What is meant by "subcontracting" in the construction industry?

Subcontracting in the construction industry refers to the practice of hiring third-party firms or individuals to perform specific tasks or components of a larger project. This arrangement allows the main contractor to focus on the overall management and coordination of the project while leveraging specialized expertise and resources from subcontractors who may have specific skills, tools, or experience relevant to those tasks.

For instance, a general contractor may subcontract electrical work, plumbing, or roofing to specialized firms. This not only enhances efficiency but also promotes higher quality work due to the subcontractors’ expertise in their respective fields. By delegating these specific responsibilities, the primary contractor can optimize the workflow, maintain timelines, and manage costs more effectively.

In contrast, the other options presented focus on different aspects of project management or labor that do not accurately capture the definition of subcontracting within the construction sector.