Demolition has the hazards of construction plus unknowns inside the structure, such as hidden asbestos, lead or weakened members, so GCs usually ask for more than a certificate.
General liability and workers’ compensation at the limits your contract or owner requires, plus auto liability when the sub drives to site. Many GCs also ask for additional insured, waiver of subrogation, and primary & non-contributory endorsements.
A written safety program for demolition, including the pre-demolition engineering survey and hazard assessment OSHA describes, and OSHA training records.
An experience modification rate letter from the sub’s insurance agent or carrier, commonly requested on commercial and public work.
For most commercial, institutional and larger residential demolitions, the EPA asbestos rule requires a thorough inspection beforehand and notice to the delegated agency (often a state). Collect the survey and a copy of the notification when it applies.
For 1099 reporting before the first payment.
Many states and cities license demolition, wrecking or general contracting. Licensing rules are set by each state, and sometimes by the county or city, so check what applies where the job is.
Often requested for larger or commercial jobs, or before a first job with a new sub.
On public or bonded jobs, a bonding capacity letter and performance and payment bonds may be required, as the contract specifies.
Requirements vary by state, locality, owner and contract. This is a general starting point, not legal or insurance advice. Your contract and local rules decide what’s actually required.
SubSignoff records what documents say and whether they meet the requirements you set. It doesn’t confirm coverage with insurers or verify licenses with the state. Check licenses with the issuing agency; for some states SubSignoff links to the official lookup page.
Official public sources behind the documents and safety topics above. Rules differ by state and project; these links are for background, not legal or insurance advice.