Workers' Comp Insurance for Painting Businesses in New York

Painting contractors (NCCI 5474) face moderate-to-high rates due to fall, ladder, and chemical exposure. Interior-only painters may qualify for slightly lower rates than exterior or commercial painters working at heights in New York. The New York workers' compensation market is governed by NYCIRB, and the average rate statewide is approximately $1.41 per $100 of payroll.

New York requirements for painting businesses

When required: Required for any employer with at least one employee, including part-time and family members.

Sole proprietors: Sole proprietors are exempt unless they elect; partnerships exempt for partners only.

Owner / officer exclusion: Sole corporate officers and one- or two-person corps may exclude; LLC members may exclude.

Painting class codes used in New York

Why painting workers' comp is tricky in New York

Carriers scrutinize painters who work above 3 stories, perform sandblasting, or apply industrial coatings — these activities can trigger different (higher) codes.

Tips for New York painting contractors

• ✓ Stay under 3 stories for the standard code; higher work re-classes
• ✓ Lead-paint certification is required for older buildings — RRP rule
• ✓ Spray vs roll equipment can affect underwriter appetite

Painting workers' comp in other states

Rates and requirements for painting contractors vary widely by state. Compare New York to other major markets:

Other industries in New York

New York workers' comp rates and requirements for other common industries: