A Certificate of Liability Insurance (COI) is a standard document used in the construction industry to confirm that a contractor, subcontractor, or vendor carries specific insurance coverage. It is often requested by project owners, general contractors, or other parties to ensure that the insured party has sufficient liability protection in case of accidents, damages, or injuries on the job site.

Purpose in Construction

In the construction industry, a COI is essential for:

  • Risk Management: Ensuring that contractors or vendors have adequate insurance to cover potential liabilities.
  • Compliance: Meeting contract requirements or local regulations.
  • Reassurance: Providing peace of mind to project stakeholders.

It helps manage liability, ensuring that financial responsibility for claims related to accidents or damages is appropriately covered by the insured party’s policies.

Key Elements in the Certificate

Insured Party:
The business or individual carrying the insurance.
Example: Construction Clean Partners.

Coverages:
Detailed information about the insurance policies, including:

  • Commercial General Liability (CGL): Coverage for bodily injury, property damage, and legal costs.
    • Limits:
      • $1,000,000 per occurrence.
      • $2,000,000 general aggregate.
    • Additional notes: Claims-made or occurrence-based coverage is specified.
  • Automobile Liability: Coverage for vehicles used in the business, including hired and non-owned autos.
    • Limit: $1,000,000 per accident.
  • Umbrella/Excess Liability: Provides additional coverage above the primary policies.
    • Limit: $2,000,000 per occurrence/aggregate.
  • Workers’ Compensation and Employers’ Liability: Covers employee injuries.
    • Limits: $1,000,000 per accident/disease.

Policy Numbers and Periods:
Specific identifiers and effective/expiration dates for each policy.

Additional Notes:

  • Specifies whether the certificate holder is an additional insured (e.g., if the holder has extended liability coverage under the insured’s policy).
  • States if subrogation rights have been waived, meaning the insurer cannot seek reimbursement from the certificate holder.

Certificate Holder:
The entity requesting proof of insurance, often the project owner or general contractor.
Example: RW Allen Construction, LLC.

Sample COI

COI Only (GLAutoUmb 07-25 WC04-25) CCPDownload