What is a subcontractor?

A subcontractor is a company or individual that enters into a contract with a main contractor to perform a specific portion of the work on a construction project. Subcontractors are hired by the main contractor to provide specialised services or to perform specific tasks that the main contractor is not equipped to handle.

Examples of subcontractors in construction include electrical contractors, plumbing contractors, HVAC contractors, roofing contractors and specialty trade contractors such as masonry, drywall, painting as well as landscaping.

Subcontractors are typically responsible for providing their own labour, materials, and equipment to complete their portion of the work and are usually paid by the main contractor for their services. They are also responsible for ensuring that the work is completed on time and that it meets the required quality and safety standards.

The main contractor is responsible for managing the subcontractors, ensuring that their work is coordinated with the rest of the project and that it is completed on schedule and within budget. They also need to ensure that the subcontractors are in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, and that they have the necessary insurance and licenses to perform the work.

Subcontractors diagram

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