Can contractors subcontract?
Sarah Duran
Published Mar 21, 2026
The direct contractor can enter into a Subcontract Agreement with the subcontractor for the project. In some instances the direct contractor will contract with the same subcontractor on many jobs.
What is typical contractor markup on materials?
For most contractors, the minimum markup is 27% with a reasonable markup in the 40% range. Trades and remodelers have higher indirect and overhead cost structures related to sales; thus their markups are in the 70% to as much as 100% range. Materials is just one of the many direct costs of construction.
How much should a contractor markup?
Average General Contractor Rates General contractors (GC) typically charge about 10% to 20% of your total construction project cost, also refered to as “cost plus.” For larger projects, you might pay closer to 25% for their services.
You can be a contractor on one project and a subcontractor on another. You can begin working on one project as a subcontractor and then find yourself subcontracting out your own portion of the project to another subcontractor.
Is a subcontractor the same as a contractor?
When clients hire you to work on a specific project or on a freelance basis, you are usually considered a contractor. Subcontractors are companies or individual people that you hire to help you complete a project.
When to use a subcontractor or independent contractor?
The general rule of thumb is if they don’t meet the requirements of an independent contractor or subcontractor, they land right here. Now, when it comes to your workers’ compensation insurance, it’s important to keep a few key things in mind.
Do you have to file taxes as an independent contractor?
Also note that independent contractors may have their own employees or may hire other independent contractors (subcontractors). In either case, they should be aware of their tax responsibilities, including filing and reporting requirements, for these workers. There are certain situations where a 1099-NEC is not required.
What are the responsibilities of a subcontractor in construction?
Job responsibilities of a subcontractor include: Independent contractors, or general contractors, are self-employed and own their own construction business. They may build residential or public structures, including homes and bridges.
What’s the difference between an employee and a subcontractor?
When it comes to hiring for specific tasks or roles, the differences between employees, subcontractors, independent contractors and contractor laborers can get confusing. Then throw in what you need to know about how they impact your payroll and workers’ compensation insurance policy, and you might end up feeling pretty lost.