There’s a new workers’ compensation rule coming to Minnesota on May 23, 2025, and while it’s aimed at contractors, it can have a big impact on you as a customer.
The short version? It’s all about making sure the right people have the right insurance — and making it harder for anyone to cut corners that could put you at risk.
What’s Changing
The state is rolling out something called a “Zero Estimated Exposure” policy. This type of policy is issued when a contractor claims they don’t have any employees who need workers’ comp coverage.
From May 23, 2025, if a contractor or subcontractor carries this kind of policy, they must:
- Notify their project partners in writing
- Provide a copy of the policy
No more guessing games about whether workers on your project are covered in the event of an accident. You’ll have it in writing.
Why You Should Care
If a worker gets injured on your job site and they’re not covered by workers’ comp, things can get messy fast. You could see:
- Lawsuits involving the property owner
- Delays while legal and insurance issues are sorted out
- Surprise costs from claims and disputes
With this new rule in place:
- You’ll know exactly who’s insured before work begins
- Any coverage gaps can be fixed up front
- Your project is less likely to be derailed by legal complications
It’s essentially an added layer of protection for your wallet, your timeline, and your peace of mind.
Looking Ahead: 2026 Changes
The state isn’t stopping here. Beginning January 1, 2026, insurance companies will also have to publicly report when they issue zero estimated exposure policies.
This makes it even easier for general contractors, subcontractors, and customers to double-check who’s following the rules — and spot potential red flags early.
How Stonewing Builders Handles It
At Stonewing Builders, we’re not waiting for deadlines to do the right thing. We’ve already built these protections into how we work:
- Thorough Subcontractor Screening – We verify every subcontractor’s workers’ comp coverage before they step onto a job site.
- Clear Documentation – We maintain organized, transparent records so you always know the coverage status.
- Full Protection Guarantee – We make sure every person on your project is covered — no exceptions.
This approach not only keeps us compliant but ensures our clients never have to worry about unexpected insurance surprises during their project.
What This Means for You
When you hire Stonewing Builders, you’re getting more than just skilled craftsmanship and quality work. You’re getting a team that:
- Stays ahead of state regulations
- Proactively prevents legal and financial risks
- Keeps your project moving without unnecessary hiccups
The new workers’ comp rule might be about insurance, but for us, it’s really about peace of mind for our customers.
Bottom line: Minnesota’s workers’ comp reform creates more transparency in construction. At Stonewing Builders, we’re already operating above the standard — so you can move forward with confidence knowing your project is safe, compliant, and in good hands.
