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Compliance

Certificate of Insurance (COI)

A certificate of insurance (COI) is a one-page document proving a cleaning vendor carries valid liability and workers’ compensation coverage, naming policy limits and often the client as an additional insured.

Written by CleanQuote Editorial TeamReviewed by Facilities Operations Review BoardLast reviewed June 2026

In Depth

Buyers request a COI before work begins to confirm coverage for property damage, injuries, and employee claims. The client is frequently added as an "additional insured" so the vendor’s policy responds first to covered incidents on site.

Why It Matters

Hiring an uninsured cleaner exposes the building owner to liability for on-site injuries and damage. A current COI is a baseline vendor-vetting requirement.

Related Terms

Service Level AgreementScope of WorkOSHA Compliance

Related Resources

How to Hire a Commercial Cleaning CompanyCommercial Cleaning FAQ: Vendors

Frequently Asked

What is certificate of insurance in commercial cleaning?

A certificate of insurance (COI) is a one-page document proving a cleaning vendor carries valid liability and workers’ compensation coverage, naming policy limits and often the client as an additional insured.

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Expert explanation

Making decisions with "Certificate of Insurance"

Knowing the definition is the start. Here's how the term fits into a real buying decision.

Research Confidence

Developing

Based on

  • Original insight

Synthesized from 3 cited sources.

  1. What?

    What does "Certificate of Insurance" mean?

    A certificate of insurance (COI) is a one-page document proving a cleaning vendor carries valid liability and workers’ compensation coverage, naming policy limits and often the client as an additional insured.

  2. Why?

    Why does it matter to buyers?

    Hiring an uninsured cleaner exposes the building owner to liability for on-site injuries and damage. A current COI is a baseline vendor-vetting requirement.

  3. How do I evaluate?

    How should I use this when evaluating vendors?

    Bring the term into your RFP and walkthrough questions so proposals are directly comparable — vague answers here are an early warning sign.
    See what to include in an RFP

  4. What's next?

    What's next?

    Once you know the language, put a number on your specific facility and collect comparable bids.
    Get 3 quotes in 24 hours

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