Condo HOA vs Townhome HOA: Key Differences
Condo and townhome HOAs operate under different structures, which affects who is responsible for repairs, how much you pay in fees, and what you actually own. Understanding these differences is essential before buying.
| Aspect | Condo HOA | Townhome HOA |
|---|---|---|
| What you own | Interior space (airspace between walls) | The structure and often the land beneath it |
| Exterior maintenance | HOA maintains all exterior | Often split — HOA may cover roof/siding, owner covers the rest |
| Roof responsibility | Almost always HOA | Varies — sometimes owner, sometimes HOA |
| Typical monthly fees | Higher (more shared maintenance) | Lower (less shared infrastructure) |
| Insurance | Master policy + HO-6 | May be individual homeowner policy (HO-3) |
| Common areas | Extensive (hallways, lobbies, elevators) | Limited (landscaping, roads, amenities) |
| Unit boundaries | Defined in CC&Rs (interior surfaces) | Typically includes exterior walls |
Bottom Line
The biggest difference comes down to what you own. In a condo, you own the interior airspace and the HOA owns the structure. In a townhome, you typically own your unit's structure. This fundamentally changes who pays for structural and exterior repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a townhome HOA cheaper than a condo HOA?
Generally yes, because townhome HOAs maintain less shared infrastructure. Condo HOAs cover the entire building exterior, roof, and often more common areas. However, townhome owners may pay more out-of-pocket for their own exterior maintenance.
Do townhome owners need HO-6 insurance?
Usually no. Townhome owners typically carry an HO-3 (standard homeowner) policy since they own the structure. Condo owners need an HO-6 policy that complements the HOA's master policy.
Who fixes the roof in a townhome HOA?
It depends on the HOA's CC&Rs. Some townhome HOAs cover the roof as a common element, while others assign roof maintenance to individual owners. Always check your governing documents.
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