This could vary by each condo. When you make an offer on one it is contingent on getting the condo docs which will explain what the dues cover, how much they are, paid monthly, yearly or quarterly, and get a statement of the financial condition of the association.

In most cases, the dues cover outside maintenance, adjoining walls, but not interior damage. If you really want to play it safe you can get coverage for the interior as well and it is not usually very expensive. Go online and get some quotes, but you would probably need an address to do so.

As a Florida born native and an agent with 30 years experience, and having gone through many hurricanes before, I would recommend you get extra coverage for what the association doesn't cover. It would cost more money to replace all your applicances, any flood damage inside, pc's, TV's, etc. and you'd have peace of mind ;-) Keep copies of pictures and other valuable momento's in a safety deposit box or on an online storage facility so you can get them back. This is most often what hurts people. You can fix your condo or house, you can replace material possessions - you can't get your pictures, momento's or family members back. though.

Although we've been spared the last few years in Orlando, I still have nightmares about hurricane Charlie and the 3 that came after in such a short time frame. Thankfully the insurance commission changed the laws and rather than having to pay a deductible for EACH hurricane, it is now only by season, if we ever have more than one. The other thing to note is that hurricanes are most usually followed by tornadoes, which can be a separate issue, so GET the extra coverage, learn the safety rules about how to survive a hurricane safely, ( I just fly north til it's over ;-) if you are buying further south (Miramar) you'd need to make your decision sooner as it's a further drive, and when it gets closer, they shut down the airports.

Thankfully hurricanes are usually slow moving so you have time to prepare. During Charlie, I sold a house to a relocation client from CA. I asked him why on earth would he be buying a house during a hurricane! His reply was CA has Earthquakes, you don't get any advance notice. I guess we can be thankful for that!

Hope this helps! If you need a referral to a great agent in your area, let me know. I know all the good ones who can help you best. PaulaBean@HomeOrlando.com