If you've ever been asked to "send over your COI" before starting a job, you know the certificate of insurance is a non-negotiable part of doing business as a contractor. But what exactly is it, what does it include, and how do you get one?
What Is a Certificate of Insurance (COI)?
A certificate of insurance — commonly called a COI — is a one-page document that summarizes your insurance coverage. It shows proof that you carry active insurance policies, including the type of coverage, policy limits, carrier name, and expiration dates.
It does not transfer coverage rights to the person receiving it — it simply confirms that coverage exists.
What's Typically Listed on a COI?
- Named insured: Your business name as it appears on the policy
- Insurance company: The carrier providing the coverage
- Policy numbers: Unique identifiers for each policy
- Coverage types: General liability, auto, workers' comp, umbrella, etc.
- Policy limits: Per occurrence and aggregate amounts
- Effective and expiration dates: When coverage starts and ends
- Certificate holder: The person or company requesting the COI
Why Do General Contractors Require Them?
When a GC hires a subcontractor, they're taking on risk. If that subcontractor injures someone or damages property and doesn't have insurance, the GC could be held liable. A COI gives the GC proof that their subs are properly insured — protecting everyone on the job site.
Property owners, developers, municipalities, and commercial clients all require COIs for the same reason.
What Is an Additional Insured?
Many job contracts require you not just to carry insurance, but to add the GC or property owner as an additional insured on your policy. This gives them direct protection under your general liability policy if a claim arises from your work.
This is a standard request — Altamira can add additional insureds and issue updated COIs quickly, often the same day.
What Is a Waiver of Subrogation?
Some contracts also require a waiver of subrogation — this prevents your insurance company from going after the GC or property owner to recover claim costs, even if they were partially at fault. It's common on larger commercial projects.
How Do I Get a COI?
Your insurance broker or agent issues COIs on your behalf. At Altamira, we can generate and email a certificate of insurance to any party within minutes — no waiting, no delays. If you need it urgently before a job starts, just call or email us.
How Quickly Can I Get One?
Once you have active policies in place, a COI can typically be issued the same day — often within minutes. If you need it sent directly to a GC or owner, we can email it straight to them.
The Bottom Line
A COI is your ticket to getting on job sites. Make sure your policies are up to date, you know your limits, and you have a broker who can issue certificates quickly when you need them. Altamira specializes in contractor insurance — contact us to get properly covered and get your COI in hand.