Condo ownership comes with many perks, such as less yard work, shared amenities, and a strong sense of community. However, insuring a condo isn’t as straightforward as insuring a stand-alone home. One term that often confuses condo owners is “walls-in” coverage. While it may sound simple, understanding what it includes can make the difference between a covered claim and an unexpected expense. At Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc., serving Richmond, VA, we strive to educate all our clients. Here’s what you need to know.
Where Condo Insurance Splits
Typically, the condo association insures the building itself and common areas, such as hallways and the roof. The association’s master policy usually stops at the bare walls of your unit. From that point, the responsibility shifts to you. The challenge is that not all associations define the boundary in the same way, which can lead to misunderstandings about what is covered.
What “Walls-In” Really Means
Walls-in coverage begins where the association’s policy ends. It protects the interior finishes of your unit, including drywall, cabinets, countertops, flooring, and built-in fixtures. For example, if a kitchen fire damages your cabinets or a leaking pipe ruins your bathroom floor, walls-in coverage steps in to cover the repairs. Without this coverage, you would be responsible for paying out of pocket for repairs to parts of your condo you assumed were insured.
Why Virginia Condo Owners Should Pay Attention
Condo associations across Virginia vary significantly in what they cover. Some policies stop at the studs, while others go slightly further, but very few cover everything inside your unit. If you’re unsure where your association’s policy ends, you may be carrying more risk than you realize.
Walls-in condo coverage from Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc., serving Richmond, VA, bridges that gap. It ensures your condo’s interior is protected, so one accident doesn’t lead to an overwhelming repair bill. Don’t take unnecessary risks. Contact us today to make sure you’re fully covered.