What Is an HO‑6 Policy? (Florida Condo Insurance Guide)
An HO‑6 policy — commonly known as condo insurance — protects the interior of your condominium unit, your personal belongings, and your liability. In Florida, condo insurance is especially important because master policies often leave major coverage gaps that unit owners must fill.
Here’s what an HO‑6 policy covers, what it doesn’t, and how Florida condo owners can make sure they’re fully protected.
What Does an HO‑6 Policy Cover?
An HO‑6 policy includes several key protections:
1. Interior Structure Coverage (“Walls‑In”)
This covers the parts of your unit that the condo association’s master policy does not insure, such as:
- Flooring
- Cabinets
- Countertops
- Interior walls
- Fixtures
- Appliances
Florida condo associations vary widely in what they cover, so reviewing your bylaws is essential.
2. Personal Property Coverage
This protects your belongings from damage or theft, including:
- Furniture
- Electronics
- Clothing
- Kitchenware
- Décor
3. Loss of Use Coverage
If your condo becomes uninhabitable after a covered loss, this pays for temporary living expenses such as hotels or short‑term rentals.
4. Personal Liability Coverage
This protects you if someone is injured in your unit or if you accidentally damage another unit (such as a water leak).
5. Loss Assessment Coverage
This is one of the most important coverages in Florida. It helps pay your share of special assessments for:
- Hurricane damage
- Roof replacements
- Building repairs
- Association deductibles
Florida condo associations often issue assessments after storms, making this coverage essential.
Why HO‑6 Policies Matter in Florida
Florida condo owners face unique risks, including:
- Hurricane wind damage
- Water leaks between units
- High master policy deductibles
- Frequent special assessments
Because of these risks, condo insurance is one of the most important policies a Florida homeowner can carry.
This is especially important for buyers researching florida ho6 condo insurance requirements for first time homebuyers, since lenders require HO‑6 coverage before closing on a condo.
What an HO‑6 Policy Does NOT Cover
An HO‑6 policy does not cover:
- Flooding (requires separate flood insurance)
- Exterior building damage (covered by the master policy)
- Wear and tear
- Maintenance issues
- Earth movement
Optional endorsements can expand coverage depending on the insurer.
How Much Does an HO‑6 Policy Cost in Florida?
Condo insurance in Florida typically costs:
$40 – $90 per month
Rates vary based on location, building age, and coverage limits.
How Much Coverage Do Florida Condo Owners Need?
Most condo owners need:
- $25,000 – $75,000 for interior structure
- $20,000 – $100,000 for personal property
- $300,000 – $500,000 in liability
- $5,000 – $50,000 in loss assessment coverage
Higher limits may be needed for upgraded units or luxury buildings.
Need Help Choosing the Right Condo Insurance?
If you’re unsure how much coverage you need — or want to compare HO‑6 options — I can help you review your condo association documents and choose the right protection.