CG 20 10 vs CG 20 37: what's the difference?
CG 20 10 and CG 20 37 are standard ISO additional insured endorsements for commercial general liability policies. The short version: CG 20 10 protects you while the work is being done, and CG 20 37 protects you after the work is finished. Construction contracts frequently require both.
By Abdul Moeed, Founder & CEO · Updated
Side by side
| CG 20 10 | CG 20 37 | |
|---|---|---|
| Covers | Ongoing operations | Completed operations |
| When claims arise | While the subcontractor is working on the project | After the work is finished and put to use |
| Typical example | A passer-by is hurt by falling material during framing | A balcony built by the sub fails a year after handover |
| Usually required by | GCs, owners, property managers | GCs and owners on construction projects |
Why general contractors ask for both
Many construction defect and injury claims surface after a project is complete. If you only have CG 20 10, your additional insured protection may end when the subcontractor's work ends. CG 20 37 extends protection into the completed operations period, which matters most for structural, roofing, waterproofing and similar trades.
Edition dates matter
ISO has revised these forms several times, and the edition date printed on the endorsement (for example 04 13 or 12 19) changes the wording. Later editions limit coverage to the extent required by your contract and to claims caused, in whole or in part, by the subcontractor. Some contracts specify an edition; if yours does, check it.
Blanket versions
Instead of naming you on a schedule, many policies use blanket endorsements (such as CG 20 38 or CG 20 40, or carrier-specific forms) that automatically include anyone the insured agreed in writing to add. These are common and acceptable for many contracts, but confirm the trigger wording matches your subcontract.
How to check what you received
- Ask for the actual endorsement pages, not just the ACORD 25.
- Read the form number and edition in the footer of each page.
- Confirm both ongoing and completed operations are covered if your contract requires both.
- Store the endorsements with the certificate so the next reviewer sees them too.
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Related reading
General information only — not legal or insurance advice. Confirm requirements with your broker or attorney.