Trades & Field Service

    Construction

    Skilled trades that build, remodel, or repair structures.

    Definition

    Includes framing, roofing, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, drywall, paint, flooring. Heavily regulated — license, permit, lien, and insurance rules vary widely by state and municipality.

    Related terms

    General contractor (GC)

    The lead contractor responsible for coordinating a construction project.

    Mechanic's lien

    A legal claim against a property by a contractor who hasn't been paid for work performed.

    Permit

    Government authorization required before performing certain types of work.