The Florida workers compensation class code of 5183 is the class code used to rate the payroll of landscaping employees involved in irrigation installation and repair. Many landscapers offer irrigation services to clients and the payroll from those projects must be reported using a separate workers compensation classification code. The definition of the class code from NCCI states that 5183 is used primarily for employees involved in the following operations:

Code 5183 is applicable to plumbing operations provided that the work performed is “not otherwise classified” (NOC). Insureds contemplated by Code 5183 may install, remove, or repair equipment that is used to direct gas or water supplies to a destination. This equipment includes but is not limited to piping and related fixtures, appliances, and accessories. No limits have been established as to the size of the pipe being repaired or installed.

The installation of underground lawn sprinkler systems is included under Code 5183. Irrigation and drainage system construction operations conducted in connection with lawn sprinkler installations are classified under another code. Trenching work performed by the same contractor engaged in the installation of underground pipes for sprinkler systems is assigned to Code 5183 since trenching work is an integral part of the underground sprinkler installation work. Such operations may be performed using either a vibrating plow or a pipe pulling machine, which knives the ground to a depth of 12 to 18 inches and to a width comparable to that of the piping being used. The piping is then automatically inserted into the ground.

Information on the current Florida workers compensation rates (Effective April 1st, 2009) is available in an article through that link. Please be aware that these are subject to change based on decisions of the Florida’s Insurance Commissioner and the claim data information he receives from NCCI.

Please feel free to contact us for a free copy of the complete definition for Florida workers compensation class code 5183 or any other classification that could apply to your landscaping business.

The Agent Articles section of BearWiseLandscapers.com allows our insurance agents to provide practical information for landscapers. These agents can also obtain quotes and establish a custom insurance program for your landscaping business through our access to a variety of insurance carriers. This agent article is filed under 4 Workers' Compensation, and you can follow comments to it through the RSS 2.0 feed. Feel free to leave your own response below: