What’s The Difference Between Home & Condo Insurance?
Home Insurance vs. Condo Insurance: Understanding HO-3, HO-5, and HO-6 Policies
Not all home insurance is the same. The type of property you own, and how much protection you want, determines which policy is right for you. Here’s a quick breakdown.
HO-3: Standard Home Insurance
This is the most common policy for single-family houses. It covers:
The entire structure of your home
Detached structures (garage, shed, fence, etc.)
Personal belongings (with some limitations)
Liability if someone is injured on your property
HO-3 is solid, but coverage for your belongings is limited to certain risks unless you add endorsements.
HO-5: Enhanced Home Insurance
An HO-5 policy is like the premium version of an HO-3. It offers:
Broader “open-peril” coverage for both your home and your contents
Higher limits for expensive items (jewelry, electronics, collectibles)
Fewer restrictions and fewer gaps in coverage
If you want maximum protection and peace of mind, HO-5 is often worth considering.
HO-6: Condo Insurance
Condo owners need an HO-6 policy. Since your condo association typically insures the building’s exterior and common areas, your coverage focuses on:
The interior of your unit (walls, flooring, fixtures, upgrades)
Your personal belongings
Liability inside your condo
Think of it as coverage “from the walls in.” It's important, however, to check with your condo association by-laws when looking into a plan.
The Bottom Line
HO-3: Great for most homeowners who want standard protection.
HO-5: Ideal if you want broader coverage and fewer limitations.
HO-6: Perfect for condo owners who only need to cover their unit’s interior and personal property.
At Sonon Insurance, we help homeowners and condo owners across Chester County, Berks County, and beyond choose the right plan, without broker fees and with your long-term needs in mind.
👉 Ready to find out which policy is best for you? Contact Sonon Insurance today and let’s make sure your home (or condo) is properly protected.
