Risk management
The real cost of a lapsed subcontractor COI — and what happens when an incident hits before you noticed it expired.
An expired COI can turn a normal claim into a costly fight over coverage, records, and responsibility.
The gap is predictable
Most COIs expire on known dates. The risk grows when those dates sit in a spreadsheet or inbox with no reminder process.
The incident gets expensive fast
After an injury or property loss, the GC may face insurer questions, legal fees, project delay, and pressure to prove what was collected and when.
The fix is boring on purpose
Track expiration dates, send renewal reminders, and keep every document review in the vendor record. Boring systems prevent expensive surprises.
Prevent the lapse
- Collect the COI before work starts.
- Record the expiration date.
- Remind the sub before renewal.
- Block work when proof is missing.