A certificate of insurance is a document proving that an insured party has insurance coverage. Typically, a certificate of insurance is requested by the clients of the insured. Verification of insurance coverage is provided to third parties that an individual or entity has insurance coverage. If an individual hires a contractor to paint his house, that individual will call an insurance company and request a certificate of insurance. This document reassures the hirer
The certificate of insurance is not identical to the actual insurance policy, but it does contain important information that is also listed on the policy. The coverage offers the insured protection from any claims pertaining to liability. It is important to remember that, if and when someone files a claim against the insured for a particular incident, that incident must have taken place within the policy period. The policy period is the length of time the policyholder is provided insurance coverage.
There are different types of certificates of insurance: certificates of property insurance, general liability insurance certificates (these are typically issued when a claim is made against the insured), Workers’ compensation certificates, which are used to show evidence of an employee’s or contractor’s insurance coverage pertaining to work-related incidents. There are also certificates of insurance for automobile liability.
The insurance policy may provide liability coverage for damages caused by fire on the insured’s property. If the insured is deemed legally liable for the damages, they are then required to pay for the damages. Medical expenses to cover any injured parties who suffer injuries on the insured’s property may be provided by an insurance policy. Auto Insurance policies provide compensation for any injured third parties in the event of an injury suffered during an auto accident. If an insured is involved in a serious at-fault accident involving other parties and his or limits of liability are exhausted, excess liability coverage would kick in to cover medical care like hospital visits, etc. This kind of coverage must be purchased separately from general auto insurance coverage. It can be added as an endorsement on the policy. Having excess liability coverage is always a smart idea because it can protect an individual from suffering financial ruin.
The certificate of insurance should be very clear and specific in stating what is covered and should conform to the specific terms and conditions stated within the contract. This prevents any misunderstandings of coverage between the insurance company and the insured.