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The insurance certificate, also known as a "COI", is a fundamental component of today's production environment. For most producers, photographers, and freelancers in our industry, COI's are widely viewed as an inherent function of the job and required on just about every shoot. Yet they still create confusion: What exactly are they? Why are they required? And how can you make sure they are issued accurately and one time?

For more than 50 years, TCP Insurance has proudly served the entertainment industry, working alongside production companies, rental houses, photographers, studio facilities, stylists, and many other creative professions. Our industry expertise and commitment to education is where our value is truly realized. Let's get started by taking a closer look at the basics.

What Exactly Is a Certificate of Insurance?

A COI is a document that verifies the existence of an active insurance policy. It typically outlines:

• Named Insured | Example: John Smith Productions, LLC (Policyholder)
• Type(s) of Coverage | Example: General Liability, Workers Compensation, Misc Rented Equipment
• Policy limits | Example: $2,000,000 Occurrence / $4,000,000 Aggregate
• Policy effective dates | Example: 01/13/2026 - 01/13/2027
• Special Wording, if applicable | Example: Additional Insured, Loss Payee, Waiver of Subrogation, etc
• Endorsements required for the job, if applicable | Example: Additional Insured endorsement
• Certificate Holder | Example: XYZ Camera Rental (Vendor)

Why Are They Required?

Productions typically involve renting high value assets amongst multiple vendors. Insurance certificates not only serve as proof that adequate coverage exists, but also as a practical means to mitigate/transfer unwanted risk. When naming a location, client, or rental house as an "Additional Insured", you are extending the protection afforded through your insurance policy directly to the vendor. Bear in mind, this protection is limited to the insurable interest specified in the contract/rental agreement. If those terms are not made clear in the agreement, we advise you to consult with an entertainment insurance professional for further clarification.

How to Request a COI (and Avoid Delays)

If you already have an entertainment insurance policy, requesting a COI should be cinch! Most entertainment insurance agencies offer an online certificate portal that allows you to create and issue insurance certificates from your desktop or mobile. Keep in mind, this feature is limited to Additional Insured/Loss Payee wording. Your insurance broker will need to issue the certificate should any of the following apply:

    1) Special wording: Waiver of Subrogation, Primary & Non-Contributory, etc
    2) Endorsements: Additional Insured Endorsement (CG 20 026)

Need a COI or Have a Question?

Whether you're seeking a last-minute COI for a next-day shoot, or exploring a long-term solution for the year ahead, we can help. We offer both annual and short-term insurance solutions for a variety of creative business types, including DICE Production, Photography, Cinematography, Rental Houses, Studio Rental Facilities, Artist Management Agencies, Wardrobe/Prop Stylists, Event Producers, DIT, Post Production, and so much more.

Reach out to us at [email protected] or 1-800-726-3701 to get a quote and explore your options. We hope to hear from you soon!

Learn more at www.tcpinsurance.com | [email protected]