway Property & Casualty, proudly serving the communities in and around Dover NH and Augusta ME, we help condo owners navigate these coverage scenarios so they’re never left wondering who pays for what when disaster strikes their property.

Understanding the Coverage Boundaries

Condo insurance typically follows the "walls-in" principle, meaning your policy covers everything from the drywall inward. However, when damage originates in common areas like lobbies, stairwells, or hallways and spreads to your unit, the situation becomes significantly more nuanced. Your condo association’s master policy should handle the initial damage in shared spaces, but your personal policy kicks in for damage to your belongings and any unit improvements you’ve made over time.

When Common Area Damage Affects Your Unit

Water damage is the most common scenario where this coverage overlap occurs in residential buildings. If a pipe bursts in a shared wall and floods your unit, both policies may need to coordinate their response carefully. Your condo insurance will typically cover your personal property, temporary living expenses, and any upgrades you made to the original unit specifications. The association’s policy handles structural repairs to common elements and building systems.

Filing Claims Effectively

Documentation becomes critical in these complex situations. Take photos immediately, contact both insurance providers, and keep detailed records of all communications. Understanding your association’s master policy details helps prevent gaps in coverage.

Protecting Your Investment

Navigating condo insurance doesn’t have to be complicated. Gateway Property & Casualty, serving the greater regions of Dover NH and Augusta ME, specializes in helping condo owners understand exactly what’s covered, ensuring proper protection.