What are betterments and improvements in a condo policy?

What is the difference between betterments and improvements and additions and alterations in a condo policy?

When buying insurance, it is key that you get an explanation, preferably in writing, from a broker when/if the policy uses any of these terms, to satisfy yourself that you're buying the coverage you need/ want.Here's one interpretation of the terminology, which is not standard:'Betterments and improvements' tend to suggest upgrades of existing fixtures, equipment, appliances and so forth.'Additions and alterations' tend to suggest adding something, such as a new deck or a new bathroom -- addition or alteration to a space used in the past for some other purpose. These terms are most commonly used in commercial policies, but not unheard of in condominium policies.

What makes up betterments and improvements in a condominium?

This terminology may be being used relative to a master insurance policy and coverage. One definition might be that betterments and improvements could be upgrades to existing fixtures, equipment, appliances and so forth. This is to distinguish these investments from 'additions and alterations', which could be adding a patio or converting a closet to a bathroom, for example. If your question involves insurance, best practices dictate consulting with your broker or carrier to fully understand their definition of these terms. Regardless of who's using the terms, they should define them for you so that you can fully understand them in the context of your situation.

Is an HVAC unit considered personal property or betterments and improvements?

A portable unit would be considered personal property. An installed unit becomes a part of the real property.

What does Ho-6 condo insurance do?

Ho-6 condo insurance covers damage to the homeowner's property which includes furniture, computer equipment and clothing. It also covers losses under the owner's master policy deductibles. In addition it provides coverage for improvements or upgrades as most master insurance policies only cover the condition and value of the home as it was at the time the policy is opened.

What are betterments?

fruits and vegetables

Is leaking pipes inside the wall covered in condo insurance?

it varies from state to state. In Florida, the condo associations insurance would cover that as long as the policy was "special form" if it is in "basic form" than the Difference in Condition policy would respond.

Do condo insurance cover motorcycle theft?

Read your policy and check with your broker for the answer you want.

What is a condo insurance expiration date?

Your insurance policy clearly states its date of expiry.

How would wood flooring be insured under an condominium policy?

It depends. If you added or customized the flooring from the original floor plan than you have additions and alterations. These types of changes are covered on your Coverage A on your condo policy. If it is the original flooring than it would depend on what your condo associations master policy covers.

IF my upstairs condo is untouched by a flood but the building's ground floor is damaged so badly that the entire building is unlivable would my flood insurance protect me?

Let's first review what a condo is. A condominium is an arrangement in which you own your own living space outright (your condo apartment), and you share joint ownership (with all the other condo owners) of the common spaces. There will be (at least) two insurance policies in effect: (1) the condo association policy, which covers (at least) the common areas, and (2) your own personal policy, which covers the contents of your condo apartment, and depending upon your coverage, may also cover the internal structural elements (walls, floors, ceilings, fixtures, countertops, etc.) of your specific condo unit. Since there is no damage to your condo unit, your personal condo insurance will probably not apply, even if you have flood insurance. So, the answer to your question depends upon what type of policy your condo association holds. You should therefore ask your condo association.

Does condo insurance cover land erosion?

Read your master policy and work with your broker to determine whether or not the policy covers land erosion.

How to Determine What Type Of Condo Insurance to Buy?

Condo insurance is not the same as insurance on conventional homes or renters. Condo owners need to ensure that their policies cover all their possessions that are not covered by the Condo Association’s insurance policy. By reading the fine print in the purchase agreement and the insurance policy, a condo owner can determine exactly what type of insurance policy will cover what is not covered by the collective insurance already provided. The condo association will normally collect dues from owners to cover common areas of the complex and sometime installations. The association’s bylaws will state exactly what is covered under the association’s policy. The association’s policy may have a deductible, which is usually divided equally among the unit owners. Collectively, owners may have a “bare walls” policy which covers all real property from the exterior framing inward, but does not cover fixtures or installations within a condo unit. Another type of policy referred to as an “all in” policy covers fixtures and installations, along with the structure and any common areas. The owner needs to know if the policy is cash value, which covers the cost of replacing the items minus depreciation, or if it covers the full replacement cost. If the association has a bare wall policy, the owner must buy insurance to cover features such as countertops, bathroom and kitchen fixtures, flooring and personal items. With an all in policy, the owner may only need to cover personal items. Most insurance companies offer a special unit owners policy, but to save money and ensure that all items are covered, the condo owner needs to determine what he owns and what is covered by the association’s policy. Condo owners are typically responsible for insuring just their property, but the rules differ from complex to complex, and it's important to ask the right questions to ensure you have proper insurance coverage. Usually, condo owners are not responsible for cutting the grass or shoveling ice from the front walk, but they must insure that the proper condo insurance is in place to protect them from any lawsuits related to these things.