Florida plumbing contractors need workers' comp that covers their full range of operations. Here's how to compare carriers and find the right coverage for your plumbing business.
Plumbing Workers Comp Class Codes in Florida
Plumbing work in Florida is classified under NCCI code 5183 (Plumbing — not otherwise classified) for most residential and commercial plumbing installation and repair. The base rate for code 5183 in Florida is $2.737 per $100 of payroll. Plumbing contractors who also perform gas fitting work may have employees classified under 5183 or a separate gas fitter code depending on the nature of the work.
Plumbing contractors who perform sewer and drain cleaning, water main installation, or underground utility work may have some employees classified under higher-rated codes such as 6319 (Sewer Construction) or 6306 (Irrigation or Drainage System Construction). Proper classification of all operations is essential to avoid audit surprises.
What Carriers Write Plumbing Workers Comp in Florida?
The plumbing workers' comp market in Florida is competitive relative to higher-risk trades like roofing. Standard admitted carriers including AmTrust, Employers, ICW Group, and Zurich write plumbing contractors, and the market is accessible for most plumbing businesses with reasonable loss histories.
Plumbing contractors who also perform HVAC or electrical work as part of their operations need to ensure their workers' comp policy covers all operations. A policy written only for plumbing may not respond to injuries that occur during incidental HVAC or electrical tasks.
Reducing Plumbing Workers Comp Costs
Plumbing contractors can reduce workers' comp costs by implementing confined space entry procedures (relevant for work in crawlspaces and utility vaults), requiring proper lifting techniques and back injury prevention training, and maintaining current plumbing licenses for all field employees. Carriers view licensed, credentialed workforces as lower risk and may offer schedule credits accordingly.
For plumbing contractors who use subcontractors for specific tasks (excavation, concrete work, gas line installation), collecting certificates of insurance from those subcontractors is essential to avoid having their payroll added to your audit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the workers comp class code for plumbers in Florida?+−
The primary workers' comp class code for plumbing in Florida is 5183 (Plumbing — not otherwise classified). Underground plumbing and sewer work may be classified under higher-rated codes such as 6319. Gas fitting work may fall under 5183 or a separate code depending on the carrier.
How much does workers comp cost for a plumbing company in Florida?+−
Florida workers' comp rates for plumbing contractors under code 5183 are $2.737 per $100 of payroll. On $300,000 in annual payroll, that's $8,220 in base premium before experience modification and schedule credits.
Can I get workers comp for a new plumbing business in Florida?+−
Yes. New businesses without payroll history can obtain workers' comp coverage. Carriers will typically use estimated payroll for the first policy year and reconcile at audit. Some carriers specialize in new ventures and small plumbing contractors.
Published by Precision Underwriters Inc. dba Bright Coast Insurance — Licensed Florida Insurance Agency, License #L103957. This content was researched and written with AI assistance and reviewed by a licensed insurance professional. The information is general in nature and does not constitute insurance advice for your specific situation.