Guides / Free tool

Free COI Compliance Checker

Free · No sign-up · Updated Oct 28, 2026

Enter your insurance requirements and what the subcontractor's or vendor's certificate actually shows. The checker lists every gap (low limits, missing coverage, missing additional insured or waiver of subrogation, policies that expire before the job ends) and writes the deficiency email to send the insurance agent.

How to check a certificate in five minutes

1. Pull your requirements from your subcontract or vendor agreement. If you don't have them written down, start with the COI requirements by trade.
2. Read the limits from the right-hand column of the ACORD 25 for each policy. Each line can expire on a different date.
3. Check the ADDL INSD and SUBR WVD columns, then confirm the endorsements themselves. A "Y" isn't the endorsement.
4. Compare the insured name and certificate holder box against your contract, letter for letter.
5. Send the deficiency email to the agent in the Producer box, and log the dates in the free expiration tracker.

New to certificates? Read how to read an ACORD 25, additional insured vs. certificate holder, and the waiver of subrogation guide. Still need the certificate? Use the COI request letter generator.

Common questions

What makes a certificate of insurance non-compliant?

The usual problems are limits below your contract minimums, a missing coverage line (often workers' comp or auto), additional insured or waiver of subrogation boxes left blank, no endorsement copies, a policy that expires before the job ends, and a named insured or certificate holder that doesn't match the contract.

Is a checked ADDL INSD box enough?

Usually not on its own. The ACORD 25 says it confers no rights on the certificate holder. The additional insured endorsement on the policy is what actually grants coverage, so ask for a copy and confirm it covers ongoing and, where needed, completed operations.

Can an umbrella policy make up for low general liability limits?

Often, if your contract allows it and the umbrella follows form over the general liability policy. Many contracts let a sub meet a total limit with primary plus umbrella. Check your contract wording, and ask your broker if you're unsure.

Who should I send the deficiency email to?

The insurance agent listed in the Producer box on the certificate, with the sub copied. The agent is the one who can issue a corrected certificate and send endorsement copies.

Is this checker free?

Yes, with no sign-up, and nothing you type leaves your browser. If you'd rather not review certificates and chase agents yourself, SubCover HQ does the collecting, checking, and follow-ups for $99/month.

General information, not insurance or legal advice. Your contracts, insurer, and broker set your actual requirements.