Category: Home Insurance

Home and condo insurance have many more similarities than differences. Both protect against unfortunate events such as damage to your living space or injuries to others that might occur there. Since a home or condo is generally among your most significant investments, it is critical to have insurance coverage that protects your assets financially. Our Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. team, serving the State of Iowa, will work with you to structure a policy meeting your needs.

What Does Condo Insurance Cover?

Home and condo insurance have several common elements. Both protect your belongings and liabilities due to the following:

• accidental injuries and property damages caused by you or household members
• medical expenses when you or household members are responsible for injuries to others

The difference between home and condo insurance is how they cover the dwelling or building. Home insurance covers freestanding buildings, so home policies cover all parts of the building and grounds. Since condos are shared properties, the association’s insurance covers the common areas and some portions of the building.

Condo associations have master policies that are either "bare walls-in" or "all-in." "Bare walls-in" policies cover the building exterior and common areas, while your condo policy covers everything inside the walls of your condo. 

An "all-in" policy covers the building exterior and common areas as well as your interior walls, appliances, flooring, and lighting. Your condo insurance covers everything the condo master policy doesn’t handle, including all your belongings, so you must be aware of your association’s master policy coverage when acquiring condo insurance.

Working with Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc

Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc., serving Iowa, has deep experience providing home and condo insurance. Call or stop by today to structure a policy to meet your needs.

Remodeling or renovating can be an exciting opportunity to make a house become the home of your dreams. However, the home of your dreams is often among your most significant investments, so it is critical that you adequately protect that investment during and after a remodeling project. The Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc. team will happily work with you to properly structure home insurance coverage that meets your needs in Iowa.

The Impact of Remodeling and Renovating

A home insurance policy generally offers some protection during the remodeling process. Still, it is a good recommendation (and sometimes a requirement) that you advise your insurance agent of your plan before starting work to confirm your coverage. Consider acquiring an umbrella policy or extending your liability and medical coverage for damages, theft, or injuries during the project. 

A remodeled or renovated home often increases your home’s square footage and furnishings, adds higher-quality countertops or cabinets, or brings more valuable artwork or collectibles into your home, leading to the need to enhance your coverage.

Meanwhile, additions such as new pools or hot tubs make your home more enjoyable but are considered "attractive nuisances" that increase your risk. On the other hand, some renovations reduce your risk. Sprinkler and security systems, improved roofing, and updated heating, plumbing, and electrical systems can lessen your risk, decreasing premiums.

So, regardless of your planned changes, please consult with your agent to see how they may affect your home insurance coverage.

Working with Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc.

Each client has unique home insurance needs. Brown-Hurst Insurance Agency Inc., proudly serving the residents of Iowa, can help you avoid mistakes and protect your home and family against unforeseen events. Call or stop by today to discuss your condo insurance options.