If you’re a contractor in Virginia, it’s important to understand the state’s workers’ compensation laws. Workers’ comp provides coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation if an employee is injured on the job. For contractors, this type of coverage is often not just a legal requirement but also a critical safeguard for your business.
Who Needs Workers’ Comp in Virginia?
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Virginia law requires workers’ compensation insurance if you have three or more employees.
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Employees can be full-time, part-time, seasonal, or even family members working for the business.
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Subcontractors and 1099 workers may also count toward the employee threshold if they don’t carry their own workers’ comp coverage.
Why It Matters for Contractors
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High-risk work: Contractors frequently face hazards like falls, tool accidents, or heavy equipment injuries.
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Compliance: Many project bids in Virginia require proof of workers’ compensation coverage.
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Financial protection: Without coverage, you may be personally responsible for medical bills and legal expenses.
Exceptions and Considerations
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Sole proprietors and single-member LLCs with no employees are generally not required to carry workers’ comp.
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However, many contractors still choose coverage to protect themselves and meet project requirements.
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If you hire subcontractors, always verify that they carry their own workers’ comp insurance — otherwise you may be held responsible.
Get Help Protecting Your Contracting Business
At Brett J Allen Insurance Agency, we help Virginia contractors understand workers’ comp laws and secure affordable coverage that keeps your business compliant. Whether you’re a one-person crew starting out or managing multiple employees across job sites, we’ll make sure you have the right protection in place.
Call us today at 804-512-7875 for a free consultation on Virginia contractor workers’ compensation insurance.
