ROCHESTER, Minn. (KTTC) – A Rochester homeowner is fighting two insurance companies in court after both denied coverage for fire damage to his townhome, leaving him without resources to repair the property more than two years later.

Josh Hedin’s townhome was destroyed by fire in November 2022 when a dog jumped onto the stove, a box caught fire and left the home unlivable. The fire occurred on the first night Hedin’s sister was moving into the property with her two sons.

“It’s absolutely awful coming back into this property and seeing the way it is,” Hedin said.

Insurance requirements create possible coverage gap

The townhome is part of a homeowner’s association that required Hedin to carry two insurance policies. The first was a “studs out” policy covering the exterior of the home. Hedin also purchased an HO6 policy, also known as condo insurance, to cover interior fire damage and personal property.

“As soon as the adjuster got a hold of the bylaws here, she said there is no coverage for you,” Hedin said.

When Hedin contacted his second insurance company, they also denied the claim.

“When I went to the homeowner’s policy insurance company, they said, ‘oh, no, you had an HO6 policy for this exact reason. We’re not covering it either,’” Hedin said.

Legal battle continues

Hedin says all insurance premiums were paid in full. The dispute centers on interpretation of the HOA bylaws, with insurance companies disagreeing on coverage responsibilities.

In 2024, Hedin filed a lawsuit alleging the companies breached their contracts and were negligent. The case lists seven defendants, though Hedin asked that the companies not be named as the case moves through the legal system.

“I was covered, and now I’m not,” Hedin said.

The case is currently before a judge. If the judge cannot decide, a jury will determine which party is responsible for repairs.

“I don’t have the resources to do it, and I also still firmly believe this is an insurance issue,” Hedin said.

All defendants either declined to comment on ongoing litigation or did not respond to requests for comment.

Hedin hopes his experience serves as a warning to other townhome owners about potential coverage gaps.

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