Master ins. vs Landlord Ins. -- Burst water pipe condo

[Chris Renzi]

Hi BP, Had a water pipe burst in my rented condo last weekend. The condo is part of a 3 unit HOA, with a Master insurance policy. I also have my own landlord policy.

I have claims into both insurance companies now as I'm concerned the master won't cover damage in my unit and I'd like to get this resolved ASAP (tons of claims due to the cold weather last weekend). Should I have opened both? Any guidance on what the best course of action here is based on this situation? Additionally, this is proving time consuming to manage both as there's multiple assessors, contractors coming to look at damage.. 

Thanks for the help! 

[John Mocker]

Chris,

You probably did the right thing opening both claims.  You should find copies of the condo bylaws and declarations.  There should be sections referring to the description of your unit (where it begins and what it includes) as well as definitions of the Common Elements of building (owned by the association and the Limited common elements (used to service one or more units but not all) and how they are handled (who is responsible for them).  With that info you (and the adjusters) should be able to see what, if anything, is under your policy and what is under the master policy.