What is a certificate of insurance and why does a client want one?
A certificate of insurance is a one-page proof that your business carries certain coverage. Clients, landlords, and general contractors request it before letting you start work or sign a lease. It summarizes your policy; it does not change it.
The request usually includes specific limits and sometimes asks to be named as 'additional insured.' Send the exact wording you were given so the certificate matches the requirement. The office can issue it correctly the first time, which keeps the job or lease moving.
What is the difference between general liability and commercial auto?
General liability covers claims like a customer injury or property damage from your work. Commercial auto covers vehicles used for the business. They are separate policies because driving risk and operating risk are different exposures.
Many owners assume a personal auto policy covers business driving — it often does not, especially for deliveries, hauling tools, or employee drivers. The office can sort out which vehicles and activities belong on commercial auto versus general liability.
Does my personal auto policy cover business use in Houston?
Usually not fully. Personal auto policies often limit or exclude business use — like making deliveries, driving between jobsites, or carrying tools and equipment for work. Regular business use typically needs a commercial auto policy.
The gap tends to surface after a claim, which is the worst time to learn about it. If a vehicle is used for work in any regular way, the office can explain whether commercial auto is the right fit and what a lienholder or client may require.
What insurance does a contractor in Houston usually need?
It varies by trade, but contractors commonly carry general liability, commercial auto for work vehicles, and coverage for tools and equipment. Clients and general contractors often require specific limits before work begins.
The right mix depends on the work, the crew, subcontractors, and what each contract demands. The office starts from how the business actually runs — what travels to the jobsite, who drives, and which certificate is forcing the question this week.
How fast can I get a certificate of insurance for a job?
Often the same day, once your policy is in place and the exact requirement is confirmed. The delay is usually matching the certificate to the client's wording — limits, additional-insured status, and project details — not issuing the document.
Send the contract clause or vendor request exactly as you received it. The office can match the certificate to what is being asked, so a customer, landlord, or general contractor does not bounce it back and hold up the work.