Empire Underwriters, in partnership with an “A” rated carrier, offers a specialized Non-Standard Workers’ Compensation program for swimming pool and spa contractors that is distributed through Novatae Risk Group. This program is built for accounts that sit outside the appetite of the standard market — giving agents a practical market for hard-to-place clients.
The program targets accounts with underwriting complications such as elevated experience modification rates, prior coverage lapses, non-renewals, adverse loss histories, or difficult class codes. If a client is being steered toward an assigned risk pool or has been declined by standard carriers, this program provides competitive coverage and flexible, cash-flow-friendly options to keep the business working.
Ideal Accounts and Appetite
- Swimming pool and spa contractors with elevated experience modification factors (X-Mods typically from 1.30 to 3.0)
- Accounts non-renewed or cancelled for losses or class of business
- Clients exiting state funds, assigned risk pools, or similar plans
- New ventures with no prior coverage but challenging class codes
- Accounts with adverse underwriting factors or prior claims history
- Multi-state exposures or hard-to-place governing class codes
Example: you might have a client who installs residential and commercial pools across multiple states, has a recent lapse in coverage and prior claims over $20,000. This program is designed to handle exactly that type of complex, higher-risk account.
Coverage Highlights and Advantages
- Pay-As-You-Go Workers’ Comp to improve client cash flow
- No premium deposit and no traditional payroll audits required
- HR support services including COBRA, garnishments, unemployment claims, and more
- Full payroll services with tax filings (941s, W-2s) — or client option to issue payroll in-house
- Flexible placement options: ASO (non-PEO) or full PEO/employee leasing
- Loss control and risk management resources targeted to pool contractors
- Ongoing coverage that remains in force until cancelled
- Aggressive and fair claims management focused on early return-to-work
Underwriting Notes and Submission Requirements
Submissions must meet at least one of the eligibility criteria above. Accounts that are merely shopping for a lower rate or have active offers from standard markets typically are not eligible for this non-standard PEO division.
Provide the following to submit an account:
- ACORD 130
- Class-specific supplemental application (available on our website)
- Three years of loss history
- Loss history affidavit for accounts with a lapse or no prior coverage
- Explanation for any claims exceeding $20,000
- Experience modification worksheet
Territories and Availability
This program is available in most states, including CA, TX, FL, NY, GA, NC, AZ, and IL. Coverage availability, admitted vs. non-admitted placement, and specific terms vary by state and by account details.
Why Work With Novatae Risk Group and Empire Underwriters?
Novatae Risk Group, as a Managing General Underwriter and Excess & Surplus Lines Broker, gives agents access to Empire Underwriters’ experience placing hard-to-place Workers’ Compensation risks. You’ll benefit from focused underwriting, responsive service, unique market access, and tailored solutions for swimming pool and spa contractors. We work to turn difficult placement situations into placed accounts.
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 the primary candidates for this program.
Is prior coverage required for submission?
No. Accounts with no prior coverage may be eligible if they meet one or more of the underwriting criteria listed for the program.
What documents are needed to submit an account?
You’ll need an ACORD 130, the class-specific supplemental application, three years of loss history, an experience mod worksheet, and any required affidavits or claim explanations for large losses.
Can clients handle their own payroll checks?
Yes. Clients can choose to run payroll in-house, or they can 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 others. Availability and placement (admitted vs. non-admitted) depend on state and account specifics.
Need help placing an account? Connect with a market specialist.