The certificate should match the subcontractor or entity you are actually hiring and paying.
Business checklist
Subcontractor COI Checklist
Before a subcontractor steps onto the job, make sure their certificate tells the same story the contract does. This checklist helps you spot the basics, the missing pieces, and the “send this to CanDo” moments.
Quick note: this does not confirm coverage, approve a subcontractor, or replace contract/legal review. It is a practical checklist to help you know what to request and what to forward to CanDo.
Build the checklist
What does the job require?
Choose anything that applies. Nothing is required. The goal is to build a quick review list you can use before a sub starts work.
Your checklist
What to check first
Make sure the certificate is active for the time they will be working on your job.
Look for liability limits and confirm they appear to meet the job or contract requirement.
If they have employees or are required to carry workers comp, make sure workers comp appears on the certificate.
Red flags
Three things worth slowing down for
No workers comp shown
If a subcontractor cannot prove workers comp coverage, it may create risk for both claims and your future workers comp audit.
Special wording in the contract
Additional insured, primary and noncontributory, and waiver wording may require endorsements. A certificate alone may not be enough.
Expired or mismatched certificate
An old certificate, wrong business name, wrong job, or wrong certificate holder can create problems when you need proof later.
Not sure if the certificate is enough?
Forward the COI, job requirement, or contract wording to CanDo before the subcontractor starts. We’ll help you spot what may need a closer look.