Workers’ compensation helps address covered work-related injuries and illnesses under applicable law and policy terms. For Virginia contractors, the coverage review should include subcontractors, job duties and payroll records—not just the number of people on your own payroll.
Who counts toward the coverage requirement?
The Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission states that an employer who regularly employs more than two full-time or part-time employees must carry coverage. Executive officers count as employees. When subcontractors perform the same trade, business or occupation, or fulfill a contract, their employees are included in the count.
The Commission says this subcontractor-counting requirement applies even if the subcontractor has its own coverage. Review your actual arrangement with the Commission and your insurance adviser rather than assuming a small payroll means coverage is unnecessary.
Does the policy reflect the work being performed?
Describe every trade, service and project type. HVAC installation, electrical work, plumbing, carpentry and general contracting involve different tasks. Ask whether classifications, estimated payroll and the stated operations accurately reflect your business.
Report significant changes before they become an audit surprise. Moving into another type of work or adding employees should trigger a coverage conversation.
What should I collect from subcontractors?
Ask what insurance documentation and records your insurer requires. Gather certificates, contracts, payment records and information about the subcontractor’s work. Confirm dates and follow up on expired documentation.
Do not treat a certificate alone as proof that every legal or policy responsibility has been resolved.
What records will support the premium audit?
Keep payroll, job-duty information, subcontractor payments and requested insurance records organized throughout the policy period. Ask how payroll changes are reported and how the final audit affects premium. Answer audit requests promptly and resolve unclear classifications with the insurer.
What about work outside Virginia?
Share every state where employees or subcontractors work. Ask how the policy addresses those operations and which additional requirements need review before the project begins.
Questions to bring to the meeting
Can I use my subcontractor’s policy instead of reviewing my own obligation?
No. The Commission’s employee-counting guidance includes subcontractor employees even when the subcontractor carries coverage.
Where can I confirm Virginia’s guidance?
Read the Commission’s employer FAQs and employer guidance.
Build a clearer contractor protection plan
All Assured Solutions helps contractors review employee, vehicle, equipment and liability gaps together. Request a business risk assessment or explore contractor protection.
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