Certificate of Insurance

What is a certificate of insurance?

A certificate of insurance is a document from your insurance company proving you have specific coverage. Clients, landlords, and vendors commonly request certificates before doing business with you. The certificate summarizes your policies, coverage limits, and effective dates without revealing full policy details. Providing certificates promptly demonstrates professionalism and keeps deals moving.

When certificates are required

Commercial leases often require certificates showing liability coverage with the landlord named as additional insured. Client contracts may require proof of professional liability or errors and omissions coverage. Subcontractors must often prove they carry workers compensation and general liability. Event venues require certificates for any business conducting activities on their premises. Request certificates from your insurance agent or broker.

Understanding certificate contents

Certificates list each policy type, carrier name, policy number, limits, and coverage dates. They show whether you have general liability, professional liability, auto, workers compensation, and umbrella coverage. The certificate holder section names who requested it. Additional insured status, if granted, appears in the description. Certificates are informational only and do not change your actual policy terms.