How do contractors work?

A contractor, or general contractor, oversees a construction site. Contractors are responsible for supplying the necessary equipment, material, labor, and services to complete your project. They hire specialized subcontractors to perform either a portion or all of the work.

What does it mean to be a contractor?

A contractor – also called a contract worker, independent contractor or freelancer – is a self-employed worker who operates independently on a contract basis.

Do you need a contract when hiring an independent contractor?

For every independent contractor who works for your company, you should a signed contract on file, signed by both parties. It may sound like overkill to require you to have a contract for each independent contractor relationship, but some agreements need to be put in writing. The contract protects both of you in the event of a dispute.

When does a contractor become an employee in the UK?

Or one project ends, and you offer them another, bigger project…and then another. While it may still say ‘contractor’ on paper, if the working relationship has evolved into one that more closely resembles employer-employee, you run the risk of opening yourself up to legal disputes and hefty fines. Here’s what to watch out for:

Are there more contractors or full time employees?

Today’s business leaders eventually all end up facing the contractor vs. full-time employee dilemma. Experts anticipate the U.S. workforce will be 40% contract workers and freelancers by 2020. If you only hire one type of employee, you could be missing out on some valuable opportunities.

What’s the difference between an employee and a contractor?

Contractors Contractors run their own business and sell their services to others, unlike employees who work in someone else’s business. Contractors — sometimes called independent contractors, sub-contractors or subbies — generally use their own processes, tools and methods to complete the work.

Why do you want to be a contractor?

Experience a wide variety of work – by moving from project to project or working on multiple projects at the same time, contracting opens up opportunities where you can develop a varied experience and build an impressive CV.

How much do you get paid as a contractor?

Depending on your individual skills and on the state of the industry in which you work (or the market in general) you can command very high rates of pay. As a contractor, you are paid for every hour that you work, as well as having the opportunity to work extra hours at very good rates.

Do You need Your Own Office to be a contractor?

Some contractors will always aim to work on a customer site – this usually works best if you are handling one project at a time. However, if you are working for multiple clients, then realistically you will need your own office. This does not have to be anything fancy. Many contractors operate from a spare bedroom or even the dining table.