In West Virginia, employers classified under NAICS 813312 – Historical Sites – are assigned workers' compensation class codes that reflect the unique hazards of preserving, restoring, and operating historic properties, resulting in rates that differ from the national average.
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Typical Class Codes for Historical Sites in WV
West Virginia's Workers' Compensation Bureau (WVCB) uses the following primary class codes for activities commonly performed at historical sites:
- 5605 – General Construction, including restoration work.
- 5710 – Painting and Decorating, often required for interior preservation.
- 5820 – Maintenance and Cleaning, covering routine upkeep.
- 5870 – Landscaping and Groundskeeping, for exterior grounds.
How Rates Are Determined
Each code carries a manual rate set by the West Virginia Compensation Rating Bureau (WVCRB). Rates are adjusted by experience modification factors (e‑mods) that reflect an employer's loss history. For historical sites, the e‑mod may be higher if the property experiences frequent structural repairs or exposure to hazardous materials such as lead‑based paint.
Reporting Requirements
Employers must report the NAICS 813312 designation on the initial workers' compensation registration form and update it if the scope of work expands to include additional codes. Failure to accurately code can lead to under‑ or over‑insurance and potential penalties.
Comparing WV Codes to Neighboring States
| State | Primary Code | Manual Rate (per $100 payroll) |
|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 5605 | 1.85 |
| Virginia | 5605 | 1.70 |
| Pennsylvania | 5605 | 1.92 |
The WV rate is modestly higher than Virginia's but lower than Pennsylvania's, reflecting the state's balanced approach to historical preservation risks.
Best Practices for WV Historical Site Employers
• Conduct a thorough job‑hazard analysis before assigning codes.• Keep detailed records of all restoration projects to support e‑mod calculations.• Review the WVCRB rate handbook annually for updates to manual rates or new classification options.• Consult a WV‑licensed insurance broker familiar with historic preservation to optimize coverage.