Florida Workers' Compensation

What is Florida workers' compensation?

Florida workers' compensation is mandatory no-fault insurance for most employers with construction employees. It pays medical costs and lost wages when covered workers are injured on the job.

Construction is a high-enforcement industry in Florida. Operating without required coverage can stop jobs, trigger stop-work orders, and create personal liability for owners.

Who must carry coverage?

Most construction businesses with one or more employees must carry workers' compensation. Corporate officers and LLC members may elect exemptions in some cases, but exemption rules are narrow and trade-specific.

Hiring 1099 subs does not automatically avoid coverage obligations. Misclassified workers create audit and penalty risk.

Subcontractor compliance

General contractors are often responsible for verifying that subcontractors carry valid workers' compensation or proper exemptions. When a sub lacks coverage, the GC may become liable for that sub's workers on the job.

Build insurance verification into subcontractor onboarding before anyone mobilizes.

Workers' comp vs general liability

Workers' compensation covers employee injuries. It does not replace:

• General liability for third-party property damage or injury
• Auto or tools coverage
• Surety bonds required on public or large private jobs

Carry the full insurance stack your contract and license require.

On the job

Verify sub certificates every job. Expired policies are a common stop-work trigger.

Report payroll accurately. Misclassification audits are expensive.

Post required workplace notices. Compliance includes documentation, not just premiums.

Note

This is general info only. Florida workers' compensation rules depend on entity type, employee count, and trade. Confirm obligations with the Florida Division of Workers' Compensation or qualified counsel.