In the construction industry, what does the term "subcontractor" refer to?

The term "subcontractor" refers to a contractor who is hired to perform a specific task or portion of work on a larger project. This role is crucial in the construction industry because it allows general contractors to focus on the overall management and coordination of a project while subcontractors bring specialized skills and expertise to certain aspects of the work, such as electrical, plumbing, or masonry tasks.

Subcontractors typically have their own contracts with the general contractor, enabling them to take responsibility for their specific duties, often within a defined timeframe and budget. This arrangement is beneficial because it helps streamline the construction process, allowing for efficient division of labor and ensuring that specialists are handling the tasks for which they are trained. Consequently, subcontractors are essential components in completing complex construction projects effectively and efficiently.