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What does "walls out" coverage mean in an HOA policy?

There is a unit owner in our condo complex. A small corner of drywall in their bathroom opened up and is damaged. Our HOA insurance told me that it is the unit owner's insurance that is responsible and not the HOA insurance since the policy states "walls out". Not sure what this means? Does anyone know?

Sep 29, 2019 Spokane, WA

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Kristine Lee

Insurance Analyst

Kristine is a licensed insurance agent who joined The Zebra in 2019 as an in-house content researcher and writer. Before joining The Zebra, she was a…

Credentials
  • Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
  • 6+ years of Experience in the Insurance Industry

I believe they are saying that since the damage is to the interior of the condo, then it is the unit owner's responsibility to get any damages covered — whether they need to pay out of pocket or use their own condo insurance. The HOA "walls out" policy generally means that it will cover damage to the exterior walls, roofs, and other property contained inside the exterior framing, but not anything inside the unit. Usually, this means that things like appliances, carpeting, cabinets, and in some cases, interior walls are not covered for damage.

Read more about condo insurance, or if you have any questions don't hesitate to ask.

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