AboutJay K. Williams, AAI, AIP, CIC, CRM Expertise I can answer questions relating to the following coverages: personal auto; homeowners; commercial auto; commercial liability; commercial property; business income and all other property and casualty coverages.
Experience I have been in the insurance industry in Florida since 1979. I am currently the president of a Florida domestic insurance company subsidiary. I've taught continuing education classes in Florida and across the country. I am quite familiar with all coverages including Florida Condominium master policies and unit owner policies. I also specialize in agent professional liability. I have been a professional educator since 2001.
Organizations I am a member of the Florida Associaion of Insurance Agents, the state affiliate of the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America.
Education/Credentials I currently carry the following professional designations:
Accredited Advisor in Insurance (AAI)
Associate in Insurance Production (AIP)
Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC)
Certified Risk Manager (CRM)
Question I am on cloud nine having purchased my first townhouse in West Palm Beach,
fl. Even sweeter is the tenant is staying on paying well. My question re:
insurance concerns liability and fire. Being new and on a budget, aren't we
all, don't know what to look for or where. The names I remember have pulled
out of Fl. Finally am I responsible if a tenant falls or burns himself on the
stove etc... even though everything is in good condition if they can... could
they somehow collect beyond the policy amount and end up owning my
home, car and other stuff. As you can I am in need of help, thanks. Michele
Answer Hi Michele,
Congratulations!
The first thing we need to decide is whether this is truly a townhouse or is it really a condominium. There are two ways to tell...first, how does the corporate document read--does it say it's a condominium association or a homeowners association. Second, do you own your portion of the building or are you just the owner of the airspace and the interior surfaces.
Some townhouse associations try to operate like condo associations, but there is a difference in the ownership and the laws that apply.
It's important to know so that you purchase the proper coverage. Once you find out, call a local independent agent. They represent several companies that can write the coverage for you.
In response to your last concern, you would only be liable to the tenant if the fall or burn was due to your negligence...for example: you knew there was a problem with the stove not properly turning off but you failed to fix it. As a result, the tenant accidentally put his hand on the burner and was hurt. In that case, you could be held liable. The normal stuff that happens would not be your responsibility. Any ultimate judgment would be subject to the court system. Most times, in this type of situation, the company settles with the claimant and gets a waiver that limits the recovery to the policy limits.
I hope that helps a little. Let me know if you have more questions.
