Business insurance
Workers' compensation insurance in Raleigh, NC
Care for your team and protect your business.
What it is
Workers' compensation pays medical costs and lost wages for employees hurt on the job, and it is required for most employers. It also helps protect the business from related lawsuits.
Every policy is different, and exact coverage depends on the insurance company and the options you choose. We’ll walk you through the details before you buy.
What we can help you cover
- Medical treatment for work-related injuries and illness
- Wage replacement during recovery
- Employer's liability coverage
- Coordination with your other business policies
Who needs workers' comp in North Carolina
Most North Carolina businesses with three or more employees must carry workers' compensation insurance, and that count includes part-time workers. Some industries have stricter rules, and contractors who hire subcontractors can become responsible for a sub’s injured workers if that sub has no coverage. The NC Industrial Commission oversees the system.
Even below three employees, many owners buy coverage because clients and general contractors require proof of it before work begins.
What it pays
Workers' comp pays medical bills and a portion of lost wages for employees hurt on the job, and it includes employer’s liability coverage if an injury leads to a lawsuit. In most cases it is the employee’s exclusive remedy, which protects the business from being sued over workplace injuries.
Class codes, payroll and audits
Premium is based on payroll and the classification code for the work your employees do, adjusted by your claims experience. At the end of the policy term the insurance company audits payroll, so accurate job descriptions matter. Misclassified roles are a common reason for surprise audit bills.
We help you set up the right classes, keep certificates of insurance from your subcontractors, and look for safety programs that can help control cost over time.
Quick quote
Start your quick quote
Answer a few questions in our workers' compensation quick quote form. A Shadow Lake advisor reviews every request and follows up with you.
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FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Do owners have to be covered by workers' comp?
Corporate officers and LLC members can often elect to include or exclude themselves, subject to state rules. We walk through the trade-offs before you decide.
What if I use 1099 contractors?
Calling someone a contractor does not settle the question. If a sub has no coverage, your policy may have to pick up their workers, and your audit may charge for it. Collect certificates before work starts.
What does Workers' Compensation Insurance typically cover?
Workers' compensation pays medical costs and lost wages for employees hurt on the job, and it is required for most employers. It also helps protect the business from related lawsuits. Exact limits, deductibles and exclusions depend on the policy and the insurance company, so we review the details with you before you buy.
Do you only insure people in Raleigh or North Carolina?
Our office is in North Raleigh, and we work with neighbors across the Triangle every day. As an independent agency we also help clients nationwide when we have markets that fit.
How do I get a quote for workers' compensation coverage?
Start the quick quote form on this page, call or text our office, or request a quote online. An advisor reviews every request and follows up — usually within one business day.
Will you compare more than one insurance company?
Yes. Shadow Lake is an independent agency, so we shop multiple top-rated carriers for you instead of selling a single brand. Availability depends on the coverage, your location and underwriting.
Do small businesses in North Carolina need workers’ compensation?
North Carolina generally requires workers’ compensation once you have three or more employees, with some exceptions. Rules vary by business type — ask us if you’re unsure how they apply to you.
What’s the difference between general liability and a BOP?
General liability focuses on third-party injury and property-damage claims. A business owners policy (BOP) often packages liability with business property. We’ll help you see which structure fits.
Workers' Compensation Insurance near you
Our office is on Six Forks Road in North Raleigh, and we help households and businesses across the Triangle and nationwide.