Why do I need a Certificate of Insurance from my contractor?

A Certificate of Insurance (COI) proves the contractor's general liability and workers' comp policies are active on the day work starts. Without one, you have no recourse if a worker is injured on your property or a subcontractor damages your home — claims fall back on your homeowner's policy.

Always require the COI directly from the insurance broker, not the contractor, and ask to be listed as the certificate holder so you're notified if the policy lapses mid-project.