subappalto

Subappalto, or subcontracting, is the practice of a contractor delegating part of the work required by a contract to another company, the subcontractor. It is commonly used in sectors such as construction, engineering, information technology, and professional services to involve specialized expertise, extend capacity, or manage workload.

The main contractor remains legally responsible to the client for the full performance of the contract, including quality, deadlines, safety, and compliance with applicable laws and standards. Subcontractors are responsible to the main contractor under their own subcontract and must comply with the relevant regulations, including labor, tax, and safety requirements. The client’s or contracting authority’s contract may also impose obligations on disclosure, approval, and qualification of subcontractors.

Regulatory frameworks in many jurisdictions regulate subcontracting to ensure transparency, fair competition, and protection of workers’ rights. Contracts often require notification or consent before subcontracting and may set limits on the portion of work that can be subcontracted or require that subcontractors meet the same standards as the primary contractor. The main contractor typically remains liable to the client for the acts and omissions of subcontractors.

Process and risks: the main contractor selects and contracts with subcontractors, coordinates activities, and manages risk, including insurance, warranties, and performance guarantees. Subcontracting can introduce risks such as delays, quality control challenges, or non-compliance, which must be mitigated through careful selection, oversight, and clear contractual terms. In public procurement, subcontracting rules are often designed to preserve competition and accountability.