A certificate of insurance, commonly abbreviated COI, is a one-page document issued by an insurer or agent that summarizes the key details of an active policy, including the coverage types, limits, effective dates, and named insured. It serves as proof that coverage is in force but does not itself alter the underlying policy or grant any rights beyond what the policy provides. Short-term rental hosts frequently request COIs from cleaners, maintenance vendors, and contractors to verify those parties carry their own liability coverage, and hosts may in turn be asked to provide a COI by property owners, homeowners associations, or platforms. A certificate can also list an additional insured or a certificate holder when a third party needs evidence of coverage. Hosts should confirm the certificate reflects current, adequate limits and consult a licensed insurance agent when specific requirements apply.
Why this matters for property managers
This document is what a platform, owner, or lender asks for as proof that coverage is real and current before they trust an operator with a booking or a contract. Producing it quickly can be the difference between winning a management account and losing it to a competitor. An expired or mismatched certificate, however, can void a claim or breach a contract term, so its dates and limits must actually match the exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I ask a vendor for a certificate of insurance?
Does a certificate of insurance provide coverage by itself?
Who might ask me for a COI as a host?
What is an additional insured on a COI?
← Back to Glossary
