Master Certificate

Overview

A Master Certificate is a single COI document that applies to all projects or locations where a vendor works for a particular certificate holder. Instead of issuing separate certificates for each property, the vendor's broker issues one master certificate covering the entire relationship. This simplifies administration for both the vendor and the certificate holder.

When It Is Used

Master certificates are common when a single vendor provides services across many properties — for example, a janitorial company serving 50 buildings for the same management company. Rather than producing 50 individual certificates, one master certificate covers all locations. The Description of Operations typically reads "All locations and projects as required by written contract."

Compliance Considerations

While master certificates reduce paperwork, they require careful verification. Ensure the master certificate includes project-specific provisions where required (like Per-Project Aggregate endorsements). Also verify that the certificate holder entity name matches the contracting entity for all locations covered. Some risk managers prefer individual certificates because they provide clearer project-specific documentation.