Construction Financial Glossary

Subcontract Definition

A subcontract is an agreement where a primary contractor hires a secondary party, or subcontractor, to perform specialized tasks within a larger construction project. This is common for services like plumbing, electrical work, or HVAC installation.

How Subcontracts Affect Project Budgets

Subcontracts help primary contractors manage complex projects by allowing specialists to handle specific parts of the job. Financially, subcontracting can streamline costs and improve efficiency by ensuring the work is done by experts. However, managing subcontractor budgets and timelines is critical to keeping the overall project on schedule and within budget.

Best Practices for Managing Subcontracts

Primary contractors should clearly define the scope of work, timelines, and payment terms in each subcontract. It’s important to track subcontractor progress and costs regularly to ensure work is completed on time and within the agreed budget. Related Terms: Main Contractor, Lump Sum Contract, Purchase Order (PO)

FAQs

What is the role of a subcontractor in a construction project?

A: A subcontractor is hired by the primary contractor to complete specialized tasks, such as plumbing or electrical work, within the larger project.

How are subcontractor payments typically handled?

A: Subcontractors are usually paid based on the completion of specific milestones or tasks as outlined in the subcontract agreement.

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