Certificates of Insurance: What Contractors Get Wrong and What It Costs
· Business Insurance
A certificate that satisfies a general contractor's checklist can still fail the contract behind it. The endorsements matter more than the paper.
Additional Insured Is an Endorsement, Not a Checkbox
Naming someone on a certificate does nothing unless a corresponding endorsement is attached to the policy, with the right form for ongoing and completed operations.
- CG 20 10 for ongoing operations
- CG 20 37 for completed operations
- Primary and non-contributory wording
- Waiver of subrogation where required
Watch the Exclusions in Contractor Policies
Discount contractor GL frequently carries exclusions that erase your core work.
- Residential or condo construction exclusions
- Subcontractor warranty requirements
- Height, depth, or roofing exclusions
- EIFS, mold, and action over exclusions
Get the Contract Reviewed Before You Sign
Insurance requirements in a construction contract are enforceable obligations. We read them against your policy before there is a dispute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my GC reject my certificate?
Usually a missing additional insured endorsement, missing waiver of subrogation, or limits below the contract requirement.
Does my sub need their own policy?
Yes, and you should collect their certificate and endorsements. Otherwise their payroll and claims can land on your audit.
Talk to a Licensed Florida Agent
SunGate Insurance Agency is a locally owned and operated independent agency in Lake Mary, Florida, serving clients across the state. Send us your current declarations page or a competing proposal and we will show you exactly what changed — in writing. Call 407.878.7979 or start with our quote calculator.
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