Condominium associations in Florida must look to Florida Statute §718.111(11) to determine whether they are in compliance with insurance requirements for the state of Florida.
Florida Statute §718.111(11)(f) states:
(f) Every property insurance policy issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2009, for the purpose of protecting the condominium must provide primary coverage for:
1. All portions of the condominium property as originally installed or replacement of like kind and quality, in accordance with the original plans and specifications.
2. All alterations or additions made to the condominium property or association property pursuant to s. 718.113(2).
3. The coverage must exclude all personal property within the unit or limited common elements, and floor, wall, and ceiling coverings, electrical fixtures, appliances, water heaters, water filers, built-in cabinets and countertops, and window treatments, including curtains, drapes, blinds, hardware, and similar window treatment components, or replacements of any of the foregoing which are located within the boundaries of the unit and serve only such unit. Such property and any insurance thereupon is the responsibility of the unit owner.
Florida has a much more extensive statute regarding condominium insurance requirements than many other states. Also, unlike many other states, the Florida statute explicitly states that the association’s policy must exclude certain elements of individual units. Those looking to purchase condominium units in Florida should be aware of what is and is not covered by the association’s policy, and should seek additional coverage to protect themselves and their units in the event of a loss.
