The two plumbing codes
| Code | Description | Hourly wage | Rate per $100 | On $60,000 payroll |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5183 | Plumbing, lower-wage employees | Under $35/hr | $5.716 | $3,430 |
| 5187 | Plumbing, higher-wage employees | $35/hr or more | $2.732 | $1,639 |
Note: Advisory pure premium rates per $100 of payroll effective 9/1/2026, before each carrier's own rating. The lower code applies when the employee's regular hourly wage is under the threshold, the higher-wage code at or above it.
How the wage split works
- The code follows each employee's regular hourly wage, so one plumbing company can have payroll in both 5183 and 5187
- Overtime premiums are not part of the regular hourly wage
- Helpers, apprentices and journeymen are each classified by their own wage
- WCIRB can change the threshold, so confirm it at each renewal
Other payroll on a plumber's policy
- Office staff who never go on a jobsite are rated in a separate clerical class at a much lower rate
- Executive supervisors and outside sales are classified separately
- Drain cleaning, water heater work and sewer or septic work can fall under different classes, so describe your work mix to the carrier
Plumbers in California
CSLB lists 16,591 active C-36 Plumbing licenses in the September 2026 license file. 51% are filed exempt (no employees) and 47% show a workers' comp policy on file. The exempt group will need a policy from January 1, 2028, when every active license must carry workers' comp, except joint ventures with no employees.
Get a plumber workers' comp quote
Asena checks which markets take your class code and payroll. Call (858) 925-9555 or request a review online — only your name, phone and email are required; we collect project details by phone. Asena Capital Insurance Services, CA License #6008596.
Frequently asked questions
What workers' comp code do plumbers use in California?
WCIRB class 5183 when the hourly wage is under $35 and 5187 at $35 or more.
How much is workers' comp for a plumber?
The advisory pure premium rates effective 9/1/2026 are $5.716 (5183) and $2.732 (5187) per $100 of payroll. The final premium depends on the carrier, your experience and your payroll.
Are helpers and journeymen rated the same?
Each employee is classified by his or her own regular hourly wage, so a helper under the threshold is rated in 5183 and a higher-paid plumber in 5187.
Do plumbers need workers' comp with no employees?
Not today. From January 1, 2028, every active California contractor license must carry workers' comp, except joint ventures with no employees.