Start with the basics every time
You are a flooring installer. You need workers' comp if someone asks you to show proof. It proves your business has insurance. It does not cover you, the owner, by default.
You can choose to cover yourself, but it costs more. The checklist below helps you stay ready for the next job and the next certificate request.
- Do you have workers' comp? Yes or no.
- Is the policy active? Check the dates on your certificate.
- Does it match the work you do? If you do different jobs now, it might not fit.
Keep these papers on hand
Always have these documents ready. You might need to show them to a customer or a contractor before starting work.
- Certificate of insurance from your workers' comp policy.
- Copy of your policy documents. These tell you what the policy covers and what it doesn't.
- Your class code for flooring work. The quote gives you the code. It helps the insurance company know what kind of work you do.
When to update your insurance
Things change in your business. You must tell your insurance company if any of these happen:
- You hire someone new. Even one helper means you need to include them in your policy.
- You start doing new types of work. If you used to only install hardwood floors and now do tile, your class code might change.
- You move to a new state. Your policy must be in the state where you work.
If you don't update your insurance, you might be breaking the law or not be protected.
What to do when someone asks for a certificate
Someone asks you for a certificate. Here's what to do:
- Check your certificate of insurance to see if it's still valid.
- If it's missing or expired, get a new quote. Your quote shows if your state is allowed and gives you a new certificate.
- Make sure the certificate has the right name of the person or company asking. That's the certificate holder.
You can't hand someone an old certificate. It must be up to date for their records.
Check this list before each renewal
Workers' comp policies end and need to be renewed. Before the old one ends, check these things:
- Is your business doing the same work? If not, your class code might change.
- Do you have new helpers? You must add them to your policy.
- Did you move? Your policy must be in your new state.
Renewing your policy is like getting a new quote. You choose the same work or new details. The new policy starts when it's approved.
What happens if you hire someone
If you hire even one person, your insurance changes. Here's why:
- Your workers' comp must include them. You must tell the insurance company about them.
- Your policy might cost more. Adding people usually raises the price.
- Your certificate must show the new person. They are now part of your business.
If you don't tell your insurance company, you might be breaking the law. Your policy must cover everyone who works for you.
Get your quote now
If you're ready to get or update your workers' comp, use the quote tool. It tells you the real price for your state and the work you do. It gives you a policy and a certificate you can hand to anyone who asks.
