Waiver of subrogation on a COI: how to check it on an ACORD 25
A waiver of subrogation keeps a sub’s insurer from coming after you once it pays a claim. GCs require it in most subcontracts, and it is one of the easiest items to miss on a certificate. Here is where it shows on an ACORD 25 and what to check. This is general information, not insurance or legal advice.
Start with the subcontract
Blanket waiver endorsements usually apply only when a written contract requires the waiver. So the subcontract should say which policies need it, and for whose benefit, before you check any COI.
What to check on the ACORD 25
SUBR WVD column
Each policy row on an ACORD 25 has a SUBR WVD box. A Y means the agent says a waiver applies to that policy. Check it on every line your contract requires, not just GL.
Description of Operations wording
Look for language that names your company (and the owner, if required) and says waiver of subrogation applies, ideally tied to the project or to a written contract.
General liability
Usually granted by a blanket waiver endorsement (for example CG 24 04) or a scheduled one. Blanket forms typically apply only when a written contract requires the waiver.
Workers’ compensation
Needs its own waiver endorsement on the WC policy. It is the line most often missed, and some states restrict or charge for it.
Commercial auto and umbrella
Many subcontracts require the waiver on auto and umbrella too. Each policy carries its own endorsement.
Endorsement copies
A COI is information only. Many GCs ask for the actual waiver endorsement pages alongside the certificate.
Common waiver gaps on sub COIs
- SUBR WVD checked on GL but blank on workers’ comp
- Y in the box but no waiver wording in Description of Operations
- Waiver names the sub’s other client, not your company
- Owner missing when the contract requires a waiver in its favor too
- Umbrella or auto row left blank
- Policy expiring before the job ends
How GateCOI enforces your requirements
Enter your requirements once per project. Subs email their ACORD 25 to verify@gatecoi.com — no login. GateCOI checks each certificate, tells the sub exactly what is missing, chases the broker, warns before expirations, and gives your bookkeeper a Cleared for Payment list before check runs.
Frequently asked questions
What is a waiver of subrogation on a certificate of insurance?+
It means the sub’s insurer has agreed not to sue you to recover what it paid on a claim the sub’s policy covered. On an ACORD 25 it shows as a Y in the SUBR WVD column and is often described in the Description of Operations box.
Is a Y in the SUBR WVD box enough?+
It is a good first check, but the certificate is information only. The waiver comes from an endorsement on the policy, so many GCs also ask for a copy of that endorsement.
Which policies should have a waiver of subrogation?+
Whatever your subcontract requires. Commonly that is general liability, workers’ compensation, commercial auto, and umbrella. Ask your broker what fits your contracts.
Why is the workers’ comp waiver often missing?+
It needs a separate endorsement on the WC policy, some states limit it, and some carriers charge for it. That makes it the most common waiver gap on sub COIs.
Can GateCOI check waiver of subrogation on COIs?+
Yes. You set which policies need a waiver per project. Subs email ACORD 25 PDFs to verify@gatecoi.com; GateCOI checks the SUBR WVD column and wording, replies pass/fail with what is missing, chases the broker, and keeps a Cleared for Payment list. It costs $59/mo flat. It is a document check, not insurance advice.
Set your rules once. Let GateCOI check every COI.
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