When researching contractors for your residential construction project, you may find some references to subcontractors. What are subcontractors, and what do they do?
What are subcontractors?
Subcontractors are companies that are hired by a general contractor to perform specific components of a construction project.
What do subcontractors do?
Subcontractors are specialists in one element of construction. For example, plumbers, electricians, tile installers, framers, roofers, and others can all perform subcontracted work.
Why does a General Contractor need subcontractors?
Subcontractors make it cost-effective for contractors to perform complete construction services. The costs of carrying employees, such as health insurance and taxes make it so that companies should only maintain staff that are vital to their operations. Components of construction projects that are performed periodically, rather than daily, are less costly when performed by subcontractors.
Should I use a contractor who uses subcontractors?
Yes, you are fine if your contractor is using subcontractors. The use of subcontractors by contractors is a very common practice nowadays. It helps contractors ensure a quality product for the lowest cost possible.
Who does J. Campoli & Sons subcontract?
J. Campoli & Sons has a full construction staff that performs all elements of sitework, building preparation, flatwork, masonry, foundations, framing, carpentry, and more. We do subcontract our mechanical work to a close network of trusted subcontractors who we have worked with for years. This means that plumbing, electrical, and mechanical/HVAC work on our projects are performed by our trusted subcontractors. We know the quality of work that these subcontractors provide meets our criteria for client success.
Why it is important your contractor treats their subcontractors well?
Subcontractors are an extension of the contractor's workforce. When a subcontractor is on-site, they are de facto an employee of the contractor. They are to be trusted with the same responsibilities as the contractor themselves. This is why it is so important to ensure that your contractor treats their subcontractors accordingly, with the responsibility and respect that they would provide their own staff. To do any less would detract from the quality of work and morale on-site.
Why is it important that your contractor has a long relationship with their subcontractors?
It is important that your contractor only uses subcontractors with proven track records, who provide high quality work. You want to make sure that your contractor only uses subcontractors on your site who have proven themselves to be trustworthy, productive, and professional.
J. Campoli & Sons provides only the best workers on our projects. To learn more about our residential construction work, see our residential construction page.