Windows can be easy to overlook when it comes to condo maintenance, but they’re one of the most common sources of confusion for owners. Whether it’s routine cleaning, dealing with a pesky draft, or replacing a broken window, it’s not always clear whether the responsibility falls on you or your condo corporation.
The answer depends on a few key factors and can vary from building to building. In this article, we’ll break down who’s responsible for what when it comes to condo windows, how condo insurance fits into the picture, and what to do if something goes wrong.
Are windows a common element in a condo?
In many condo buildings, windows are considered exclusive-use common elements. This means that they are part of the building’s shared structure but are only used by the owner of that specific unit.
Even so, the responsibility for cleaning, repairs, or replacements might still fall to the condo corporation rather than the unit owner. This depends on how responsibilities are defined in your building’s condo declaration and bylaws.
If you’re unsure how your building classifies windows, check the documents you received when you bought your unit. These should clarify whether windows are part of your responsibilities as the owner, exclusive-use elements, or common elements, and who is responsible for maintaining them.
Condo owner vs. condo corporation responsibilities for windows
There is no universal rule when it comes to condo windows. Responsibilities should be outlined in your condo corporation’s governing documents and are likely to differ from building to building.
Generally speaking, though, condo corporations are usually responsible for the exterior structure of the building, which includes the window frames and panes. On the other hand, condo owners are typically responsible for the maintenance of the windows from the inside of their unit, such as cleaning, condensation, and installing blinds or shades.
Here’s a general idea of how duties are usually divided:
Condo window cleaning
- Interior glass and screens are usually your responsibility as the condo unit owner, and regular cleaning and maintenance fall under your care
- Exterior window cleaning is typically handled by the condo corporation for safety and accessibility reasons, especially in high-rise buildings
- Some condo corporations schedule seasonal exterior cleanings, with the cost covered by your condo fees or the building’s maintenance budget
Condo window repair
- Minor interior issues, like condensation between panes, sticky locks, or small drafts are often the unit owner’s responsibility, especially if they are cosmetic or the cause of normal wear and tear
- Structural issues like leaks, frame deterioration, or significant water infiltration are more likely to be handled by the condo corporation
Condo window replacement
- Replacing windows usually falls under the condo corporation’s responsibilities, especially if they are classified as common or exclusive-use common elements
- You could be charged extra on top of your monthly condo fees if your condo board issues a special assessment to help pay for large-scale window replacements
- Even if you are willing to replace a window at your own expense, you might still need approval from the condo board, as windows can affect the building’s uniform appearance and structure
Does insurance cover condo windows?
Whether or not your personal condo insurance policy will cover windows depends on two things: the cause of the damage and whether the window is part of your unit or a common element, according to your condo declaration.
Usually, your condo corporation’s master insurance policy will cover damage to common elements, like windows, if they’re classified as such. This can also include damage from events like a fire, storm, or vandalism. Your personal condo insurance policy, on the other hand, may cover damage to windows if they’re considered part of your unit and the damage is caused by a covered event, like a break-in or severe weather.
What to do if a window in your condo gets damaged
If a window in your condo unit breaks or is damaged, follow these steps:
- Safety first: Keep people and pets away from the damaged area
- Secure the area: If the window poses a hazard or leaves your unit exposed, temporarily block it off
- Document everything: Take clear photos and videos, ideally with timestamps, to show the damage in case you need proof for a claim
- Report the issue: Contact your condo property manager or board as soon as possible
- Check your bylaws: This will help you determine whether the responsibility falls on you or the condo corporation
- Contact insurance: If the damage is your responsibility, reach out to your condo insurance provider to see if you’re eligible for coverage
- Get approval for any repairs before proceeding: Never attempt repairs or hire a contractor before confirming who’s responsible and whether approval from your condo corporation is required
Next steps
Condo living means sharing certain responsibilities with your condo corporation, and windows are a perfect example of where those lines can sometimes blur. Being proactive by understanding your role, reviewing your bylaws, and knowing what your condo insurance covers, can save you time and money.
With YouSet, you can get a personalized condo insurance quote in just 4 minutes. You’ll be notified if your premium increases, and we’ll even re-shop for a better deal for you automatically. Get covered today and save yourself a headache down the road.
