A surety bond is a three-party agreement where the surety company assures the obligee (owner) that the principal (contractor) will perform a contract. Gambling on a contractor or subcontractor whose level of commitment is uncertain or who could become bankrupt halfway through the job can be an economically devastating decision. Surety bonds provide financial security and construction assurance by assuring project owners that contractors will perform the work and pay specified subcontractors, laborers, and material suppliers. Therefore, the surety company must be satisfied that the contractor runs a well-managed, profitable enterprise, keeps promises, deals fairly, and performs obligations in a timely manner. Surety bonds have played an important role in the construction industry’s success, allowing the industry to sustain its position as one of the largest contributors to the nation’s economic stability and growth.