What Is a Certificate of Insurance (COI)? A Guide for NJ & PA Businesses
If you've ever been asked to provide a Certificate of Insurance, or COI, you may have wondered exactly what it is—and why another business needs it.
For many businesses, certificates of insurance are a routine part of working with customers, landlords, contractors, and vendors.
What Is a Certificate of Insurance?
A Certificate of Insurance is a document that provides information about your insurance coverage.
It typically identifies the insured business, the insurance policies in place, coverage limits, and policy dates.
A customer or business partner may request a COI to verify that your company carries the insurance required for a contract or project.
Why Do Businesses Need COIs?
A customer, landlord, general contractor, or other business may require proof of insurance before allowing you to begin work.
For example, a contractor may be asked to provide a COI before starting a project. A landlord may require proof of liability insurance before allowing a tenant to occupy a commercial space.
The certificate provides a convenient way to demonstrate that the required insurance is in place.
Does a COI Change Your Insurance Coverage?
No. A Certificate of Insurance generally provides evidence of coverage; it does not replace your insurance policy.
The actual policy determines the coverage, exclusions, conditions, and limits that apply.
That's why it's important to make sure your underlying insurance is appropriate for your business rather than simply obtaining a certificate when someone requests one.
Need a Certificate of Insurance?
If your business needs a COI for a customer, project, landlord, or contract, we can help you determine what information is required.
Barry Paul Rose Insurance Agency provides Certificate of Insurance requests for businesses in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
Need a COI? Contact our office for help with your request.
