How to Get a Certificate of Insurance (COI) Fast in DFW: A Contractor’s Guide

Are you frustrated with your insurance provider taking forever to send you a Certificate of Insurance (COI)? You’re not alone. In the fast-paced world of construction, especially here in Mansfield, Fort Worth, and the greater Dallas-Fort Worth area, delays in documentation can cost you time, money, and credibility.

At McKnight Insurance Services, we understand how important it is to get COIs out quickly—often within just a couple of hours. Whether your client requires it or not, having a COI in hand shows that you’re professional, prepared, and ready to get to work.

Let’s break down everything contractors need to know about getting a COI fast in DFW—and why it matters.

What Is a Certificate of Insurance (COI)?

A COI is a one-page summary of your insurance coverage. It’s not a policy—it’s proof that you have active insurance, including:

• General liability
• Commercial auto
• Workers’ comp (if applicable)
• Policy limits and coverage details

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It also lists the certificate holder—usually your client or a general contractor requiring proof of insurance before you can start the job.

Why Contractors in DFW Need Fast COIs

In the construction industry, jobs often move fast. You might get a call today to start a job tomorrow. But if your insurance provider drags their feet, you’re stuck waiting… and potentially losing the contract.

Here’s why fast COIs matter:

1. They Help You Start Jobs Faster

Most job sites in Fort Worth, Arlington, or Mansfield will not allow contractors to begin work without a valid COI. Speed is everything.

2. They Make You Look More Credible

Even when not strictly required, having a COI shows clients that you’re insured and serious. It builds trust and can help you win more bids.

3. They Keep You Compliant

Some cities and GCs in the DFW area require specific limits or endorsements (like additional insured status or waiver of subrogation). A quick turnaround helps you meet their demands on time.

4. They Avoid Payment Delays

Some contractors can’t get paid until they provide a COI to the client or property manager. Don’t let slow paperwork hold up your cash flow.

Common COI Issues (and How We Avoid Them)

Too often, contractors get burned by:

• Insurance agents who take 24–72 hours to process COI requests
• Wrong certificate holder names or incomplete coverage listed
• Delays in getting required endorsements added

At McKnight Insurance, we make the COI process simple, fast, and accurate:

• Most COIs delivered within 2 hours
• Email, text, or portal delivery options
• Same-day processing for special requests (e.g., additional insured or waivers)

How to Request a COI from McKnight Insurance

We’ve streamlined the request process for busy contractors. Here’s how it works:

1. Call or email your account manager
2. Tell us who the certificate holder is and what they require (we can help with this!)
3. We send the completed COI to you or directly to your client—usually within a couple of hours

No red tape. No waiting days. Just fast, local service from a team that knows construction.

What Should Be on Your COI?

Depending on the job, you may need specific details added, like:

• Additional insured endorsements
• Primary and non-contributory wording
• Waiver of subrogation
• Project name and job site address

We make sure every certificate meets the exact requirements of your client, GC, or municipal authority—so you can stay focused on the job, not the paperwork.

Why Contractors Across DFW Trust McKnight Insurance

We’re not just fast—we’re thorough. We work with:

• General contractors
• Subcontractors (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, roofing, and more)
• Builders and developers
• Small construction firms with multiple vehicles and employees

And we’ve built relationships with local businesses throughout Mansfield, Fort Worth, Arlington, and across DFW. We understand what local job sites require and how to deliver exactly what you need, fast.

Are you frustrated with your insurance? Get the service you deserve. Contact McKnight Insurance to get your COIs fast and keep your jobs on track.

Speak with a local agent today—we’re here to help.