ACORD Certificate of Insurance
An ACORD Certificate of Insurance is a standardized form that provides proof of your restaurant's insurance coverage, showing policy limits, effective dates, and covered risks.
What You Need to Know
This is the document you'll email to landlords, event venues, or catering clients who need verification that you're properly insured. Think of it as your insurance "receipt" that proves you have coverage without sharing your entire policy.
Key features of the ACORD certificate:
- Shows your policy numbers and coverage types (general liability, property, workers comp)
- Lists coverage limits for each policy
- Displays policy effective dates and expiration dates
- Identifies the certificate holder (the party requesting proof of insurance)
- Notes any additional insured endorsements
Critical reminder: the certificate is proof of coverage, not the policy itself. It doesn't extend coverage or alter your policy terms — it simply verifies what coverage exists on the date it's issued.
Why It Matters for Restaurant Owners
You can't sign most commercial leases, cater events, or work with certain vendors without this certificate. The ACORD form is the industry standard, meaning landlords, venue managers, and corporate clients will specifically request it by name.
Common situations requiring certificates:
- Lease signing — landlords require proof of coverage before you move in
- Event catering — venues need certificates showing they're listed as additional insured
- Vendor contracts — food suppliers and equipment lessors often require proof of coverage
- License renewals — some jurisdictions require certificates for liquor license renewals
The certificate only reflects coverage that exists on the date it's issued. If your policy cancels or you reduce coverage, previously issued certificates don't keep that coverage in force. Ask your agent for certificates in advance — allow 24-48 hours for processing — and keep digital copies of everything you issue.
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