What You Need to Keep on File
If someone asks for proof or if you need to check something yourself, having the right papers ready helps. Keep these documents in one place:
- Copy of your workers' comp policy documents. These prove you have insurance.
- Certificate of insurance (COI). Some clients or project managers might ask for it.
- Class code confirmation. Your state decides which code your work uses. The code helps set your price.
- Proof of owner inclusion election (if you chose it). If you want to be covered yourself, you made that choice when you bought the policy.
- Copy of your quote. It shows the real price for your work and state.
When to Check if Your Work Changed
Carpenters often do many different types of work. If your work changes, check if it still matches what you told your insurer.
- If you start doing more electrical work, it might change your class code.
- If you build more decks or install cabinets, that might change your code too.
- If you start working in a new state, you might need a new policy or a different quote.
- If you hire a helper, it changes everything. You might need a different policy.
When in doubt, start your quote again to make sure you are covered for the work you are doing now.
When a New Person Asks for a Certificate
If a new client, contractor, or building manager asks for a certificate of insurance, check a few things:
- Check if your current COI is still valid. It shows the dates the policy is active.
- Check if the person asking needs any special names added to the certificate. You might need to get a new one.
- If the work they want you to do is different from what you told your insurer, you might need to check your quote again.
You can usually get a new or updated COI from your policy documents. If you need help, start your quote to get the latest version.
What to Check Each Time You Renew
Renewing your policy is like buying it for the first time. Each time you renew, check these things:
- Make sure your class code still matches the work you do. The quote will tell you.
- Check if you still want to be covered yourself. If you changed your mind, you can pick that again during the quote.
- Check if the price still looks right for your work and state. Prices can change a little bit.
- Make sure your policy is still active in the state where you work. Some policies do not work in every state.
Renewing is the same as getting your first quote. Start your quote to get the latest version.
When Hiring Your First Helper Changes Things
If you hire your first helper, it changes everything. You can't use a ghost policy anymore. You need a workers' comp policy that includes at least one employee.
- Ghost policies are only for businesses with no employees. They prove coverage exists but do not cover you if you get hurt.
- If you want to be covered yourself, you need to pick the owner inclusion election during the quote. It costs more.
- Your helper will be covered for work-related injuries. They are not covered for other injuries.
- You might need a different class code for your business now. The quote will tell you the right one.
Getting a new quote is the best way to make sure you are covered. Start your quote and tell them about your helper.
How to Stay on Top of Everything
Here are some simple steps to help you stay on top of your insurance and admin work:
- Keep all your papers in one place. Use a folder or a digital folder.
- Check your class code and policy each time you get a new job. Make sure the work matches what you told your insurer.
- Get a new quote each time you renew. It shows the latest price and terms.
- If you want to be covered yourself, pick the owner inclusion election during the quote. It costs more but covers you if you get hurt while working.
- If you hire a helper, get a new quote to make sure your helper is covered and your policy still fits your business.
By following these steps, you can make sure you always have the right insurance for the work you are doing. Start your quote to get the latest coverage for your business.
