Local Groundworking experts
Over 10,000 rated tradespeople
are ready to help you get your job done
Over 3 million happy homeowners
have found a quality tradesperson
Over 1 million ratings
with 88,000 5* ratings in the last 12 months
Join our group of happy customers
Thousands of 5 star reviews
Read real reviews from customers about their service experiences.
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
Browse Groundwork / Foundations specialists
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Sign up as a groundworking expert
Sign up with Rated People to connect with high-quality homeowners looking for groundwork contractors like you. We do the legwork by providing you with leads, so you only need to quote for jobs that match your skills. With tens of thousands of ads posted every month, there’s always a demand for your services. Join today to grow your business with Rated People.
We are a small family run company that cover all aspects of the building trade, with over 40 years experience. A member of the FEDERATION OF MASTER BUILDERS so our work is monitored and trusted. Our range of work ranges from repointing a wall to newbuid.we have a great team and cater for all aspects of building,renovating and repairing, giving your home the loving care it deserves. TRUSTMARK APPROVED FOR GREEN HOMES GRANT
You can see why Smith & Son get a good rating. You get a friendly builder that does a good job. We employed him to fit a steel beam and a door lintel. The site was tidied up on completion and advice was given about covering the beam and contacting building control. Thanks Ian and team, great job, thoroughly recommended.
We have only just joined rated people and as yet have not built a profile, but with over 24 years experience in all aspects of joinery and building you can be sure you're property is in safe hands. References from previous clients can be obtained.
Paul did an excellent job with this sash window. He was punctual and cleaned up afterwards, so no hassle at all. I would certainly recommend.
Qualified plumbing, heating and gas engineer - 35 years in the trade and 20 years Gas Safe registered. Full bathroom design and installation. New central heating and boiler installations and upgrades. Also all general building works carried out inside and out. Please contact Mark for a quotation.
Mark and George were very friendly and helpful. They cleared my gutters, which were full and blocked with moss and other vegetation! They also replaced the end washer when they discovered it was broken. I would highly recommend them.
City and guilds trained heating engineer and plumber gas safe registered un vented Hot Water registered fully insured can do boiler change .bathrooms .supply and install kitchens . owner of Southdown Building . Carrying out all construction .Extensions. Refurbishment. loft conversions. bathrooms. kitchens. structural work. drainage. groundwork. windows. Doors . porches. many satisfied clients with high recommendations.
Tony got me to send a pic of my existing pump, he ordered a replacement on Sunday and installed first thing Monday morning. Tony showed me how to use it before going. Would definitely recommend Tony
J R Griffiths roofing we specialise at 're roofing, slate tiles and leadwork. also chimney work undertook. Rubber roof and also grp
Reasonably priced, job completed the next day couldn't ask for anything more.
At O.B.Build we want to make your home look amazing inside or outside.We take pride in our work and can handle any job or task.We are clean tidy, polite and always deliver a quality finish.
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.
Very quick, well priced and they did a great job. Thank you
'%3e%3cpath%20fill-rule='evenodd'%20clip-rule='evenodd'%20d='M12.5%2020.392a1%201%200%2001-.54.888l-5.274%202.73a1%201%200%2001-1.435-1.109l1.494-6.588a1%201%200%2000-.306-.964l-4.723-4.254c-.65-.586-.287-1.666.585-1.74l6.105-.514a1%201%200%2000.846-.629L12.5%200v20.392z'%20fill='%23F7DB34'%20/%3e%3c/g%3e%3c/svg%3e){kind=small}
Hi we are a family and friends business who try cater for all home improvements.we try build a relationship with our customers and give the best reasonable price that our customer can afford.and do the best job where the customer is 100% satisfied .
Dougie replied promptly to my advert for work. He gave the best quote and started the next day. Due to the level of work, it took 2 days to complete. Very happy with the Contact and the work.
Welcome to AdvancedWall2Wall, where expertise converges with excellence in house extensions, renovations, and all-encompassing building solutions. As a family-run business with an illustrious legacy of over 30 years in the plumbing and heating industry and a robust background in the building trade, we take pride in transforming your vision into reality. Specializing in house extensions, AdvancedWall2Wall offers a spectrum of services covering every facet of your project, from initial groundwork to the final finishing touches. Our team comprises adept professionals, including experienced gas engineers, bricklayers, and plasterers, all proficient in navigating the complexities of home extensions. From conceptualization to execution, we bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience, ensuring your dream space is realized with precision and care. Our dedicated team of 8-10 professionals is passionate about delivering top-notch craftsmanship in all aspects of building work. Recognizing the importance of a reliable and skilled workforce, we invest in continuous training and development to stay at the forefront of the industry. Whether it's creating a seamless blend of functionality and aesthetics or addressing specific needs within renovations, we bring a wealth of expertise to elevate your project to new heights. At AdvancedWall2Wall, we are a fully insured limited company, placing the safety and security of our clients at the forefront. Our commitment to excellence extends beyond craftsmanship to offer you the peace of mind that comes with working with a reputable and reliable partner. Trust us to breathe life into your ideas, with an unwavering dedication to quality, integrity, and customer satisfaction that sets AdvancedWall2Wall apart in the building industry. Your vision, our expertise – together, we build dreams.
if you need the work done on time and without problems. You must submit your project to Wall2wall. They completed the house extension for us and everything was finished to a high standard and on time. I didn't have to worry about anything, the guys took care of everything, from renting a skip to the final inspection. I am impressed by their professionalism.
we are experience refurbishment contractors. we are reputable and reliable builders, established since 2010 and over 20years experience in building trade. using our skill and materials, we are eager to ensure that our customers are completely satisfied.
Yiltan was quick to come quote and fit us in ahead of both Christmas and our first baby. He was extremely communicative and accommodating of the additional asks we had along the way. His attention to detail is also plain to see. We're over the moon with our kitchen installation and wouldn't hesitate in recommending him to anyone.
Davies Building Services is a well established business based in Herne Bay. We service within a 50mile radius of Herne Bay, we provide a wide range of building services including extensions, loft conversions, garage conversions and barn conversions. We provide excellent communication and offer competitive prices, get in touch for a free quotation and we will get back to you quickly.
Great job, professional to deal with and left job very clean. Would highly recommend.
KP Solutions, from imagination to reality. We are a small family run business with over 20 years experience & pride ourself in giving 100% on all our work. Specialising from grounds work, garden renovation, drive ways, soffits facias, guttering, drainage, repointing and much more.
Job well done very nice and polite guys who came to do the job would book them again if I need them
I have been in the construction industry for 30 years, part of this was teaching for 6 years. I have had my own business for about 7years and in this time I have completed various new builds domestic and commercial, along with renovation projects and extensions.
Richard, from the start of the job to the end, was always professional and on hand to take my calls. He was always reliable and on site everyday. Any issues that arose he dealt with quickly. He always communicated progress and was on schedule throughout.
GRS BUILDING SERVICES
Groundwork / Foundations
Welcome to GRS Building Services, where craftsmanship meets commitment. With a decade of unwavering dedication, we have been providing top-notch construction services across a spectrum of specialties. From robust brickwork and blockwork to seamless extensions, solid substructures, captivating landscaping, and durable fencing – GRS Building Services is your trusted partner for all your construction needs. Our exceptional team is the backbone of our success, ensuring that each project is executed to the highest standards. Whether it's crafting intricate brick details or constructing expansive extensions, our skilled professionals bring precision and expertise to every job. Operating from Chelmsford to Cambridge, we have established ourselves as a reliable and efficient construction partner in the region. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in the quality of our work and the satisfaction of our clients. At GRS Building Services, we understand that your project is not just a construction endeavor; it's a vision brought to life. That's why we take pride in our ability to deliver results that not only meet but exceed your expectations. With a focus on brickwork, blockwork, extensions, substructures, landscaping, and fencing, GRS Building Services is the solution for those seeking a dependable and skilled construction partner.
Scotland's premier building joinery landscaping and tree surgery service we offer a wide range of services carried out by fully trained fully insured professional trades people full free written details provided 21 day cooling off period all work guaranteed insurance work undertaken sepa registered waste carriers no call out charge agents throughout Scotland we cover all of Scotland distance no object established 2008 hundreds of satisfied customers throughout Scotland no job to small
Can't believe the quality of service from these guys amazing service great price very clean would highly recommend.
Andrea did a fantastic job cleaning my flat Tennants and builders left it absolutely filithy Andrea brought all her own cleaning products she worked very hard and fast would definitely hire again again thank you Andrea.
TradeTech, Top rated with Rated people, offer a full exterior/interior property maintenance and restoration service covering North Norfolk and Norwich. Between us we have many years experience and are established and experienced in a variety of trades. We can provide a full range of services (please see list) for our customers in which we take great pride. We have worked on new properties right through to period buildings from the 1600s, replacing and repairing pitched and flat roofs and leadwork, diagnosing water ingress issues, We are also adept in fitting rubber, EPDM roof coverings. Landscaping, restoration/ lime mortar work maintaining large gardens and trees, erecting fencing, turfing etc. We have access to machinery such as diggers and associated equipment so no job too big too manage. We can offer references and photos when required, please check our ratings, we always go the extra mile to ensure our customers get the best job possible. We also offer roof reports for insurance purposes and garden design. Fully insured, we offer a complete and professional service. All work guaranteed as appropriate.
I would highly recommend Tradetech, they worked hard to repair a failing roof. They had to work out solutions as they went along and kept us informed every step of the way.
We put heart in everything we do . We deliver best ratio on quality/pricing . With experience ranging from 5 to 25 years in the Construction Industry our team can manage any job , small or big .
Dante Forge and Building Restoration has been trading for some 30years We carry out all aspects of building renovation and restoration sympathetic to listed and period properties We cover all aspects of metalwork/welding ferrous and none ferrous on site and in house we are HETAS registered engineers qualifying to fit wood/multifuel stoves fireplace alterations together with flue lining and installing chimney systems
Responded quickly to the posting & did a great job.
With our extensive experience in home improvements, refurbishments, and building work, no job is too small or large. We've helped countless homeowners across our local area with creating their dream home. Get in touch today to see how we can help you. In case just a single room refurbishment isn't enough and you want to renovate your entire home then look no further than GNG Building Services Ltd. We have the skills to renovating your home a breeze!!!
A Wonderful man who completed the job in a speedy and professional manner. Job was completed a day earlier which was a pleasant surprise. Look forward to using the services again.
'%20rx='20'%20/%3e%3cg%20fill='%23FFF'%3e%3cpath%20d='M29.376%2016.914c-.555%200-1.006.454-1.006%201.013v37.416c0%20.578.472%201.014%201.097%201.014h34.109a1.007%201.007%200%200%200%20.972-.83%201.012%201.012%200%200%200-.161-.76l-6.446-9.416c-.375-.548-.567-1.085-.586-1.642-.034-.977.516-1.952%201.402-2.483%204.8-2.878%205.808-7.575%205.808-11.009%200-7.335-5.925-13.303-13.207-13.303H29.376ZM63.594%2059.75H29.467c-2.505%200-4.467-1.936-4.467-4.408V17.927c0-2.43%201.963-4.408%204.376-4.408h21.982c9.14%200%2016.577%207.49%2016.577%2016.698%200%205.879-2.46%2010.687-6.944%2013.607l6.17%209.017c1.37%202.002.868%204.752-1.12%206.132a4.336%204.336%200%200%201-2.44.778h-.007Z'%20/%3e%3cpath%20d='M38.767%2027.797c0-.749.603-1.357%201.347-1.357h6.427c3.979%200%206.426%201.72%206.426%205.099v.123c0%203.132-2.325%205.098-6.365%205.098h-3.848l-3.985%203.998V36.76h-.002v-8.963'%20/%3e%3c/g%3e%3cpath%20fill='%23FFF'%20fill-rule='nonzero'%20d='M18.176%2069.2h2.156v3.878h3.976V69.2h2.156V79h-2.156v-3.934h-3.976V79h-2.156v-9.8Zm16.428%207.98c.43%200%20.826-.08%201.19-.238a2.72%202.72%200%200%200%20.931-.658c.257-.28.457-.604.602-.973a3.21%203.21%200%200%200%20.217-1.183V74.1c0-.42-.072-.817-.217-1.19-.145-.373-.35-.7-.616-.98a2.96%202.96%200%200%200-.945-.665%202.873%202.873%200%200%200-1.19-.245c-.439%200-.838.08-1.197.238-.36.159-.667.378-.924.658s-.457.604-.602.973a3.21%203.21%200%200%200-.217%201.183v.028c0%20.42.072.817.217%201.19a2.959%202.959%200%200%200%201.554%201.645c.36.163.758.245%201.197.245Zm-.028%201.988a5.343%205.343%200%200%201-2.086-.399%205.187%205.187%200%200%201-1.645-1.078%204.823%204.823%200%200%201-1.078-1.596%205.029%205.029%200%200%201-.385-1.967V74.1c0-.7.13-1.356.392-1.967a5.075%205.075%200%200%201%201.085-1.61%205.05%205.05%200%200%201%201.652-1.092%205.395%205.395%200%200%201%202.093-.399c.756%200%201.451.133%202.086.399a5.187%205.187%200%200%201%201.645%201.078c.462.453.821.985%201.078%201.596.257.611.385%201.267.385%201.967v.028c0%20.7-.13%201.356-.392%201.967a5.075%205.075%200%200%201-1.085%201.61%205.05%205.05%200%200%201-1.652%201.092%205.395%205.395%200%200%201-2.093.399Zm8.14-9.968h2.324l2.576%204.144%202.576-4.144h2.324V79h-2.142v-6.398l-2.758%204.186h-.056l-2.73-4.144V79h-2.114v-9.8Zm13.152%200h7.392v1.918h-5.25v1.988h4.62v1.918h-4.62v2.058h5.32V79h-7.462v-9.8Zm13.866%209.94a6.49%206.49%200%200%201-2.198-.385%205.817%205.817%200%200%201-1.96-1.183l1.274-1.526c.448.364.908.653%201.379.868.471.215.987.322%201.547.322.448%200%20.796-.082%201.043-.245a.771.771%200%200%200%20.371-.679v-.028a.85.85%200%200%200-.077-.371.778.778%200%200%200-.294-.301%203.079%203.079%200%200%200-.602-.28c-.257-.093-.59-.191-1.001-.294a12.201%2012.201%200%200%201-1.344-.406%203.787%203.787%200%200%201-1.022-.553%202.237%202.237%200%200%201-.651-.819c-.154-.327-.231-.733-.231-1.218v-.028c0-.448.084-.852.252-1.211.168-.36.404-.67.707-.931a3.183%203.183%200%200%201%201.085-.602c.42-.14.882-.21%201.386-.21a5.86%205.86%200%200%201%201.981.322%205.743%205.743%200%200%201%201.659.924l-1.12%201.624a7.1%207.1%200%200%200-1.288-.707%203.292%203.292%200%200%200-1.26-.259c-.42%200-.735.082-.945.245-.21.163-.315.366-.315.609v.028c0%20.159.03.296.091.413.06.117.17.222.329.315s.376.182.651.266c.275.084.623.182%201.043.294.495.13.936.278%201.323.441.387.163.714.36.98.588.266.229.467.497.602.805.135.308.203.677.203%201.106v.028c0%20.485-.089.917-.266%201.295a2.66%202.66%200%200%201-.742.952%203.353%203.353%200%200%201-1.134.588%204.924%204.924%200%200%201-1.456.203Z'%20/%3e%3c/g%3e%3c/svg%3e)
Get our app for homeowners
- Send messages and get notifications from tradespeople
- Add photos to get more accurate quotes
- View tradespeople's profiles