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Protect Your Carpentry Business with Workers' Compensation in North Dakota

By SecureProQuote Editorial TeamUpdated June 30, 2026

Part of our guide to carpenters insurance in North Dakota.

Workers' Compensation Insurance pays for medical bills and lost wages when employees are injured on the job, but it does not cover damage to your tools or equipment. In North Dakota, this coverage is required as soon as you hire your first employee. Carpenters in Grand Forks, Bismarck, and Minot must have Workers' Compensation to comply with state law and meet client requirements. General contractors and commercial clients typically require proof of general liability insurance and workers' compensation before hiring a carpenter. Workers' Compensation does not cover general liability or tools and equipment, which are typically carried separately. Carpenters must understand what Workers' Compensation covers and what it does not to avoid costly mistakes.

Workers' Compensation cost for carpenters in North Dakota

$55$215/mo (est.)

Illustrative monthly workers comp estimate for a small carpenter operation in North Dakota. Actual pricing depends on revenue, payroll, coverage limits, claims history, and carrier. Get a personalized quote to see your real price.

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What Workers' Compensation Covers for Carpenters in North Dakota

Workers' Compensation Insurance pays for medical bills and lost wages when employees are injured on the job, such as a carpenter falling off a roof in Fargo or a worker injuring their back while lifting heavy materials in Bismarck. This coverage handles claims for injuries caused by extreme cold and blizzards, as well as those resulting from accidents with tools or equipment. However, it does not cover damage to your tools or equipment, which is typically carried under a separate policy, such as Tools and Equipment Insurance. For example, if a carpenter's employee is injured while operating a saw, Workers' Compensation would cover the employee's medical bills and lost wages, but it would not cover the cost of repairing or replacing the saw.

Do Carpenters in North Dakota Need Workers' Compensation?

In North Dakota, workers' compensation is generally required as soon as you hire your first employee. This means that carpenters in Grand Forks, Minot, and other cities must have Workers' Compensation to comply with state law. Going without this coverage can result in significant fines and penalties, as well as leaving your business vulnerable to costly lawsuits. For example, if an employee is injured on the job and you do not have Workers' Compensation, you may be liable for their medical bills and lost wages, which can quickly add up to tens of thousands of dollars. Furthermore, many general contractors and commercial clients require carpenters to have Workers' Compensation before hiring them, so not having this coverage can limit your business opportunities.

A Real Workers' Compensation Claim a Carpenter Could Face

Anderson Carpentry in Fargo was working on a construction project when one of their employees, a 35-year-old carpenter, fell off a roof and injured his back. The employee required surgery and was unable to work for several months, resulting in medical bills totaling $50,000 and lost wages of $20,000. Fortunately, Anderson Carpentry had Workers' Compensation Insurance, which covered the employee's medical bills and lost wages, as well as provided vocational rehabilitation to help the employee return to work. The policy paid out a total of $70,000, saving Anderson Carpentry from a significant financial burden.

What Workers' Compensation Costs for Carpenters in North Dakota

The cost of Workers' Compensation Insurance for carpenters in North Dakota varies, but estimated premiums range from $55-$215/month. Factors that affect the cost of this coverage include the business's revenue, payroll, coverage limits, deductible, and claims history. For example, a carpentry business in Bismarck with a high claims history may pay more for Workers' Compensation than a similar business in Grand Forks with a lower claims history. Additionally, the state fund in North Dakota, which provides workers' compensation coverage to businesses, can impact the cost of this coverage. To lower their premium, carpenters can implement safety measures, such as providing regular training and ensuring a safe working environment, to reduce the risk of employee injuries.

How to Get Workers' Compensation in North Dakota

To get Workers' Compensation Insurance in North Dakota, carpenters should gather information about their business, including revenue, payroll, and coverage limits, and compare quotes from different providers. It's also essential to ask about the deductible and any discounts that may be available. For example, a carpenter in Minot may be able to lower their premium by bundling Workers' Compensation with their other core policies, such as General Liability and Tools and Equipment Insurance. By bundling these policies, carpenters can often lower their total premium and gain more comprehensive protection for their business. Get your quote today and protect your carpentry business from employee injuries and other risks.

Frequently asked questions

Will my Workers' Compensation premium jump after one claim?

Yes. After a claim, your premium may increase due to the increased risk of future claims. However, the extent of the increase depends on various factors, including the severity of the claim, your business's claims history, and the state fund's rating system.

Can I get a COI same-day for a client?

Yes. Many providers offer same-day COIs for Workers' Compensation Insurance. However, this may depend on the provider and the complexity of the request. To ensure a smooth process, it's recommended to work with a provider that offers online quoting and binding, as well as same-day COIs, to meet the needs of your clients and your business.

Does a sole proprietor need Workers' Compensation?

No. In North Dakota, sole proprietors are not required to have Workers' Compensation Insurance. However, if you hire employees, you will need to obtain this coverage to comply with state law. As a sole proprietor, you may still want to consider obtaining Workers' Compensation Insurance to protect yourself and your business from potential risks and liabilities.

What is not covered by Workers' Compensation?

Workers' Compensation Insurance does not cover damage to your tools or equipment, which is typically carried under a separate policy, such as Tools and Equipment Insurance. Additionally, this coverage does not cover general liability, which is essential for protecting your business from third-party claims. It's crucial to understand what is not covered by Workers' Compensation to ensure you have the necessary coverage for your business.

Can I cancel my Workers' Compensation policy at any time?

Yes. If you cancel your policy and still have employees, you may be liable for any work-related injuries or illnesses that occur after the cancellation date. Additionally, you may face penalties and fines for not having the required coverage. It's recommended to work with a provider that offers flexible policy terms and cancellation options to meet the changing needs of your business.

How do I know if my subcontractors need Workers' Compensation?

To determine if your subcontractors need Workers' Compensation, you should review their contracts and verify their coverage. In North Dakota, subcontractors who have employees are required to have Workers' Compensation Insurance. If your subcontractors do not have the necessary coverage, you may be liable for any work-related injuries or illnesses that occur on your job site.

Can I get Workers' Compensation Insurance if I have a high-risk business?

Yes. You can get Workers' Compensation Insurance even if you have a high-risk business. However, your premium may be higher due to the increased risk of claims. To minimize the cost, it's recommended to work with a provider that specializes in high-risk businesses and offers customized coverage options. Additionally, implementing safety measures and providing a safe working environment can help reduce the risk of claims and lower your premium over time.

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Other coverages carpenters in North Dakota should know

This article is for general educational purposes and is not insurance or legal advice. Coverage requirements and pricing in North Dakota change over time and vary by business. Verify current rules with the North Dakota Department of Insurance and a licensed agent before purchasing a policy.