Learn what a Certificate of Insurance (COI) is, why clients request one, and how proper certificate management helps businesses win contracts and avoid costly delays.
If you’ve ever been asked to provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI), you’re not alone. General contractors, landlords, property managers, municipalities, and customers routinely require proof of insurance before allowing work to begin.
At Prosperity North Advisors, we issue hundreds of Certificates of Insurance each year. While they seem straightforward, misunderstandings about COIs are one of the most common reasons projects are delayed or contracts are held up. This guide explains what a COI is, what it does—and just as importantly—what it does not do.
What Is a Certificate of Insurance?
A Certificate of Insurance is a summary document that provides evidence of your current insurance coverage. It typically lists:
- Insurance carrier(s)
- Policy numbers
- Effective and expiration dates
- Coverage limits
- Types of coverage
- Certificate holder information
A COI does not change your policy or create new coverage. It simply verifies the insurance that is already in force.
Common Requests
Many contract requirements include requests for:
- Additional Insured status
- Waiver of Subrogation
- Primary & Non-Contributory wording
- 30-day Notice of Cancellation (when available by endorsement)
- Specific liability limits
These requests often require policy endorsements—not simply wording on the certificate.
Common Mistakes
- Waiting until the last minute to request a COI.
- Assuming every request can be satisfied without reviewing the policy.
- Believing a certificate alone changes coverage.
- Failing to notify your insurance advisor about contract requirements before work begins.
PNA Pro Tip
Send contracts to your insurance advisor before signing them. This allows endorsements and coverage requirements to be reviewed before they become a problem, helping avoid project delays and unnecessary expenses.
Need a Certificate of Insurance or have contract insurance requirements to review? Prosperity North Advisors helps businesses across multiple industries obtain accurate certificates and understand the endorsements required to satisfy contract obligations.
About Prosperity North Advisors
Prosperity North Advisors specializes in commercial insurance for assisted living facilities, pest control companies, contractors, and service businesses throughout the United States, providing responsive certificate support and risk management guidance.