If you’re leasing a lot from a shopping center, church, or private landowner, the answer is almost always yes — and you’ll usually need it before you’re handed a key or a gate code.
What a COI actually is
A certificate of insurance is a one-page summary showing that a policy is active, what type of coverage it is, and what limits apply. It’s not the policy itself — it’s proof the policy exists, issued directly by the insurer or its agent so the landlord doesn’t have to take your word for it.
Why landlords ask for one
If someone trips over a tree stand or twists an ankle on uneven ground near your patch, the landlord wants to know your policy responds first, not theirs. A COI is how they confirm that before day one, not after an incident happens.
Additional insured vs. certificate holder
These get confused constantly. A certificate holder just receives a copy of the COI — usually the landlord, so they have it on file. Additional insured status goes further: it extends part of your liability coverage to protect the landlord too, for claims arising out of your operation on their property. Read more in the additional insured guide.
When to request one
As soon as you know the address. Requesting a COI is quick once a policy is bound, but it can’t happen before the policy exists — so if a landlord wants proof of coverage two weeks before you can move onto the lot, get the application in early rather than waiting for a final signed lease.
Related: 7 things landlords typically require