Guides / Free tool
Certificate of Insurance Request Letter Generator
Fill in your details and the coverage you need. You'll get a ready-to-send COI request letter for your sub, vendor, or their insurance agent, with the limits, additional insured, primary and non-contributory, and waiver of subrogation wording spelled out so the first certificate you get back is the right one.
What a good COI request includes
- Exact minimum limits for each policy, so the agent doesn't send whatever is on file.
- Your exact certificate holder name and address, matching your legal entity.
- Endorsement requirements (additional insured, primary and non-contributory, waiver of subrogation) plus a request for the endorsement copies.
- A deadline tied to the start of work.
- A renewal instruction, so updated certificates arrive before the old ones expire.
Once certificates come back, check them with the free COI checklist, read additional insured vs. certificate holder, and log expiration dates in the free expiration tracker. Need trade-specific requirements? See COI requirements by trade.
Common questions
Who should I send a certificate of insurance request to?
Send it to the sub or vendor and ask them to forward it to their insurance agent, or send it to the agent directly if you have their email. The agent (the Producer box on the ACORD 25) is the one who actually issues the certificate.
Why ask for endorsements and not just the certificate?
The ACORD 25 itself says it confers no rights on the certificate holder. Additional insured status and waivers of subrogation come from endorsements to the policy, so asking for copies is the only way to confirm they exist.
What limits should I put in the letter?
It depends on the trade, the job, and what your own insurer or contract requires. Many contractors start at $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate for general liability. See our guide to insurance limits to require from subcontractors.
Is this letter generator free?
Yes. No sign-up, and nothing you type leaves your browser. If you'd rather not send and chase these yourself, SubCover HQ does the requesting, checking, and follow-ups for $99/month.
General information and a template, not insurance or legal advice. Match the requirements to your contracts and your insurer's guidance.
Done chasing certificates?
SubCover HQ collects, checks, and tracks your subs' and vendors' COIs for a flat $99/month. Cancel anytime.
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