INSURANCE GUIDE
Additional Insured vs. Certificate Holder
A certificate holder and an additional insured are not the same thing. Understanding the difference helps businesses respond correctly to insurance requirements in leases and contracts.
Quick answer
A certificate holder receives evidence of insurance through a certificate. An additional insured is a party that may receive certain rights under the policy when the required endorsement or policy wording actually provides that status.
Why contracts create confusion
Contracts often ask for a certificate, additional insured status, waiver of subrogation, primary and noncontributory wording, or specific limits. These are separate requirements and should be reviewed individually.
What a certificate does
A certificate of insurance summarizes certain policy information. It does not by itself amend the policy or create coverage that is not provided by the policy and endorsements.
What additional insured means
Additional insured status depends on the policy wording or endorsement. The scope can vary by relationship, operations, completed work, contract language, and insurer form.
What to send your broker
Provide the complete insurance requirement or contract section, the certificate holder’s legal name and address, project or location details, and any requested endorsement wording.
Related resources
Coverage note: Insurance coverage varies by insurer, policy form, endorsement, limits, exclusions, and the facts of a claim. This article is general educational information and is not a substitute for reviewing the actual policy.
In this guide
- Certificate holder
- Additional insured
- Endorsements
- Contract requirements
Related coverage
Questions about this coverage?
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