How does condominium insurance work in Canada?
Loading article…
Condominium insurance is similar to home insurance, but is used for condominiums and condos.
Although not required by law in Canada, it helps protect your personal property, your storage unit and lawsuits if someone is injured in your condo.
Condo insurance in Canada: how it works
Condo insurance applies to condo units. It’s similar to home insurance, but with two notable differences:
- The condominium corporation commercially insures the building
- Unit owners each take out their own condo insurance
Condo corporation insurance
The condo corporation’s insurance policy protects the building and its interior and exterior common areas. For example, lobbies, elevators, roofs and windows. The condo corporation’s insurance also protects residents from situations that could endanger the public, such as falling debris.
Condo insurance
It’s especially important to have personal condominium insurance (condo insurance) to ensure that all your personal belongings inside the property are covered. You’ll also be protected against unforeseen events that may occur in your unit, for example if someone is injured (third-party liability insurance). Note that condo insurance is different from tenant and homeowner insurance.
To find out more about what condominium insurance covers, continue reading this article and consult the complete guides below.
What is covered by condominium insurance?
Here’s what’s covered by your personal condo insurance.
Contents and personal property
Just like home insurance, your condominium contents and personal effects will be covered by this type of insurance. You’ll be protected against property damage in the event of a claim, including water damage and fire. Insurance can also cover items such as clothing, household goods, jewelry and works of art. The value of the content depends on the policy you choose to subscribe to.
However, check the limits, conditions and exclusions in your insurance contract. However, you can obtain additional coverage for your high-value items, at extra cost. Finally, make sure you have an insurance deductible that meets your needs.
Condominium insurance – Special insurance contribution
You’ll also be protected if the owner of the condominium (condo corporation) sends you a special assessment. This is simply a case where the building has suffered damage (e.g. fire) and the condominium owners are unable to pay for repairs through their insurance or contingency funds. They will then pass the assessment on to each condominium unit owner, which can be devastating. As you may have guessed, it’s unique to condo insurance.
Condominium insurance – Unit improvements
All the improvements you make or have made must be mentioned in your insurance policy for them to be covered. Improvements such as new wood floors, new kitchen cabinets or bathroom renovations must all be disclosed to your insurance agent or broker. Again, this coverage is unique to condo insurance. Check that the insurance amounts correspond to your needs.
Flight
Although this is less likely in the case of condominiums, as they are normally well protected, your personal insurance policy will cover you against theft from your condo. Check that the insurance amounts correspond to the fair value of your personal effects. Also, check exclusions (these should be mentioned in your insurance contract).
Liability Insurance
If you’re at fault in a claim, your liability insurance will cover any compensation costs you may incur. For example, if you set fire to your apartment and damage your neighbor’s wall, instead of paying for the damage, you’ll be protected (to some extent) by the amount of your policy. In our opinion, liability insurance is essential, whether you’re a homeowner, co-owner or tenant.
Storage unit
You might think that your storage unit is commercially assured, but this is not the case. If you have a storage unit, you need to inform your insurer so that they can add additional coverage in the event of theft or damage. Here too, check the amount of insurance coverage and any exclusions.
Additional living costs
Suppose your apartment becomes uninhabitable due to an event covered by your insurance policy. The insurance company will reimburse you for any additional living expenses you have to pay to relocate, such as a hotel room, food and other daily expenses. The amount of this coverage varies from insurer to insurer. Check with your insurance agent or broker.
Bottom Line
Condo insurance in Canada is essential protection for condominium owners. This specialized home insurance covers your unit, your personal property and your civil liability, while complementing your condominium insurance.
To get quotes, use the ClicAssure home insurance comparison tool to find the best condo insurance policy for your needs.
Frequently asked questions about condominium insurance
Who pays for condominium insurance?
Condo insurance is paid for by a co-owner, as it protects personal belongings in his or her condominium unit. The condo corporation’s insurance is paid for by all co-owners through the condo fees, as it protects the building and common areas.
What are the basic coverages in condominium insurance contracts?
Basic coverage in condo insurance contracts includes: personal effects, improvements, theft, civil liability and additional living expenses.
Condo insurance: who pays what?
The condo corporation’s insurance policy (which covers the building and common areas) is paid for by all co-owners through their condo fees. The condo insurance policy (which covers your unit and personal belongings) is paid for individually by each co-owner.
