Class Code 9031
Pest Control
Class Code 9031 covers pest control operations in California where employees apply pesticides, perform structural or residential inspections, set traps/baits, or conduct fumigation. The September 1, 2026 approved pure premium for this class is $3.783 per $100 of payroll, a baseline used to price expected claim costs for these higher‑exposure field activities.
What Class Code 9031 Covers
This classification applies to businesses whose core operations are application of pesticides and other pest control agents, structural and residential inspections for insects and rodents, setting and servicing traps and bait stations, and controlled fumigation or tenting. It includes work done inside buildings (crawlspaces, attics, basements), on exterior structures, and on properties for mosquito or wildlife abatement where pesticide application or chemical control is used. Routine office or administrative staff who do not handle pesticides or enter service sites are not typically included in 9031 and should be assigned an office/clerical classification. Employers who split duties — for example landscapers who occasionally spray — must allocate payroll correctly between pest control and other classifications to avoid audit adjustments.
Who It Applies To
- Residential and commercial pest control companies (insect and rodent control)
- Structural fumigation and termite treatment contractors
- Mosquito abatement and vector control contractors using chemical applications
- Wildlife exclusion businesses that use chemical controls or baiting
- Field technicians, licensed applicators, and service drivers who handle pesticides
Common Job Duties
- Mixing, loading and applying pesticides, insecticides, rodenticides and fumigants
- Inspecting structures (attics, crawlspaces, basements) for infestations and damage
- Setting, servicing and monitoring traps, bait stations and glue boards
- Operating power sprayers, ULV foggers, fumigation tents and baiting rigs
- Transporting labeled pesticide containers and service equipment to job sites
- Cleaning and decontaminating equipment and PPE after applications
Common Injury Risks
Understanding the $3.783 Rate
The pure premium of $3.783 per $100 of payroll represents the insurer's estimate of expected claim costs for this class before adding underwriting expenses, profit, and state assessments. To calculate a payroll‑based premium, multiply total class payroll (in hundreds) by the pure premium, then apply your insurer's loss cost multiplier, experience modification, and any credits or discounts. Final premiums vary by your company’s loss history, safety programs, payroll mix, and whether payroll is properly allocated between field and non‑field classifications.
Cal/OSHA Compliance Requirements
Pest control employers must maintain a written Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP) and comply with Cal/OSHA standards such as Hazard Communication (Title 8 §5194) and Respiratory Protection (Title 8 §5144) when respirators are required. Employers also must follow pesticide labeling and licensing requirements enforced by the California Department of Pesticide Regulation and ensure required medical surveillance, fit testing, and respirator training. Additionally, comply with ladder and fall protection rules and heat illness prevention for outdoor crews when applicable.
How Key HR Helps Employers Under Class Code 9031
A PEO like Key HR helps pest control employers manage workers' comp costs by ensuring correct payroll classification, delivering targeted safety programs (pesticide handling, respirator use, confined‑space and ladder safety), and providing centralized claims management to speed return‑to‑work. Key HR also assists with regulatory recordkeeping, training documentation, and auditor support to reduce audit exposure and control loss frequency.
Get a QuoteFrequently Asked Questions
Do termite inspectors and estimate-only visits fall under 9031?
If the employee enters structures to inspect for pests and performs pest‑related inspections, they are generally included in 9031. Purely office‑based estimate staff who do not enter service sites should be assigned a clerical classification. Accurate payroll allocation between field inspection and office duties is important to avoid audit reclassification.
How can my pest control company lower its workers' comp premium?
Focus on reducing claims frequency and severity: implement formal pesticide safety training, enforce PPE and respirator programs with fit testing and medical clearance, use engineering controls (closed mixing systems), document regular safety meetings, and run a light‑duty return‑to‑work program. Accurate payroll reporting and separating non‑field employees from 9031 payroll also lower premium exposure.
Are subcontractors covered under my 9031 payroll or do they need their own insurance?
Subcontractors should carry their own workers' comp and be able to provide certificates of insurance. If you direct and control their work and they lack coverage, your company could be held liable and their payroll could be included in audits. Key HR can help verify COIs and structure contracts to limit employer exposure.
Quick Facts
- Class Code
- 9031
- Classification
- Pest Control
- Pure Premium Rate
- $3.783 / $100 payroll
- Effective Date
- September 1, 2026
- Source
- WCIRB Approved Filing
Manage Workers' Comp Through a PEO
Key HR provides pay-as-you-go workers' comp for California employers — no large deposits, no audits, better rates.
Get a Quoteor call (800) 922-4133Ready to Simplify Workers' Comp for Class Code 9031?
Key HR provides California employers with pay-as-you-go workers' comp, HR compliance support, and payroll — all through one PEO partnership.