CG 20 37 Explained: Additional Insured Status for Completed Operations
The CG 20 37, particularly the latest version CG 20 37 12/19, is a crucial additional insured endorsement form often requested by project owners and general contractors in the insurance industry. This CG 20 37 endorsement, part of the family of additional insured forms developed by ISO Properties, grants additional insured status for completed operations under commercial general liability insurance policies. It can offer financial protection to entities that need coverage after construction activities have ended. Without the CG 2037 iso form endorsement, additional insured parties may be left unprotected in situations tied to work completed in the past, even after policy expiration.
The Key Functions of CG 20 37
The form CG 2037 provides coverage for liability claims that might arise once a project is done. Traditional additional insured endorsements, like the ongoing operations endorsement form CG 20 10, typically address active work. The completed operations endorsement form CG2037 deals with liability from issues that emerge later, delivering an extended reporting period or tail coverage. Notable points of the CG 2037 endorsement include:
- Coverage often applies to bodily injury or property damage that appears after project completion.
- It protects third-party stakeholders if disputes surface over completed work.
- It includes language acknowledging the project’s end but extends insurance coverage for claims linked to that work.
Main Distinctions from CG 20 10
CG 20 10, serving as an ongoing operations endorsement form, focuses on active work phases. CG20 37 picks up where CG 20 10 stops and is particularly valuable for construction defect claims. The CG 2010 and CG 20 37 forms work together to deliver thorough insurance coverage. When a claim involves a completed project, CG20 37 usually responds. Claims can arise years after a final inspection if there’s an alleged defect in workmanship or design. Having the CG2037 endorsement helps address questions about the additional insured’s coverage after the project concludes, even beyond the policy expiration date
Real-World Example
A contractor finishes work on a warehouse roofing system. Two years later, a leak results in interior damage. The owner sues both the contractor and the additional insured entity, claiming that the workmanship was inadequate. If CG2037 12/19 was part of the policy, the additional insured could file a claim under the contractor’s general liability insurance policy. The endorsement’s completed operations provision may cover defense and damages, depending on the policy’s terms and the products-completed operations hazard outlined in the declarations. This shows why the latest CG2037 endorsement can be so important.
Common Oversights
- Missing Endorsement Language
Certain insurance policies exclude completed operations coverage for additional insureds. Confirm that CG2037 is attached rather than just CG 20 10. Insurance providers should clearly note both CG 20 10 and CG 20 37 forms in the policy schedule. Some earlier forms, such as CG 20 37 07 04 or CG 20 37 04 13, might differ in wording, so it’s wise to confirm which version is used. - Policy Limits
Coverage can be used up quickly on large projects. Check the insurance policy’s limits in light of the project’s scope—this step aids in risk mitigation. Include a review of premiums and any retroactive date that could apply, especially if the policy uses older versions like CG2037 10 01. - Contractual Requirements
Construction contracts frequently state that additional insured status continues for a certain timeframe after completion. Without CG2037, the policy may fall short of those contractual compliance terms, especially for lessees who need coverage beyond the initial period. Versions such as CG2037 form 07/04 can affect these requirements, so understanding each form is vital.
Best Practices
- Request the Correct Endorsement
CG2037, rather than only CG 20 10, is necessary if completed operations coverage is required. Always obtain the additional insured endorsement PDF to confirm coverage. Specify the CG 20 37 12/19 version for the most current protection.
- Review the Policy Form
Make sure the language grants coverage for the full length of time required by the agreement, including any extended reporting period provisions. This step is particularly important when older endorsements, like CG 2037 07 04 or CG 20 37 04 13, are in play. - Document the Scope
Keep thorough records of contract obligations and endorsements for proper risk mitigation. Retaining copies of the ACORD 37 form can also help document additional insured status. - Communicate with Carriers
Request endorsements in writing, especially if project owners or general contractors want them. This process helps ensure financial protection and contractual compliance. Clarify which CG2037 endorsement applies, whether it’s CG2037 12 19 or an earlier form like CG2037 10 01
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | CG 20 10 (Ongoing) | CG 20 37 (Completed) |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage Trigger | During active work | After project wrap-up |
| Typical Claim Example | Injury at jobsite | Damage from a latent defect |
| Contract Requirements | Basic requirement | Often needed post-completion |
| Primary Purpose | Protect additional insureds | Extend protection after completion |
Wrap-Up
The CG 20 37 endorsement—especially the CG 20 37 12/19 version—plays a major role for anyone seeking coverage after a project is done. It addresses gaps left by endorsements that focus on active construction. If liability claims occur months or years later, the completed operations coverage can be a decisive factor in a risk management strategy for contractors and additional insureds alike. Knowing how the CG 20 37 iso form works, including its interplay with policy expiration and extended reporting periods, is vital for all-around insurance protection. Whether you’re using the latest version or older forms like CG 20 37 07 04 or CG 20 37 04 13, having the proper endorsement is a must for long-term protection in the construction industry.
