INSURANCE GUIDE
Insurance Cover Notes and Certificates UK
What cover notes and certificates of insurance are, when they are needed, and how to obtain them.
TL;DR
- A cover note is temporary proof of insurance issued while the full policy documents are prepared.
- A certificate of insurance is a formal document confirming the existence and key terms of a policy.
- Employers liability certificates must be displayed or accessible to employees at all times.
- Third parties such as clients, venues, and licensing bodies request certificates to verify cover before entering contracts.
What Is a Cover Note?
A cover note is a temporary insurance document issued to confirm that cover is in place while the full policy documents are being prepared. Historically used in motor insurance to allow a vehicle to be driven immediately after purchase, cover notes are now less common as electronic insurance databases allow immediate verification. In commercial insurance, a cover note may be issued at inception while the insurer finalises the full policy wording and schedule.
What Is a Certificate of Insurance?
A certificate of insurance is a formal document issued by an insurer confirming the existence of an insurance policy. It typically sets out: the policyholder name; the insurer name; the policy number; the type of cover; the policy limit; the policy period; and any specific conditions. Certificates are used by third parties - clients, venues, licensing bodies, main contractors - to verify that the relevant cover is in place before entering a contract or granting access.
Employers Liability Certificate Requirements
Employers who hold employers liability insurance are legally required to display the certificate of insurance at each place of business or make it accessible to employees electronically under the Employers Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Regulations 1998. The certificate must show the name of the insurer, the policy number, and the period of cover. Failure to display or make available the certificate can result in HSE enforcement action separate from the underlying insurance requirement.
Additional Insured Endorsements
Some contracts require the policyholder to add the contract counterparty as an additional insured on their policy. An additional insured has the right to make claims directly under the policy. This is common in construction subcontracts, where the main contractor requires subcontractors to add them to their public liability policy. The certificate issued to the additional insured confirms their status. Adding an additional insured typically requires an endorsement from the insurer and may incur a small additional premium.
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Disclaimer
This guide is for general information only and does not constitute financial or insurance advice. Kaeltripton.com is not regulated by the FCA. Always read policy documents in full before purchasing cover.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can I get a certificate of insurance?
Most insurers and brokers can issue a certificate of insurance electronically within one business day of the policy being placed. In urgent situations - where a contract requires proof of insurance before work begins - many can issue same-day. If you need a certificate urgently, contact your insurer or broker directly rather than waiting for it to arrive by post.
Can I send a certificate of insurance instead of a copy of the full policy?
Yes, in most commercial situations. Third parties requesting proof of insurance typically need confirmation of the policyholder, insurer, type of cover, limit, and period - all of which appear on the certificate. The full policy wording is a confidential document between the insurer and the policyholder. Certificates are the standard mechanism for evidencing cover to third parties.
