Subbie
By George Giannakakis · B.Arch.Studies · M.Arch (UniSA) · RLA300580
Last reviewed: · How we research
"The builder uses the same subbies on every job, that is a good sign."
Subbie explained in detail
A subcontractor. Almost every trade on a house build is a subbie engaged by the builder, not an employee. Matters to you because if a builder goes broke the subbies do not get paid, and unpaid subbies sometimes stop work or, rarely, try to claim against the owner.
The collapse of Bathla Group has left thousands of buyers facing uncertainty and raises an important question for anyone building a home: what actually happens if your builder goes under? In this episode, we explain the critical differences between a developer collapse and a builder collapse, how Victoria's new Home Warranty scheme works, and the practical steps every homeowner can take to protect themselves.
Watch full episodeRelated Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about subbie
In most states, no. Security of payment laws let a subbie claim against the builder, not the homeowner. But check your contract, and never pay a subbie directly unless your builder and contract allow it, or you may pay twice.
More Terms in Tradie Slang
Verify against the binding rules in your state
BuildPilot is an independent Australian building platform, we publish guidance, we don't hold a building licence. Every Australian residential build must comply with the National Construction Code plus state-specific Acts and consumer-protection law. The authorities below are the primary sources of truth for the rules that actually apply to your project.
National
The primary national set of technical building standards that every Australian build must comply with. Volume 2 covers Class 1 & 10 buildings (most homes).
Specific material, product and method standards (e.g. AS 3700 masonry, AS 1684 timber framing) referenced by the NCC.
National peak body for residential builders. Publishes the most widely used home-building contracts and consumer guidance.
National peak body for general builders. Publishes commercial and residential contracts and industry guidance.
By state & territory
Links above open the public website of each authority. BuildPilot is not affiliated with these bodies and does not act on their behalf. Information on this page is general - check the current edition of the NCC and the relevant state Act for binding requirements.
We use cookies to improve your experience. Cookies on. Learn more