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Certificate of insurance, in plain English
The questions risk managers, AP clerks, and ops leads actually Google when they're looking at a vendor's COI. Written by people who verify these documents for a living.
What is a certificate of insurance (COI)?
A one-page summary issued by an insurance carrier proving a policyholder has active coverage — and the practical guide to verifying one.
ReadWhat is a waiver of subrogation?
A contract clause where the insurer gives up its right to recover damages from a third party. What it means in practice for COI verification.
ReadCertificate holder vs. additional insured
Two of the most-confused terms on a COI. The difference, why it matters for risk transfer, and how to spot the language on an Acord 25.
ReadAcord 25 form: a field-by-field guide
The standard certificate-of-liability format used across the US. Every field, what it means, and what to look for when verifying.
ReadAdditional insured: what it means and how to verify it
Adding another party to a policy so they're covered too — and the language to look for to confirm it's actually been done.
ReadPrimary and non-contributory: what risk managers need to know
The endorsement that makes the additional insured's coverage primary instead of contributory. Why every general contractor should require it.
ReadHold harmless agreement: what it is and how it interacts with a COI
A contract clause where one party agrees not to hold the other liable. How it works alongside additional-insured status and why both matter.
ReadCompleted operations endorsement: when CG 20 37 matters
The endorsement that extends additional-insured coverage past the end of the work. Why construction contracts require it and what to verify on the COI.
ReadSubcontractor insurance requirements: a GC's checklist
What a general contractor should require from every subcontractor: limits, endorsements, additional-insured language, and the verification workflow.
ReadInsurance policy vs. certificate of insurance
The policy is the contract; the certificate of insurance is a summary issued for verification. Why the distinction matters when there's a claim.
ReadGeneral liability vs. professional liability insurance
GL covers physical injury and property damage; professional liability covers errors and omissions in services. When subcontracts need both.
ReadOccurrence vs. claims-made: which policy form actually covers you
Two ways insurance policies trigger coverage. The difference shows up years after the work — and most people don't realize it until it's too late.
ReadInsurance vs. indemnification: how risk transfer actually works
The contract clause and the insurance policy do different jobs. You need both. Here's why each one fails without the other.
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