COI requirements by trade / Demolition
Demolition COI requirements
Demolition is one of the most heavily scrutinized trades by insurers. Many standard GL policies exclude it outright, so a generic certificate may not cover the work at all.
What makes demolition risky
- Collapse and damage to adjacent structures.
- Asbestos, lead, and other hazardous materials.
- Falling debris injuring workers and the public.
- Fire and utility damage.
Coverage to require on the certificate
| Coverage | What's common, and what to check |
|---|---|
| General liability | Higher limits are common; confirm demolition is a covered operation and not excluded. |
| Workers' compensation | Statutory, plus employers' liability. |
| Umbrella / excess | Commonly required, often $5M or more on larger jobs. |
| Pollution liability | Commonly required for asbestos and hazardous materials. |
| Commercial auto | Higher limits for haulers and roll-off trucks. |
On top of the coverage itself, most contracts also require additional insured status for you (and the owner, where applicable), a waiver of subrogation, and primary and noncontributory wording. Those come from endorsements, so ask for copies.
Red flags on demolition certificates
- A standard contractor GL policy with a demolition exclusion.
- No pollution coverage on buildings with suspected asbestos.
- Structural or explosive demolition in scope with no specific coverage.
Tip
Confirm in writing with the agent that demolition, and the specific type you're hiring for, is a covered operation on the GL policy.
Review checklist
- Insured name matches the company on your contract.
- Every coverage above that your contract requires is listed.
- Each limit meets your minimum.
- No policy expires before the job ends. Track each expiration date separately.
- ADDL INSD and SUBR WVD are marked, with endorsements on file.
- You've asked the agent about any demolition exclusions that matter.
New to reading certificates? Start with how to read an ACORD 25, grab the free COI checklist, or log dates in the free expiration tracker.
Common questions
What insurance should a demolition subcontractor carry?
Common requirements include general liability, workers' compensation, umbrella / excess, pollution liability, and commercial auto. Your contracts and broker set the actual minimums.
Are these limits required by law?
Generally no. Insurance requirements for subcontractors and vendors are set by your contracts, your own insurer, and any owner, lender, or public agency on the job. Workers' compensation requirements are set by state law. The figures here describe common practice only.
Does the ACORD 25 show exclusions?
Usually not. A certificate summarizes policy types, limits, and dates. Exclusions like height limits, residential work, or pollution are in the policy itself, so ask the agent directly when they matter for the trade.
Who should issue the certificate?
Ask the sub's insurance agent or broker to issue it, not the sub. Agents issue certificates daily and can send the endorsements at the same time.
Done chasing certificates?
SubCover HQ collects, checks, and tracks your subs' and vendors' COIs for a flat $99/month. Cancel anytime.
By subscribing you agree to the Terms.
COI requirements for other trades
RoofingElectricalPlumbingHVACLandscaping and tree servicePaintingConcrete and masonryFraming and carpentryDrywall and interior finishesExcavation and site workJanitorial and cleaningSnow removalPest control