If you’re a 1099 contractor or freelancer, you already know how important it is to have a Certificate of Insurance (COI) ready to go.

But what happens if the COI you submit raises more questions than it answers?

As an expert in freelance insurance compliance, I’ve seen time and again how small COI mistakes can cost contractors big jobs—or delay payments by weeks. Here are the most common red flags clients watch for, and what you can do to make sure your COI is always client-ready.

🚩 1. Expired Policy Dates

Red flag: The COI shows a policy that’s already expired—or one that expires during the contract period.

Why it matters: Clients want to know you’re insured throughout the duration of the work. If your coverage ends too soon, they risk being unprotected.

✅ Fix it: Always check the Effective Date and Expiration Date. With Bunker, your COI is always updated in real-time and available for renewal reminders.

🚩 2. Missing Coverage Types

Red flag: Your COI only lists General Liability, but the client requires Professional Liability (Errors & Omissions) or Workers’ Comp.

Why it matters: Every industry carries different risks. A photographer might need E&O; a landscaper might need Workers’ Comp—even as a solo contractor.

✅ Fix it: Double-check your contract or request. If you’re unsure, Bunker’s dashboard helps you select the right policy for your field.

🚩 3. Incorrect Certificate Holder Information

Red flag: The client’s name or business address is wrong—or missing altogether.

Why it matters: Many clients require a custom COI naming them as the Certificate Holder. If it’s generic or inaccurate, it can signal carelessness or non-compliance.

✅ Fix it: When you request your COI with Bunker, you can enter your client’s info directly to generate a customized COI instantly.

🚩 4. Coverage Limits Below Contract Requirements

Red flag: Your policy only covers $500,000, but the client requires $1M per occurrence and $2M aggregate.

Why it matters: If your limits don’t meet the contract’s minimums, you can’t start the job—and might be seen as underinsured.

✅ Fix it: Read the insurance clause in your contract carefully. Need a policy upgrade? Bunker lets you adjust coverage limits before generating a COI.

🚩 5. Missing Additional Insured Endorsement

Red flag: The client asked to be added as an “Additional Insured,” but the COI doesn’t reflect that.

Why it matters: Clients want extended protection under your policy in case your work leads to a claim.

✅ Fix it: When generating a COI through Bunker, you can easily check the “Add Additional Insured” box. We’ll handle the rest.

🚩 6. Typos and Inconsistent Information

Red flag: Your name, business name, or address doesn’t match your contract—or has errors.

Why it matters: Inconsistent info can make a client doubt the validity of the policy or delay processing.

✅ Fix it: Always double-check your policy details and input fields. At Bunker, we auto-fill verified info to help you avoid human errors.

🧠 Final Thoughts: Your COI Should Build Trust, Not Doubt

A Certificate of Insurance isn’t just paperwork—it’s a trust-building tool. But if it’s incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate, it can do more harm than good.

At Bunker, we take the guesswork out of compliance. From auto-generated COIs to instant edits and client-specific documents, we’re here to make sure your COI helps you win contracts—not lose them.

👉 Need a COI that gets you hired, not held up?
Get covered and generate a bulletproof COI in minutes at buildbunker.com