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Workers Compensation Insurance for Plumbers in Pennsylvania: Coverage, Costs, and Requirements
Workers compensation insurance for plumbing companies in Pennsylvania: what WC covers, PA licensing requirements, Philadelphia litigation context, and average premiums for Pennsylvania plumbers.
Written by
Editorial Team
Reviewed by
James T. Whitfield
Workers compensation insurance is required for Pennsylvania plumbing companies with one or more employees. WC covers your employees' work-related injuries and illnesses: medical treatment, lost wages, disability benefits, and death benefits. Pennsylvania's above-average workers comp system and Philadelphia's litigation environment push Pennsylvania plumber WC premiums above the national average.
Quick Answer
Estimated workers compensation premiums for Pennsylvania plumbing companies:
| Business Size | Estimated Annual WC Premium |
|---|---|
| Small plumbing company (1 to 5 employees) | $2,000 to $4,000 per year |
| Larger plumbing company (6 or more employees) | $3,800 to $7,600 per year |
Pennsylvania plumber workers comp premiums are above the national average. Actual premiums depend on payroll, employee classification codes, and experience modification factor.
What Workers Comp Covers for Pennsylvania Plumbing Companies
Injuries from Tools and Equipment
WC covers injuries from pipe wrenches, saws, drills, and other plumbing tools.
Burns and Chemical Exposure
WC covers burns from hot water lines, steam, and soldering equipment, as well as chemical exposure from drain cleaners, solvents, and pipe treatments.
Confined Space and Fall Injuries
WC covers injuries that occur in confined spaces and falls from ladders and elevated work areas.
Back and Musculoskeletal Injuries
WC covers back injuries and musculoskeletal damage from heavy lifting, awkward positions, and repetitive work.
Lost Wages and Disability
WC pays a portion of an injured employee's wages during recovery and provides permanent disability benefits for lasting impairments.
What Workers Comp Does Not Cover for Pennsylvania Plumbing Companies
Third-Party Bodily Injury
WC does not cover bodily injury claims from non-employees. General liability covers those third-party claims.
Property Damage
WC does not cover property damage caused by your plumbers. GL covers property damage claims.
Non-Work Injuries
WC covers work-related injuries only.
Pennsylvania-Specific Considerations
Pennsylvania Workers Compensation Appeal Board
Pennsylvania WC disputes are handled by the Workers Compensation Appeal Board. Pennsylvania's worker-favorable system contributes to above-average premiums for all trade contractors including plumbers.
Pennsylvania State Workers Insurance Fund
Pennsylvania operates SWIF as an insurer of last resort. Plumbing companies with difficulty obtaining private WC can access SWIF.
Pennsylvania Plumbing Licensing
Pennsylvania requires plumbers to hold a valid license through the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry. Licensed plumbing contractors with employees must maintain active WC. WC certificates are required for plumbing permit applications in Pennsylvania municipalities.
Philadelphia and Pittsburgh Plumbing Markets
Philadelphia and Pittsburgh are Pennsylvania's primary plumbing markets. Commercial, industrial, and residential plumbing work in these cities is governed by strict licensing and permit requirements.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is workers comp required for plumbers in Pennsylvania?
Yes. Pennsylvania requires WC for employers with one or more employees.
Does Pennsylvania plumbing licensing require WC?
Yes. WC certificates are required for plumbing permit applications in Pennsylvania municipalities.
Does WC cover chemical burns during plumbing work?
Yes. WC covers burns and chemical exposure that occur during employment.
How much does workers comp cost for a Pennsylvania plumbing company?
Pennsylvania small plumbing companies typically pay $2,000 to $4,000 per year for WC coverage, above the national average.
What is the Pennsylvania SWIF?
The Pennsylvania State Workers Insurance Fund is a state-operated WC carrier available to all Pennsylvania employers as an insurer of last resort.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute insurance or legal advice. Coverage details and costs vary by carrier and individual circumstances. Consult a licensed insurance agent and attorney for guidance specific to your situation.
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This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute insurance advice. Coverage, requirements, and costs vary by state, carrier, and individual circumstances. Consult a licensed insurance agent for guidance specific to your situation.
About the author
Commercial Insurance Editorial Team
The Dareable editorial team covers commercial insurance for small business owners. Every guide is fact-checked by a licensed CIC or CPCU before publication.
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