HOA UNLIMITED

HU 254 HOA Insurance HO 6 vs HO 4 Explained

HOA UNLIMITED Season 25 Episode 4

The Importance of HOA Insurance: Understanding HO-6 and HO-4 Policies
Proper insurance coverage is essential for homeowners and renters in an HOA-managed community. A well-structured insurance plan ensures financial protection against property damage, liability claims, and unforeseen disasters. While the HOA typically carries a master insurance policy covering the community’s shared structures and common areas, individual residents must secure their own policies to safeguard their personal property and liability. Two key types of insurance for residents are the HO-6 policy for homeowners and the HO-4 policy for renters.

1. The Role of HOA Master Insurance
HOAs maintain a master insurance policy that covers the building’s exterior, shared spaces, and liability for common areas. However, these policies do not extend coverage to individual units' interiors or personal belongings. This is where HO-6 and HO-4 policies come into play.

2. HO-6 Insurance: Condo/Homeowners Insurance Policy
An HO-6 policy, commonly known as condo insurance, is designed for unit owners in an HOA community. It provides protection where the HOA’s master policy does not apply.

What Does an HO-6 Policy Cover?
Interior Unit Coverage – Protects walls, floors, ceilings, cabinetry, fixtures, and improvements made inside the unit.
Personal Property Coverage – Covers furniture, electronics, appliances, and other personal belongings against theft, fire, water damage, and more.
Liability Protection – Provides coverage if a guest is injured inside the unit or if the homeowner is held responsible for damage to another unit.
Loss of Use – Pays for temporary housing and expenses if the unit becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event.
Loss Assessment Coverage – Helps pay for special assessments levied by the HOA for damages not fully covered by the master policy, such as deductibles.
Why is an HO-6 Policy Important?
The HOA’s master policy only covers the exterior of the building and common areas, leaving the homeowner responsible for interior damages and personal property losses.
Many HOAs require homeowners to carry HO-6 coverage as part of their governing documents.
In case of water leaks, fire damage, or vandalism, an HO-6 policy ensures homeowners don’t face significant out-of-pocket expenses.
3. HO-4 Insurance: Renters Insurance Policy
An HO-4 policy, also known as renters insurance, is designed for tenants who rent units in an HOA-managed community. Unlike homeowners, renters do not own the structure of their unit, but they still need protection for personal property and liability.

What Does an HO-4 Policy Cover?
Personal Property Protection – Covers belongings such as clothing, electronics, furniture, and appliances in case of fire, theft, or water damage.
Liability Coverage – Protects renters if someone is injured inside their unit or if they accidentally cause damage to the property.
Loss of Use – Provides financial assistance for temporary relocation if the rental unit becomes uninhabitable due to a covered disaster.
Why is an HO-4 Policy Important?
The HOA’s master policy does not cover a renter’s personal belongings or liability.
Landlords may require tenants to carry an HO-4 policy as part of their lease agreement.
Without renters insurance, tenants would bear the full financial burden of replacing stolen or damaged items.
4. Importance of Insurance Compliance for HOA Communities
Reduces Financial Risk – Ensures that residents and the HOA are not exposed to unnecessary financial liabilities.
Promotes Community Stability – Adequate insurance coverage minimizes disputes over damages and financial responsibilities.
Meets HOA Requirements – Many HOAs mandate proof of HO-6 or HO-4 coverage to protect the association and its members.
Enhances Property Value – Proper insurance policies help maintain financial security, ma