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Craig got in touch quickly, gave me a rough estimate over the phone and answered all my questions. Surveyor arrived on time, gave instant quote. Price was good. Michael and (another) Craig turned up to do the job on the day, time given. Good, tidy job. Can't fault anything, from start to finish!! Would recommend!

Mary

George and his team are experienced builders, replaced my front door with a custom frame/sidelights and raising the floor level in the hallway quite quickly - in fact, they were the only who came next day, gave a quote straightaway and were ready to start in just couple of days. They also had all the necessary tools and materials, were ready to buy something additional quickly on the day - if further adjustments were required to fit everything as I asked. Thanks a lot for your help, guys!

Dmitry

Highly recommend. These guys did a fantastic job of constructing our pergola and decking. Very hardworking and reliable. The job was completed in the time frame agreed and to a very high standard. We would 100% use them again.

Holly

At Rated People, we connect homeowners with trusted local groundworking experts. With over 10,000 tradespeople on our platform and over 3 million happy customers, you can rely on us to find the right professional for your groundwork needs. Check previous reviews to see the quality of work our tradespeople deliver. If you need more information before getting started, read through our helpful guide below. If you are a groundworking or foundation laying expert, click on the link below to sign up with Rated People.

  • What is groundwork?
  • Cost of groundwork/foundation laying
  • How do I know if the job has been done well?
  • Other groundworking FAQs
  • Sign up as a groundworking expert

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Take a look at our Groundwork / Foundations specialists profiles, read reviews and request quotes directly.

Local Groundworking experts

What is groundwork?

Groundwork refers to the essential preparatory work required to create a stable foundation for construction projects. This includes tasks such as site clearance, excavation, laying foundations, and installing drainage systems. Groundworkers ensure that the site is properly prepared, providing a solid base for buildings, driveways, and other structures. Their expertise is crucial for the long-term stability and safety of any construction project.

Cost of groundwork/foundation laying

The cost of groundwork and foundation laying can vary widely based on several factors, including the size and complexity of the project, soil conditions, and the type of foundation required. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you understand what to expect when budgeting for your groundwork project.

Factors Influencing the Cost

  1. Project Size and Scope: Larger projects will naturally incur higher costs due to the increased amount of materials and labour required. The scope of the work, including the number of tasks such as site clearance, excavation, and foundation laying, also impacts the total cost.
  2. Soil Conditions: The type and condition of the soil at your site play a significant role in determining costs. Difficult soil conditions, such as rocky or clay-heavy soils, can make excavation more challenging and time-consuming, increasing labour costs.
  3. Type of Foundation: The type of foundation required for your project will affect the overall cost. Common types include:
    • Strip Foundations: Suitable for lighter structures, typically costing between £75 to £120 per metre.
    • Trench Fill Foundations: Often used for larger structures, costing around £100 to £150 per metre.
    • Raft Foundations: Used in areas with poor soil conditions, generally costing between £150 to £250 per square metre.
    • Piled Foundations: Necessary for very unstable soil conditions, costing significantly more due to the specialised equipment required.
  4. Depth of Excavation: Deeper excavations may be required for certain types of foundations or in areas with specific soil conditions. Deeper excavations increase labour and equipment costs.
  5. Access to the Site: Sites that are difficult to access may incur additional costs due to the need for specialised equipment or additional labour to transport materials and machinery.
  6. Additional Services: Additional groundwork services such as drainage installation, landscaping, or retaining walls will add to the overall cost. Proper drainage is particularly important to prevent water-related issues that could compromise the foundation.

Average Cost Estimates

While prices can vary, here are some general estimates to help you plan your budget:

  • Site Clearance and Preparation: £5 to £15 per square metre.
  • Excavation: £50 to £80 per cubic metre, depending on soil conditions and depth required.
  • Strip Foundations: £75 to £120 per metre.
  • Trench Fill Foundations: £100 to £150 per metre.
  • Raft Foundations: £150 to £250 per square metre.
  • Piled Foundations: £250 to £400 per metre, depending on depth and complexity.

How do I know if the job has been done well?

  • Finished in a Timely Manner: The project should be completed within the agreed time frame without unnecessary delays.
  • All Drainage Properly Installed: Proper drainage installation is crucial to prevent waterlogging and ensure the longevity of the foundation.
  • Flat Surface to Begin Work On: The groundwork should result in a level and stable surface, ready for the next phase of construction.

At Rated People, our tradespeople are reviewed by previous customers, so you can see if they have done a good job before hiring them. Additionally, read through our guide on our local builders page to find out what kinds of questions you should be asking beforehand.

Other groundworking FAQs

How long do groundworks take?

The duration of groundwork projects can vary based on the size and complexity of the job. On average, groundwork for a standard residential project can take between 1 to 3 weeks. Larger or more complex projects may take longer.

Is a groundworker a builder?

Groundworkers specialise in preparing the site for construction, which includes tasks like excavation, foundation laying, and drainage installation. While they play a critical role in the building process, they are not typically involved in the actual construction of the building.

Do I need planning permission for groundwork?

In many cases, groundwork can be carried out without planning permission, especially for minor projects. However, larger projects or those involving significant changes to the landscape may require planning permission. It’s important to check with your local council to ensure compliance with regulations.

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We offer a comprehensive range of building services to residential and commercial customer. With a professional team of experienced trades men such as plumbers,electricians,decorators and carpenters.We cover all aspects of work from start to finish.

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Reviewed by Colin on 6/9/2024

Jan and David were immediately available to refurbish our downstairs toilet. Was very polite and did a lot of other stuffs for us as well. It's looks a look better than before and we are happy with it.

I have been in the home improvement market for over 35 years starting out in design, in the bespoke luxury kitchen industry, in most cases in the London areas. Which very quickly evolved onto building Orangeries and extensions to accommodate my Clients dream kitchen. As time went by I found my projects growing to encompass single story and double extensions, loft conversions, wine cellars, pool houses including the swimming pool! Then more recently outdoor kitchens. I have worked on large projects and small whatever the remit,my customers always get 100% from me from inception to conclusion of the project,I help & liaise with design/project management where needed. I work on site every day so am on hand to deal with architects , planning & Building control ,I also make a mean cup of tea! I work with all trades that I bring to the project,listen to customers from design right through to build to ensuring they get the space that they envisioned plus more! Hope to see you soon.

We do all aspects of bathrooms and minor building works, we take pride in our work and enjoy leaving the customers with a smile on their faces.

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Reviewed by Dee-Dee on 11/8/2024

Our build prerequisites were to divide a room & close an open archway, build two extra walls, move steps and a handrail, put in two entrances with doors for the new build and paint & carpet this area. Matthew (MDCC Construction) was qualified and very helpful – giving us good advice. He is an honest, tidy and thorough builder, willing to accommodate the building manager's questions and happy to make amendments. We were thrilled with the speed and finish of this build, and we will definitely use them again.

Residential and commercial building contractor specialising in kitchens, bathrooms and full renovations. With over 12 years experience in the building industry our attention to detail is paramount.

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Reviewed by David on 23/7/2024

Very quick, well priced and they did a great job. Thank you

I’m hard working and friendly person that like to meeting new people and help them. Doing carpentery, made to measure furniture, loft conversions and extensions, staircases, fitt kitchens and bedrooms, wood flooring, assembling furniture and fitting it, also fitting doors and windows, change locks. Also can undertake any handyman and garden work. I’m finished building and carpentry colledge 21 years ago. Ever since enjoing to work in building trade.

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Reviewed by Chris on 26/3/2025

Really pleased with the job Andriy did, he was professional and finished job to high standard. Would not hesitate to recommend him. Many thanks.

Welcome to My Trade Services Rated People profile. We are a small but highly qualified and experienced team of Multiskilled trades who offer a friendly and professional service. Capable of undertaking over 200 repair jobs in the home including Repairs, Bathrooms, Kitchens, Bespoke carpentry, Plumbing, Gas, Electrics inc. rewires), Tiling, Flooring and much more! You can find us in NW London and we cover North AND West London and also surrounding counties such as Harrow and Herts. Fully tooled,  insured and experienced enough to get round problems others cant due to our knowledge and wisdom, all you have to do is be able to afford the experts! We are not cheap, but neither are these lead platforms, so you are paying for other things except the skills and knowledge. This is highly valuable to all our customers and why we are the 1st call. All works (except repairs) are guaranteed for 12 months (excluding materials) so you have peace of mind if anything doesnt go right 1st time. All bookings are subject to terms and conditions being accepted but we are flexible for repeat customers so hope you become one and have the best minds in London in your contact list. Please note, we dont just work for anyone, customers are screened just as we are and we will tell you straight how we will do the job or we wont do it. its blunt, but it works and we only do what works. My Trade Services will never waste time as this is our most precious asset of all and is only appreciated when there's little left. Talk to a specialist today and find out how you can solve your issue with us. My Trade Services Terms * Our rates are fair and charged in increments, so no surprise costs! However, if your property has any surprises, then we will let you know and charge accordingly for extra work needed in order to achieve the initial task. Please note, due to recent scams and the cost of living etc, all first time customers are required to pay up front for all materials prior to installation. All NEW customers will be asked to pay something prior to booking. We do not offer a pay on completion service sorry. Nor do we offer any form of credit or do anything that isnt included. Please see gallery to see what to expect and our ratings for the outcomes others have enjoyed using us. Then get in touch! Open most times, whats app available. See you soon! MTS

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Reviewed by Norman on 22/8/2018

Lee was very proactive, helpful and professional and really worked hard to do an excellent job.

Dear Customer, We are a construction company with over 25 years experience. We undertake all aspects of building work, including new builds, extensions, lofts, total renovations, new bathroom and kitchens. All work guaranteed and certified for, GasSafe and NiCEiC approved on completion.

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Reviewed by Paul on 21/11/2024

Great job good price

Dedicated to our craft. We cover all aspects of building work including: - home extentions - renovations - conversions - plumbing and heating - kitchens - roofing - all general building work

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Reviewed by Mike on 29/4/2022

Gary and his team are very professional and did an excellent job. Gary takes a great pride in his work and does all the preparation necessary to ensure a smooth and efficient job. Had extra work done re rendering, driveway and patio as their work was so good. Would recommend

A family run local business trading in North wales for over 20 years.We undertake all aspects of home improvements from a simple tap swap to full house refurbishments. Customer satisfaction is our number one goal!

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Reviewed by Adam on 9/8/2024

Didn't clear the weeds and bramble from behind the side gate other than that they did what I ask them to do

Hi we been doing these jobs for last 20 years .what are the company does ! hard landscaping and soft Landscaping? brickwork paving and patios wooden and Concrete sheds ?fencing general tidy and drainage? And driveways?. Please give us a try you’re not going to be disappointed as you can see all my Your writing is five star thank you?

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Reviewed by Dave on 26/7/2024

Shpend and his team did a great job for us. Really good value for money, and great quality of work. He was very professional and gave his expert advice when needed to help decide on best approach in resolving pre-existing issues. We would definitely use this company again.

DX Construction ltd is a building company based in sheffield south yorkshire with Experienced and qualified builders With over 11 years experience in the trade we pride ourselves on perfection & 5 STAR quality. We have the skills, knowledge and creativity to solve your site specific problems. References available. Please get in touch for a great reliable and professional service We cover following areas: - Sheffield - Rotherham - Doncaster - Chesterfield - and other surrounding areas SERVICES WE PROVIDE 1 Extension 2 Loft conversions 3 Refurbishments & full house renovation 4 Roofing 5 Chimney removal 6 Landscaping and garden work 7 Carpentry & joinery 8 Kitchen & bathroom fitting 9 Electrical & plumbing   Please get in touch for a great reliable and professional service

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Reviewed by Sarah on 29/11/2022

Andrea and his team were excellent. He is very reliable, efficient and hard working. He made a very challenging job look easy and did some extra things for me that weren’t included in the quote, without charging extra. He got back to me quickly and the whole job took less than 2 weeks from me posting to completion. I would definitely recommend this company and I’m sure I will ask him to do other jobs for me.

With over 20 years experience in the building industry specialising in extensions , new builds , conversions , and structural alterations we can provide you anything from a small brick wall to a full turnkey project with all certifications We always aim to elevate expectations.

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Reviewed by richard on 3/8/2017

insisted on sealing around conservatory roof with silcone sealant instead of fitting flashing even after repeatedly asking for flashing to be fitted, when roof inevitably leaked would not return to rectify and not returning phone calls/texts

We are an electrical contractors with over 20 years of experience. NICEIC registration. Always delivering friendly and exceptional service. Public liability insurance for your peace of mind.

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Reviewed by Tunji on 7/10/2024

Great price, prompt and professional.

Renovation company based in Crawley, West Sussex. Specializing in all types of interior work. Decoration, skimming and wallpapering. Bathroom refurbishments. Kitchen refurbishments. Full house refurbishments. Real wood, laminate and vinyl flooring. New plumbing installations and old plumbing maintenance. Wall removals, RSJ inserting and room reconfigurations. Any size project from small to large scale is welcome! Offering over 20 years experience, high quality with minimum hassle!

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Reviewed by Albert on 3/12/2023

Slavek and his team worked meticulously to complete our bathroom refurbishment to our requirements. They were prompt everyday, gave us some good constructive advice and carried out work to a high standard. We will definitely be using his company for future projects and will recommend them to friends. Great service!!

Linked builders Ltd is a family run buisness, we take great pride in our work. Our work team have experiance of over 20 years in the building trade; giving you great advice and workmanship. Please take a look at our profile! Many Thanks

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Reviewed by Jay on 28/3/2025

Came to price up the job on time and gave a reasonable quote. Did the work to a good standard within a few days of quoting. Cleaned up well after the job aswell.

Hi my name is Peter, I’m new to this site so I have no ratings at the moment I have been in the building business for over 20yrs and have done work on most aspects of building, but I enjoy joinery work the best. I am a family man with a daughter and two step daughters and an amazing wife and I’m looking forward to starting my new adventure with rated people

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Reviewed by Diane on 20/8/2022

Was unable to complete the job due to dates being changed. Used only text to change at short notice twice. Disappointed there was no conversation to discuss.

A&K CONTRACTOR ARE SPECIALISTS IN ALL TYPES OF BATHROOMS AND HOUSE REFURBISHMENTS. WE PRIDE OURSELVES IN HANDLING EVERY PROJECT OURSELVES .IT GIVES CUSTOMERS PEACE OF MIND TO KNOW THEY CAN TALK TO US AT ANY TIME ABOUT HOW THEIR PROJECT IS PROCEEDING. OUR ATTENTION IS FOCUSED ON DELIVERING A FRIENDLY SERVICE WITH HIGH QUALITY WORK FOR EVERY CUSTOMER ,WHILE AT THE SAME TIME OFFERING GOOD VALUE FOR MONEY. OUR ETHOS IS; -PROFESSIONAL PREPARATION -MAINTAINING AND CLEAN AND TIDY ENVIROMENT -HIGH STANDARD FINISH -POLITE AND PUNCTUAL -REALIABILITY -GREAT VALUE FOR MONEY.

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Reviewed by Karl on 28/3/2025

Top guys. Completed the job quickly and professionally.

GARAGE CONVERSION SPECIALISTS with a vast portfolio and customer base, our company has been established 10 years. Fully insured, all employees and sub contractors cscs trained/qualified. All works completed to a high standard at competitive prices

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Reviewed by Beryl on 4/10/2024

Thank you James, and ? ,sorry not sure of your name, for an excellent job replacing our bath sealant, then replacing broken door knob and fitting new toilet seat. All relatively small jobs but still booked us in swiftly and did an great job for a reasonable price. . Would use again and would highly recommend.

London Development uk ltd is our company, we have been trading for over 12 years in the construction business. - We are a fully insured company with a big portfolio of jobs completed and we are friendly and reliable on any work and business that is coming across. - We can do big jobs as new buildings or full refurbishments, basements, extensions, lofts conversions etc and also we can do small jobs as bathroom refurbishments or even smaller is always space and time for a new job. - We guarantee you that you will get the best workmanship on your job with best skills and acknowledge in the construction industry, time effective and costly effective for customers. Try our company and you will gain the benefits!!!

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Reviewed by Rita on 25/12/2023

Peter contacted me and was amazing, professional with his quote and recommendation. Very clean, tidy service and very open and honest. Peter and his team are excellent builders.

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