Empire Underwriters, in partnership with an “A” rated carrier, offers a specialized Non-Standard Workers’ Compensation program tailored for swimming pool and spa contractors. Through Novatae Risk Group, this program is designed for accounts that fall outside the appetite of the standard market — providing a lifeline to agents seeking solutions for their hard-to-place clients.
This program is ideal for accounts facing challenges such as high experience mods, prior coverage lapses, non-renewals, adverse loss history, or tough class codes. Whether your client is being pushed into the assigned risk pool or has been declined by the standard market, we can help you secure competitive coverage with flexible, cash flow-friendly options.
Ideal Accounts and Appetite
- Swimming pool and spa contractors with high X-Mods (1.30 to 3.0)
- Accounts non-renewed or cancelled due to losses or class of business
- Clients moving out of state funds or assigned risk pools
- New ventures with no prior coverage but challenging class codes
- Accounts with adverse underwriting factors or prior claims history
- Multi-state exposures or tough-to-place governing class codes
For example, you might have a client with a lapse in coverage and a history of losses over $20,000 who installs residential and commercial pools across multiple states. This program is designed exactly for that type of high-need, high-risk client.
Coverage Highlights and Advantages
- Pay-As-You-Go Workers’ Comp – improved cash flow
- No premium deposit or audits required
- HR support services – COBRA, garnishments, unemployment claims, and more
- Full payroll services including tax filings (941s, W-2s)
- Client option to cut their own payroll checks
- Options for ASO (non-PEO) or full PEO/employee leasing
- Loss control and risk management support
- Ongoing coverage – continuous until cancelled
- Aggressive and fair claims management
Underwriting Notes and Submission Requirements
All submissions must meet at least one of the eligibility criteria listed above. Accounts that are simply shopping for better rates or have active offers from standard markets are not eligible for quotes from this PEO division.
To submit an account, please provide:
- ACORD 130
- Class-specific supplemental application (available on our website)
- Three years of loss history
- Loss history affidavit for accounts with lapse or no prior coverage
- Explanation for any claims exceeding $20,000
- Experience Mod worksheet
Territories and Availability
This program is available in most states, including but not limited to CA, TX, FL, NY, GA, NC, AZ, and IL. Coverage availability and terms may vary by location. Admitted and non-admitted markets are used depending on state-specific conditions.
Why Work With Novatae Risk Group and Empire Underwriters?
As a Managing General Underwriter and Excess & Surplus Lines Broker, Novatae Risk Group gives you access to Empire Underwriters’ deep expertise in hard-to-place Workers’ Comp. You’ll benefit from decades of underwriting experience, responsive service, unique market access, and tailored solutions for your pool contractor clients. Let us help you turn your toughest Workers’ Comp challenges into success stories.
Need a quote for your Swimming Pool Contractor account?
Email [email protected] or call 800-758-8113 to speak with an underwriter today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of accounts are a good fit for this program?
Swimming pool and spa contractors with high X-Mods, prior coverage lapses, large claims, or those exiting assigned risk pools are ideal candidates.
Is prior coverage required for submission?
No, accounts with no prior coverage may be eligible as long as they meet one or more of the underwriting criteria outlined in the program.
What documents are needed to submit an account?
You’ll need an ACORD 130, class-specific supplemental application, three years of loss history, an experience mod worksheet, and other documentation depending on the account’s history.
Can clients handle their own payroll checks?
Yes, clients have the option to handle payroll in-house or use the full payroll and HR services included in the program.
In which states is this program available?
The program is available in most states, including CA, TX, FL, NY, GA, NC, and more. Availability may vary based on specific account details.
Need help placing an account? Connect with a market specialist.