A subcontractor is a person or company that is hired by a general contractor to perform a specific task or set of tasks as part of a construction project. Subcontractors are typically specialists in a particular trade, such as electrical work, plumbing or roofing. They are responsible for performing the work that is specified in the subcontract agreement and are usually paid on a time and materials basis. Subcontractors are usually required to have their own insurance coverage and are not employees of the general contractor.