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Protect Your Texas Construction Business with Workers' Compensation Insurance

By SecureProQuote Editorial TeamUpdated June 29, 2026

Part of our guide to general contractors insurance in Texas.

A general contractor in San Antonio recently faced a devastating workers' compensation claim when an employee fell from a scaffold, incurring $100,000 in medical bills and lost wages. Without Workers' Compensation Insurance, the contractor had to pay out of pocket, jeopardizing the business. This coverage is crucial for general contractors in Texas, as it pays for medical bills and lost wages when employees are injured on the job. You need to understand what Workers' Compensation covers and how it can protect your business from financial ruin. Workers' Compensation Insurance is not required in Texas, but it's essential for protecting your business from injury lawsuits.

Workers' Compensation cost for general contractors in Texas

$60$225/mo (est.)

Illustrative monthly workers comp estimate for a small general contractor operation in Texas. 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 General Contractors in Texas

Workers' Compensation Insurance covers medical bills and lost wages when employees are injured on the job. For example, if an employee falls from a ladder while working on a construction site in Dallas, Workers' Compensation Insurance will pay for their medical bills and lost wages. This coverage also handles claims for occupational diseases, such as respiratory problems caused by inhaling dust on a construction site. However, Workers' Compensation does not cover injuries that occur while an employee is commuting to or from work or injuries that are self-inflicted. General Liability Insurance, on the other hand, covers third-party bodily injury and property damage claims, which are not related to employee injuries. By carrying Workers' Compensation Insurance, you can protect your business from financial ruin in the event of an employee injury. In Texas, where severe hailstorms and hurricane risks are common, Workers' Compensation Insurance is crucial for general contractors.

Do General Contractors in Texas Need Workers' Compensation?

While Workers' Compensation Insurance is not required in Texas, it's essential for protecting your business from injury lawsuits. Without Workers' Compensation Insurance, you may be liable for employee injuries, which can lead to financial ruin. Additionally, most commercial clients in Texas require general contractors to carry at least $1 million in Workers' Compensation Insurance as a condition of signing a construction contract. By carrying Workers' Compensation Insurance, you can protect your business and ensure that you can bid on large construction projects. Furthermore, Workers' Compensation Insurance provides a safe work environment for your employees, which can lead to increased productivity and reduced turnover. In the event of an employee injury, Workers' Compensation Insurance will pay for medical bills and lost wages, protecting your business from financial ruin.

A Real Workers' Compensation Claim a General Contractor Could Face

It was a routine job in Houston until an employee fell from a scaffold, incurring $100,000 in medical bills and lost wages. The employee required surgery and several months of rehabilitation, during which time they were unable to work. Workers' Compensation Insurance paid for the employee's medical bills and lost wages, protecting the general contractor from financial ruin. The general contractor had purchased a Workers' Compensation policy with a $1 million limit, which covered the entire claim. Without Workers' Compensation Insurance, the general contractor would have had to pay the claim out of pocket, jeopardizing the business. By carrying Workers' Compensation Insurance, you can protect your business from financial ruin and ensure that your employees receive the medical care they need in the event of an injury.

What Workers' Compensation Costs for General Contractors in Texas

The estimated premium for Workers' Compensation Insurance in Texas is $60-$225/month. However, the actual cost of Workers' Compensation Insurance varies depending on several factors, including revenue, payroll, coverage limits, deductible, and claims history. For example, a general contractor with a high revenue and large payroll may pay more for Workers' Compensation Insurance than a smaller contractor. Additionally, general contractors who have a history of employee injuries may pay more for Workers' Compensation Insurance than those with a safe work environment. By maintaining a safe work environment and reducing employee injuries, you can lower your Workers' Compensation premium. Severe hailstorms and hurricane risks in Texas also increase the cost of Workers' Compensation Insurance, as they increase the risk of employee injuries. By understanding the factors that affect the cost of Workers' Compensation Insurance, you can make informed decisions about your policy and reduce your premium.

How to Get Workers' Compensation in Texas

To get Workers' Compensation Insurance in Texas, you'll need to gather information about your business, including revenue, payroll, and claims history. You'll also need to determine your coverage limits and deductible. In Dallas, for example, you can find insurance agents who specialize in Workers' Compensation Insurance for general contractors. By bundling Workers' Compensation Insurance with your other core policies, such as General Liability and Commercial Auto, you can often lower your total premium. Get your quote today and protect your business from employee injuries. With the right Workers' Compensation policy, you can ensure that your employees receive the medical care they need in the event of an injury and protect your business from financial ruin.

Frequently asked questions

Will my Workers' Compensation premium jump after one claim?

Yes. However, the increase will depend on the severity of the claim and your claims history. By maintaining a safe work environment and reducing employee injuries, you can minimize the impact of a claim on your premium. Additionally, some insurance carriers offer premium discounts for general contractors who implement safety protocols and training programs.

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

Yes. Most insurance carriers can provide a certificate of insurance (COI) same-day, which is often required by commercial clients. A COI is a critical document that verifies your Workers' Compensation coverage, and it's often required before starting a construction project.

Does a sole proprietor need Workers' Compensation?

No. However, if you have employees, you'll need to carry Workers' Compensation Insurance to protect them in the event of an injury. By carrying Workers' Compensation Insurance, you can protect your business and ensure that your employees receive the medical care they need in the event of an injury.

What's not covered by Workers' Compensation?

Workers' Compensation does not cover injuries that occur while an employee is commuting to or from work or injuries that are self-inflicted. Additionally, Workers' Compensation does not cover third-party bodily injury and property damage claims, which are covered by General Liability Insurance.

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

Yes. By working with an experienced insurance agent, you can ensure that you have the right coverage for your business and minimize your risks and liabilities. Additionally, some insurance carriers may offer premium refunds or waivers if you cancel your policy, but these vary depending on the carrier and policy terms.

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Other coverages general contractors in Texas should know

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