Hello Sue:

If I am understanding you correctly, I believe your post suggests that the certificate of insurance (C of I) showed valid coverage, so therefor, whomever examined it was mislead into believing coverage was in effect, when in reality it was cancelled immediately before work started. If this is indeed the case, there are multiple ways to have avoided this, which I have addressed in an article which is scheduled to appear in a publication other than Habitat. However, with respect to your immediate problem I do have the following questions;

1) Is this a Worker's Comp policy or a General Liability Policy?
2) Is there a claim for damages or injuries to be made?

Once I have a little more information, I can guide you accordingly.

Margaret Bernato
askthepropertymanager.com