If you’ve ever worked on a construction project, you’ve likely been asked for a Certificate of Insurance (COI). But what exactly is a COI, and why is it such a big deal in construction? In this post, we’ll break down what a COI is, why general contractors require it, and how to keep compliance simple.
What Is a Certificate of Insurance (COI)?
A Certificate of Insurance is a standardized document issued by an insurance company or broker. It proves that a contractor or subcontractor carries active insurance coverage. In construction, a COI typically shows:
- General liability insurance
- Workers’ compensation coverage
- Auto liability (when applicable)
- Policy effective dates and expiration dates
Think of it as a contractor’s “proof of coverage” card. Without one, project owners and GCs expose themselves to liability if an accident happens on-site.
Why COIs Matter in Construction
- Risk Management: Verifies that subcontractors are covered if something goes wrong.
- Compliance: Many contracts legally require active COIs before work begins.
- Project Continuity: Prevents delays caused by expired or missing certificates.
- Peace of Mind: Keeps owners, GCs, and subcontractors aligned and protected.
Common Problems with COIs
Despite their importance, COIs are notoriously difficult to manage. Contractors often face:
- Lost or incomplete paperwork.
- Expiration dates tracked in outdated spreadsheets.
- Delayed project starts because subcontractors don’t provide coverage in time.
- Increased liability when a COI quietly expires mid-project.
How to Simplify COI Management
The old way of chasing paper is being replaced with smarter digital tools like ConCOI. Instead of juggling spreadsheets and emails, contractors can:
- Collect COIs through a single upload link or text.
- Automatically extract policy details with AI.
- Get reminders before certificates expire.
- View compliance status in real time from a dashboard.
Final Thoughts
Certificates of Insurance are non-negotiable in construction. They protect everyone involved and keep projects compliant. The challenge isn’t in knowing what a COI is — it’s in managing dozens of them across multiple projects. With platforms like ConCOI, compliance becomes effortless.
👉 Next Step: See How ConCOI Works