Contractors
Back to ContractorsWorkers’ Compensation for Contractors
Construction is physical work, and injuries like a fall from a ladder or roof, a back strain from lifting materials or a cut from a saw can happen on any job. New York law requires most employers to carry workers’ compensation, and general contractors and property owners often ask for proof before you start. The right policy helps take care of your crew and protects your business from the cost of a work injury.
What It Covers
Medical Care
Helps pay for treatment after a work injury, such as a worker who falls from a ladder, gets a shock while wiring a panel or injures a hand on a table saw.
Lost Wages
Provides partial wage replacement while an injured worker cannot work, or can only do light duty, during recovery.
Occupational Illness
Can cover conditions that develop over time because of the job, such as hearing loss or back and joint injuries from repetitive lifting, depending on the claim.
Employer’s Liability
Helps protect your business if it is sued in connection with an employee’s work injury, including defense costs, subject to your policy terms. On New York jobs, these claims sometimes reach the employer through lawsuits against owners or general contractors.
Who Needs It
- Contractors with any employees, including part-time workers and helpers.
- Subcontractors who need a workers’ compensation certificate to work for a general contractor.
- General contractors who hire subcontractors and want to avoid paying for uninsured subs at audit.
Optional Coverages
- Waiver of SubrogationOften required in construction contracts, this endorsement limits the carrier’s right to recover claim costs from the general contractor or owner named in the agreement.
- Other States CoverageCan extend protection when your crew temporarily takes jobs in states other than New York, such as nearby New Jersey or Connecticut.
- Coverage for OwnersDepending on how your business is set up, owners and officers may be included or excluded. Including yourself can help cover your own injuries on the job.
Working with us
How We Help
- 1
Tell Us What You Need
Share a few details about you, your property or your business. It only takes a few minutes, online or by phone.
- 2
We Shop the Market
As an independent brokerage, we compare options from multiple top-rated carriers to find the right fit.
- 3
Review and Get Covered
We walk you through your options in plain language, answer your questions and help you choose with confidence.
Frequently asked questions
Common Questions
I work alone with no employees. Do I need workers’ compensation?
It depends on how your business is set up and who you hire. A sole owner without employees may not be required to carry it, but many general contractors still ask for proof of coverage or of an exemption before you can work on their jobs. Hiring even one helper can change the requirement, so talk with an agent before you start.
Do I need to collect certificates from my subcontractors?
Yes, it is a good practice. If a subcontractor does not carry their own workers’ compensation, the carrier may count their workers as your employees at audit, which can increase your premium, and your business could be held responsible if one of them is hurt. Collect current certificates before they start and keep them on file.
Why does my trade affect the price of workers’ compensation?
Premiums are typically based on payroll and the job classification for each type of work. Classifications with more frequent or severe injuries, such as roofing and other work at heights, usually carry higher rates. Reporting each employee under the correct classification and keeping a good safety record can help keep your cost accurate over time.
Ready to Get Started?
Get a personalized Workers’ Compensation quote or speak with one of our experienced agents.