Construction & Contractors Workers' Comp
Workers' Comp Built for Contractors
Competitive rates for general contractors, subs, and specialty trades. Certificates issued fast. Licensed in 23 states.
Workers' Compensation for Construction & Contractors
Workers' compensation insurance for contractors is a legally required policy that covers medical expenses, lost wages, and disability benefits for construction workers injured on the job, including injuries from falls, electrocution, and equipment accidents. Construction is consistently the most dangerous industry for workplace injuries in the United States, with the highest fatality rate of any sector. Workers' comp rates for contractors vary dramatically by trade — clerical staff may cost $0.30 per $100 of payroll while roofers can exceed $15-$25 per $100. Whether you're a GC running a crew of 50 or a solo sub who needs a certificate of insurance to get on a job site, we get you covered fast with competitive rates from multiple carriers. California CSLB now requires workers' comp class codes on contractor license renewals.
Why Construction & Contractors Need Workers' Comp
- ! Required by law in virtually every state — no exceptions for construction
- ! General contractors require certificates of insurance from every sub
- ! Construction has the highest fatality rate of any industry
- ! California CSLB now requires class codes on contractor license renewals
- ! Protects your personal assets from employee injury lawsuits
Common Construction & Contractors Claims
- ⚠ Falls from ladders, scaffolding, and roofs
- ⚠ Struck-by injuries from falling tools and materials
- ⚠ Electrocution and electrical burns
- ⚠ Overexertion and back injuries from lifting
- ⚠ Power tool and equipment-related injuries
- ⚠ Trench collapses and excavation accidents
Workers' Comp Class Codes for Construction & Contractors
The correct class code determines your premium rate. We'll assign the right code for your state and operations.
| Code | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 5606 | Contractors — General | — |
| 5403 | Carpentry NOC | — |
| 5645 | Carpentry — Detached One or Two-Family Dwellings | — |
| 5651 | Carpentry — Dwellings Three Stories or Less | — |
| 5183 | Plumbing NOC & Drivers | — |
| 5190 | Electrical Wiring — Within Buildings | — |
| 5551 | Roofing — All Kinds | — |
| 5022 | Masonry NOC | — |
| 5213 | Concrete Construction NOC | — |
| 5491 | Painting or Paperhanging | — |
| 5537 | HVAC Systems — Installation, Service & Repair | — |
| 5445 | Wallboard or Sheetrock Installation | — |
| 5348 | Tile Work — Inside | — |
| 5437 | Carpentry — Cabinet Work or Interior Trim | — |
What Affects Your Construction & Contractors Workers' Comp Cost?
Trade classification — roofers pay significantly more than finish carpenters
Total annual payroll across all class codes
Experience modification rate (EMR)
Use of subcontractors and their insurance status
Claims history and safety programs
Height of work — above 15 feet increases rates
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does workers' comp cost for a contractor? +
Rates vary dramatically by trade. Clerical staff might be $0.30 per $100 of payroll, while roofers can be $15-$25+ per $100. A general contractor with $500,000 in payroll across multiple trades might pay $15,000-$40,000 annually. We shop 10+ carriers to get the best rate for your specific trades.
Do I need workers' comp if I'm a sole proprietor with no employees? +
In most states, sole proprietors can exempt themselves. However, many GCs and project owners won't let you on site without a workers' comp certificate. We can set up a policy covering just the owner — often called an "owner-only" or "ghost" policy — so you can stay on job sites.
What if my sub doesn't have workers' comp? +
If a subcontractor without coverage gets injured on your job, your policy may be responsible for their claim. This will increase your premiums and EMR. Always get certificates of insurance from subs before work begins.
How fast can I get a certificate of insurance? +
For straightforward risks, we can often have a policy bound and certificates issued within 24-48 hours. Rush requests are available for urgent job site needs.
What's an experience modification rate (EMR)? +
Your EMR compares your claims history to the industry average. A 1.00 is average. Below 1.00 means fewer claims than expected (lower premiums). Above 1.00 means more claims (higher premiums). We can help you develop strategies to lower your EMR over time.
Construction & Contractors Workers' Comp — Available in 23 States
We're licensed to provide workers' compensation quotes in the following states:
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