Smart protection without the premium price

A California condo policy (HO-6) covers what your HOA's master policy doesn't: your personal property, interior walls and fixtures, loss assessment, and personal liability. The HOA master policy typically covers the building exterior and common areas, so the two are designed to fit together. Reviewing your HOA's CC&Rs tells you exactly where its coverage stops and yours needs to start.

It isn't required, but standard condo policies exclude earthquake damage entirely. Coverage is added through a separate policy, such as one from the California Earthquake Authority, and condo owners should also look at earthquake loss-assessment coverage in case the HOA passes repair costs to owners.

California law doesn't require it, but nearly all mortgage lenders do, and many HOAs require proof of an HO-6 policy. Even without those requirements, going without coverage leaves your belongings, interior, and personal liability unprotected.

Enough to rebuild your unit's interior, replace your belongings, and cover the loss-assessment limits suggested by your HOA documents. The right numbers depend on your unit and your association's master policy — an agent can review both. Call (877) 411-5200 for a walkthrough of your specific situation.