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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
- 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.
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JN PRO BUILD LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
We are small independent building firm who work to extremely high standards, Over the many years we have undertaken 1000s of full building conversions, Inc bathrooms,kitchen, load bearing walls, studwork, first and second fix joinery, first and second fix plumbing. We our fully qualified and work to the very highest standards I
J.E Landscapes & Construction
Groundwork / Foundations
A professional, reliable and experienced tradesman with over 14 years of construction and landscaping experience. JE Landscapes and Construction has been in business for over 10 years and holds a wealth of knowledge in all aspects of landscaping and construction, specialising in the following: - Patios - Fencing - Extensions - Structural changes - Groundwork’s (including drainage, underpinning, soak away systems) - Oak sleeper beds - Concrete slabs -Turf / Astro
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Comprehensive Building and Landscaping Services by R Richards Builders & Landscaping R Richards Builders & Landscaping is a family-owned business with over 30 years of experience, specialising in a wide range of construction and landscaping services. Our Services: - General Building: We undertake all types of general building work, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship in every project. - New Builds: From planning to completion, we provide comprehensive new build services tailored to your specifications. - Extensions: Whether you’re looking to add more space or enhance your property’s value, our extension services are designed to meet your needs. Renovations: We offer expert renovation services to transform and modernize your existing spaces. - Restorations: Our team is skilled in restoring properties to their former glory, preserving historical integrity while updating functionality. - Groundworks: We handle all groundwork projects, including foundations, drainage systems, and site preparation. - Landscaping: Our landscaping services cover everything from garden design and maintenance to hardscaping and outdoor structures. Why Choose Us? With a commitment to delivering the highest standards of service, we pride ourselves on completing projects on time and within budget. Our team is passionate about quality and customer satisfaction, ensuring that every project, no matter the size, is executed with precision and care.
These builders did turn up and have worked on the chimney. However, I've not received photos of the job they did or received a guarantee as promised. There is damp in the wall still After several attempts to contact them, I've recieved nothing back.
My self and my workers have a nice way of working with clients we’re friendly polite and very clean and respectful of other people homes as we too have lovely homes . We work hard to keep clients happy and resolve problems that come there way through building projects. We also can show many recommendations from our own neighbours to people we have never met . Many thanks mark
Mark was very responsive and really helpful and informative when providing a quote for some underpinning and structural repair work. Would definitely recommend.
Brickbuilds
Groundwork / Foundations
Welcome to Brick Builds! We are a well-established building company in the South West with over 17 years of experience in both traditional and contemporary building techniques. Brick Builds offers a comprehensive service from design to completion, working closely with our clients to provide solutions tailored to their needs. Rest assured, all our tradesmen are professional, courteous, and respectful of both property and clients at all times. We look forward to working with you on your project.
Rated-Trades
Groundwork / Foundations
Friendly fully qualified joiner, floor fitter (herringbone specialist ) and handy man Class my self as the gentleman Joiner giving you the best from start to finish
UTB CONSTRUCTION was established in 2013 and is general contractor offering construction services in terms of full and part renovations houses, extensions, lofts conversion , first fix Carpentry, second fix Carpentry , bathroom fittings, kitchens fittings new built houses and summer homes,Drylining , plastering & Rendering, Decorating, specialist with driveways resin bond, polished concrete, paterne imprinted concrete,tarmac, and block paving.
Dimitrios did an excellent job working rapidly and efficiently and very willing to do extra work to achieve perfection
Martons Building Contractors
Groundwork / Foundations
Martons Building Contractors is a trusted name in construction, known for our problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and innovative designs. Our mission is simple: to exceed the expectations of every client we serve. We offer a range of services including conversions, extensions, groundworks, new builds, and roofing. With a combined experience of over 100 years, our team of 5-6 professionals ensures that every project is executed with precision. While our core team is small, we have a network of reliable subcontractors for electrical and plumbing work. Based in Leeds, North Yorkshire, and Lancaster, we are dedicated to serving these areas with quality construction services. Choose Martons Building Contractors for reliable craftsmanship and a commitment to excellence in every project. All contracting works available and covered in and around Yorkshire.
John McKinney Builders have been building on over 50 years of experience, established in 1970. We carry out extensions, loft conversions, refurbishments, garage builds & conversions , kitchen fitting , heating etc. From planning to completion. Our quality of workmanship & finish is second to none, no snagging needed or call back. WE SPECIALISE IN THE INSTALLATION OF RSJ,s
E&F BUILD
Groundwork / Foundations
At E&F Build Ltd, we believe that every home should be a perfect reflection of its owners. With over 10 years of professional experience, we take pride in our craftsmanship and unwavering commitment to quality. Our team values integrity, transparency, and professionalism, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience for every client. From the first consultation to the final touches, we’re dedicated to bringing your vision to life with care and the expertise needed, treating your home like our own!
My names mr Ackleton my company is Goldstar construction. I have been in the building trade for over 15 years, I have taken on lots of jobs from exterior painting, brickwork, roof repairs, landscaping and lots more. I have had many satisfied customers.
THE GCD GROUP LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
GCD Developments is a multi-disciplinary property practice, covering property development, project management, architecture and interior design across London and United Kingdom. Whilst every project is unique, the philosophy behind each is unwavering: at GCD we strive to craft environments which are not just beautiful, but faultlessly functional.
We are a friendly family run business of 3 generation's We offer a complete building service with all of our trades men in house. we have completed some major restorations such as Vermont hotel 108 bathrooms county hotel full conversion many extensions and house builds also maintenance for landlords and home owners give us a try and hope to see you soon.
Excellent. Did the work with no bother. Good price.
We are a family run Painting and Decorating company based within Writtle, Essex. Established in 1992 by one of the partners, Martin Hoban. Specialising in Internal and External Finishes and Redecorations. Our aim is to provide a professional and reliable service to our clients.
Full property renovations, extensions, loft conversions, outbuildings & more.
Absolutely useless made our life a misery never book these had a bathroom fitted horrible job then when it leak and destroyed my front room ceiling trust when I say don't use them .
Here to help all home owners no job too big to small here to make everybody happy to suit the pocket over 15 years experience
Even though unable to hire as a neighbour is now doing the job Paul was prompt to contact me
Welcome to Rothwell Contracts & Rothwell Kitchens Ltd Nottinghamshire based family run businesses
Whoops, sorry, about the last comment about rcl builders, that comment was to another builder.
Hallmark Kitchen and Bathrooms use NICEIC approved electricians Part P &17 Edition Qualified and use gas safe heating engineers. We do the work from start to finish or part fit inclusive of tiling, plastering, carpentry and rubbish disposal. OAP discounts
A good solid floor fitted to our conservatory with extra damp proofing added to solve a previous issue. Would definitely use again.
We are a family run business with over 10years experience in the trade, specialising in fencing-roofing and landscaping. Covering Kent Essex and London. All aspects of work undertaken no job is to big or to small. all work is guaranteed fully insured
Really great team. Joe and Tom quickly identified what several previous "roofers" had failed to spot. They also fixed issues created by the previous "roofers". Very pleased. Finally found someone who knows what they are doing does what the promise and can be trusted.
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