When it comes to construction projects, subcontractor vs contractor play a major role. However, there are differences that separate the roles of subcontractors and contractors. If you’re planning to start a construction project, you might wonder if you should hire a contractor or subcontractor.
A contractor typically manages the whole project from start to end. They manage the costs and work of each task included in the project. Contractors hire subcontractors to handle specific tasks. For example, there would be a separate subcontractor for planning, electrical work, plumbing, or carpentry work. It is important to understand the difference between contractor and subcontractor for effective hiring.
Contractor vs. Subcontractor: Roles and Responsibilities Explained
A contractor is in charge of managing the whole construction project. They handle planning, budgeting, and overseeing all worksite duties. While, a subcontractor specializes in specialized tasks, like electrical work or plumbing, and works under the management of a contractor.
1. Project Management
Contractors manage the task workflow from start to finish, making sure that the project meets deadlines and quality standards. Subcontractors, however, manage their specific area of the project.
2. Hiring and Contracts
A contractor is generally employed by the property owner, while subcontractors are hired by the general contractor. Contractors manage the subcontractor and workers’ hiring process and assign specific jobs to each worker.
3. Payment Structure
Contractors charge a percentage of the total cost of a project. General contractors usually take 10-20% of the project cost but it can vary with the size and complexity of the project. Meanwhile, the subcontractors charge $50 to $150 per hour depending on the expertise and task.
4. Independence and Scope
General contractors oversee more than one responsibility and can bring about numerous specialized subcontractors for unique jobs. Subcontractors work independently on a single task.
Who are Contractors?
A contractor is an expert worker who manages an entire construction project from start to end. They have responsibilities for making plans, coordinating, and ensuring that every task or process is completed effectively. Contractors in addition hire subcontractors to do numerous jobs in a construction project.
Contractors act as the main contact between the client and all workers. Contractors are of different kinds inclusive of General Contractors who deal with all aspects of the project. While, There are subcontractors who take care of precise tasks which include plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and so on.
Services offered by a Contractor in a construction project include:
Project Management: Overseeing the entire construction project from start to end.
Hiring Subcontractors: Hiring and coping with subcontractors for unique tasks (e.g., plumbing, electrical, etc).
Budgeting and Estimating Costs: Preparing cost estimates and saving finances on projects.
Procurement of Materials: Sourcing and purchasing materials required for the construction.
Permitting and Inspections: Handling permits, and inspections, and ensuring construction compliance with local rules.
Scheduling: Creating and keeping the project deadline to make sure deadlines are met.
Site Preparation: Preparing the construction site for construction, such as cleaning land and bringing materials.
Construction and Renovation: Managing the physical construction or renovation work.
Quality Control: Ensuring the work meets quality and safety standards.
Who are Subcontractors?
Subcontractors are specialized workers hired by a contractor to do specific tasks during a construction project. Unlike a general contractor, who manages the entire project, a subcontractor works on specific jobs like plumbing, electrical work, or carpentry. They do a subcontractor contract to do a selected task and work under the supervision of a contractor. The general contractor still checks and manages the work of subcontractors.
Multiple subcontractors are hired for different tasks which include plumbing, electrical work, painting, carpentry, etc. They have their own teams to work on the tasks. They make sure that every system works smoothly in the building.
Services offered by a Subcontractor include:
Electrical work – Installing wiring, lights, and electric systems.
Plumbing offerings – Handling pipes, drainage, and water systems.
Carpentry – Building structures, shelves, and wood furniture.
Roofing – Installing and repairing roofs for buildings.
HVAC set up – Installing heating, ventilation, and air conditioner systems.
Painting and finishing – Adding paint, coatings, and final finishes.
Concrete work – Pouring and leveling concrete for foundations and flooring.
Landscaping – Designing and maintaining outdoor areas around the building.
Conclusion
Subcontractors and contractors, both play a major role in a construction project. However, their roles and responsibilities vary. A contractor is a professional who manages the whole project while subcontractors work under the contractor and manage specific tasks.
It is important to understand the differences between contractor and subcontractor before starting your construction project. So, you know when to hire a contractor or a subcontractor.
FAQs
Q1. What is the major role of a contractor in a construction project?
A contractor is the point of contact between the client and the workers.
Q2. Fee of contractor?
General contractors usually take 10-20% of the project cost but it can vary with the size and complexity of the project.
Q3. Fee of a subcontractor?
The subcontractors charge $50 to $150 per hour depending on the expertise and task.
