Who Pays the Condo Claim Deductible? | NY Public Adjuster?

The association pays the master policy deductible, but NY governing documents often charge it back to the unit owner. Here's how condo deductibles work.

Can my condo board make me pay the master deductible?

Often yes, if the governing documents authorize it and the loss originated in your unit. Request the specific declaration or bylaw provision the board is relying on.

Will my HO-6 policy cover that charge?

Some HO-6 forms include loss assessment or deductible-reimbursement coverage that can pay part or all of it. Check your declarations page for those limits.

What if the leak came from a common pipe?

Then it typically isn't chargeable to you. Document the source with a plumber's written finding, because the origin determines who bears the deductible.

Do I pay two deductibles?

You pay your own HO-6 deductible on your claim. If the board also charges you the master deductible, you're exposed to both unless your policy reimburses it.

Condo & Co-op Question

Who Pays the Deductible in a Condo Insurance Claim?

The association pays the master policy deductible, but many New York condo declarations allow the board to charge that deductible back to the unit owner when the loss originated inside their unit — a burst supply line, an overflowed tub, a failed appliance. Your own HO-6 policy has a separate deductible, and some HO-6 forms include coverage that reimburses a master deductible charged to you. Call 516-410-0164 for a free claim review.

Free Claim Review 516-410-0164

Two Deductibles, Two Different Claims

A single water loss in a condo building usually generates two claims: the association's master policy claim for the building and common elements, and the unit owner's HO-6 claim for interior items and personal property. Each carries its own deductible, and neither carrier pays the other's.

Master deductibles in New York buildings can run $10,000, $25,000, or higher. When the board charges that amount back to an owner, it can dwarf the actual damage inside the unit.

What Your Governing Documents Say

The declaration and bylaws control chargebacks. Look for language about responsibility for the master deductible, negligence, and losses originating within a unit — then compare it to your HO-6 declarations page.

Declaration language on deductible responsibility

Bylaw provisions on negligence and chargebacks

Board resolutions adopting a deductible policy

Your HO-6 loss assessment and deductible-reimbursement limits

Written notice from the board assigning the charge

Key Takeaways

The association pays the master deductible to the insurer
Governing documents often shift it to the owner whose unit caused the loss
Your HO-6 deductible is separate and applies to your own claim
Some HO-6 forms reimburse a charged-back master deductible

Licensed in New York

Kevin Godfrey, License #PA-1156995 · 22+ years experience · Fees 6–12% (NY cap 12.5%)

Get Your Free Review

Condo Deductibles Questions

Condo, co-op, and HOA claim questions answered for New York unit owners and boards.

Unit or Association Damage? Get a Free Claim Review.

The claim review is free and there is no obligation either way.

Get Your Free Claim Review