COI
Some clients want more than a basic COI — and backflow testing work sometimes needs a second document entirely. Here's what actually needs to be ready.
A certificate of insurance is a one-page summary of your active coverage — carrier, limits, policy dates. For most homeowners and small jobs, that baseline document is all that's needed before you start work.
Property management companies and GCs running formal vendor programs typically want more specific language: the exact corporate entity named as additional insured, waiver of subrogation confirming your carrier won't pursue them even if they share fault, and sometimes primary and non-contributory wording confirming your policy pays first.
If you perform backflow prevention testing, some municipal water utilities and commercial clients want proof of your specific tester certification in addition to your standard certificate of insurance — two separate documents confirming two separate things. Having both ready before you bid keeps a certification gap from costing you a contract you were otherwise qualified for.
If you're pursuing a commercial contract, municipal backflow testing program, or larger GC relationship, ask for their specific insurance and certification requirements before you bid, not after you've won the job. See our page on what's at stake if that paperwork isn't ready when asked for.
Already covered with us? A new certificate for a specific property manager or GC is typically a same-day turnaround. New to Plumbersurance? See what coverage typically costs, get a quote first, and your first certificate is ready the moment you bind.
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FAQ
A basic certificate shows your coverage exists; a property manager running a formal vendor program often wants specific wording added — additional insured naming their exact entity, waiver of subrogation, and sometimes primary and non-contributory language.
Often yes — some municipal water utilities and commercial clients want proof of your specific tester certification alongside, not instead of, your standard certificate of insurance.
Yes. Tell us the exact legal entity name and we'll structure the endorsement as part of your policy — this is a routine, standard request.
Not usually. One annual policy generally covers all your work for the year, and you can request a new certificate naming a specific client whenever needed — no need to requote.
Once you're bound, your certificate is issued instantly — same-day coverage is typically available if you need proof of insurance right away.
Tell us which properties or programs you work with — your certificate is ready the moment you bind.