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Subcontractor's COI Expired? What to Do Next

By SubCover HQ · Updated Oct 29, 2026 · 2 min read

You open a sub's file and the general liability policy expired last week. They're still on site. It happens constantly, and it's rarely because the sub dropped coverage. Most of the time the policy renewed and nobody sent you the new certificate. But you can't assume that. Here's a practical playbook.

Why an expired COI matters

A certificate only shows that policies existed on the day it was issued. Once the expiration date passes, you have no evidence the sub is insured. If something happens on the job in that window and the policy really lapsed, there may be no coverage for the sub's work. Then the claim can roll toward you and your own policy. Many contracts also require you to have current certificates before paying a sub.

Step 1: Contact the agent, not just the sub

The producer listed on the old certificate can usually issue a renewal certificate the same day. Email them directly, copy the sub, and ask for an updated certificate showing the renewed policy dates, with the same certificate holder, additional insured, and waiver wording as before. Agents tend to respond faster than subs, and they're the ones who can actually issue it. Our COI request letter generator drafts this email.

Step 2: Decide what happens on site in the meantime

This is a business decision you should make in advance, ideally in your subcontract or vendor agreement. Common policies:

• Work continues for a short grace period (for example, a few business days) while the renewal certificate is requested.
• No new work orders or mobilization until a current certificate is on file.
• Payments are held until compliance is restored, if your contract allows it.

Whatever you choose, apply it consistently and put it in writing so it doesn't feel personal to the sub.

Step 3: Review the new certificate, don't just file it

Renewals are when things change quietly: a new insurer, lower limits, a different named insured, or endorsements that didn't carry over. Check it the same way you'd check a brand-new sub's certificate. The free COI compliance checker compares a certificate against your requirements and lists any gaps.

Step 4: If the policy really lapsed

If the agent tells you coverage lapsed or was canceled, take it seriously. Stop the sub's work until they show new coverage, document the dates, and talk to your own insurance professional about any work performed during the gap. Don't backdate anything or accept a certificate showing dates you can't verify with the agent.

Step 5: Make sure it doesn't happen again

• Track every policy's expiration date separately. GL, auto, umbrella, and workers' comp often renew on different days.
• Request renewal certificates 30 days before expiration, then follow up at 14 and 7 days.
• Save the agent's contact info for every sub, so renewals go straight to the person who can issue them.
• Use a COI tracking spreadsheet or the free expiration tracker to see what's coming up.

Or hand the whole loop to SubCover HQ: we track every expiration date, chase the agents before policies lapse, and flag anything that comes back wrong.

This guide is general information, not insurance or legal advice. Your contracts, insurance professional, and attorney determine what you should require.