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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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NICEIC approved and fully insured electrical contractors covering all of London. Welcome to the world of Bennet Baldwin Ltd. We are the premium choice in emergency electrical work, offering our expertise and service to keep your home and business safe. Our team of professional and reliable contractors are available 24/7 to attend to all kinds of emergency electrical repairs and issues. Whether it’s fixing a faulty circuit or replacing your old fuse board, you can count on us to deliver the highest quality work at competitive prices. With the best materials, a comprehensive guarantee and full customer satisfaction, you can rest assured that you will get the perfect solution for your electrical needs. We understand that emergencies can occur anytime and we take pride in offering a fast and efficient response to ensure your safety and comfort. Our experienced electricians know exactly what needs to be done and are always prepared for any challenge. With the latest technology and top of the line safety equipment, no job is too big or small for us. At Bennet Baldwin Ltd, we strive to provide excellent customer service and value for money. With a free quote and free consultation service, you can be sure that you will get the best solution for your electrical requirements. Make the right choice with Bennet Baldwin Ltd . Put your mind at ease and get in touch with us today!

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Reviewed by Shilpa on 22/4/2024

Quotes shared timely, good communication and excellent work done in under a week. Will certainly use their services again if needed. Recommended.

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.

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Reviewed by Alex on 29/8/2024

Great job, professional to deal with and left job very clean. Would highly recommend.

We pride ourselves on the quality of our work. Tailored to help you in the construction of projects whatever the size and build value.

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Reviewed by Malcolm on 20/10/2023

Excellent work at the right price. Helpful and timely. Restored my confidence in builders.

We are a family run company, we have a reputation for excellence and attention to detail, not only in the quality of work we do, but also in the high standard of customer service we provide. You only have to read our ratings on rated people to know that we are competitively priced. But we don't cut any corners - quality and value are what we offer. We liaise with you every step of the way, are knowledgeable and willing to give advice, before, during and after your work. You will always find us willing to help and answer any questions you have.

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Reviewed by Raymond on 25/9/2024

Very busy at present due to recent storms, but came out next day to clear our bolcked gutterings. First class service as always

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Reviewed by Denise on 31/10/2023

We were delighted with the work carried out. They came when they said they would. They were polite and very hard working. They did an excellent job. We will be using them again.

i have over 20yrs experience in the building trade .have nvq level 2 brickwork qualification also work with various types of building companies to gain more knowledge in the industry ..i am firm believer in letting my work speak for itself.

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Reviewed by Jade on 21/12/2024

I needed the pointing removed and new pointing added to a very old internal brick wall in my flat. The team arrived early, and were extremely professional. Not only did they do a fantastic job but they also brought with them a really nice atmosphere/good energy which was lovely to see. Highly recommended.

we are a family business with over 25 years in the building industry. With lots of different skills and qualifications. from a NVQ in electrical design and installations, able skills construction trained in bricklaying, paving and five different ways of pointing and plastering, level 3 CCTV & solar pv design & installation. But most importantly We think is years of experience in a wide range of skills. We do complete extensions and conversions, orangeries & conservatories. Covering the midlands & Greater London. I’ve uploaded a few of my qualifications in my gallery along with images of some of my work. We specialise in conservatory’s & orangeries. We also do conservatory warm roof conversions & firestone rubber cover flat roofs & we can install new sky pods/roof lanters/flat glass roof lights allowing natural light in & Porch’s. With our qualifications we can do it all without the hassle of finding different tradesmen. Thanks for taking the time to read trades and what we offer. we offer free initial first visits with impartial advice and quotations. Direct line insurance Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you would like to know more. Kind regards John

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Reviewed by Barbara on 15/11/2024

They responded quickly. Did the job so far, so good. Time will tell if the patchwork of rendering stays in place and does the job. I have given them 5 stars on the chance that it does. I have only just had it done. Very friendly family. So far I would recommend and would not hesitate to have them back to do further work if needed.

Hi, I'm Ashley and i do my best to build a good profile with top ratings,I hope to deliver a good service to each customer and always make sure the customer is happy with my work.Check my ratings and reviews out to give you some info about me

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Reviewed by Dennis on 8/6/2024

We were contacted quickly by the roofer and he came very quickly to have a look at the job that needed doing. That afternoon we received the quote and he send someone over to do the job two days later. It was done properly that day, with photos to show how nicely it was done! We are very pleased, with everything; the speed of the investigation, the speed of the pricing, the speed of the job, and the way the job was done! Terrific.

Henderson & Kent Builders Ltd provide an excellent service for all aspects of building works covering Hull and surrounding areas, weather your looking for full new builds, extensions or renovation works were more than happy to provide a no obligation quote.

ADI CARE&CONSTRUCT LTD is one company with more than 20 years of experience in construction. we have skills like partitioning, extension, plastering, painting, laminate, tiling, paving , and gardening. We are working fast, clean, and open to offer good service and prices. My Company is looking for extending in Doncaster area and not only. We need all trust and support, and we offer the same. Thanks .

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Reviewed by Phil on 18/9/2023

Good quality work. Got the job done quickly. Would recommend!

Before anything else, preparation is the key to success!!! All jobs require the highest level of effort and attention to detail, my belief is every customer deserves the service I would expect for myself. I can offer professional advice and assistance to the keen DIY’er or self builder. Alternatively, I can take on and complete your home improvement projects. No job too big or small. Exterior jobs include but not limited to: •Painting •Patios & Decking •Driveways •Fencing •Drainage •Sheds and bases •Raised planters •Landscaping •Garden clearance •Demolition work •All small jobs including garden furniture assembly Interior jobs include but not limited to: •Painting and decorating •carpentry work •Light fittings and socket replacement •Flooring, skirting boards, door hanging & architraves •Blinds and curtain poles •Shelving and wall mounted TV’s •Bespoke built in wardrobes & media walls •Wooden furniture Repairs •Furniture and flat pack assembly I have the experience and knowledge to deliver most home projects. All jobs considered

We offer a quality driven, reliable team of people to undertake most exterior maintenance and installations in both the domestic & commercial sector. Our field of work includes but not limited to Domestic & Security Fencing, Stone/Concrete Paving, Brickwork, RePointing, Groundworks, Decking, Driveway Renewals/Cleaning/Sealing, Turf Installation/Removal, Aggregate Installation/Removal, Tree Felling/Stump Grinding, Demolitions & Waste Removals Extensive experience, planning and communication are our strong points and we always look to do our very best in talking the customer through the work and provide advice where needed. We can supply a complete package of sourcing, designing and installing all work needed. We will where possible always try to be cost effective and if we can help in making you a saving then we will. We always leave a job tidy and a customer happy.

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Reviewed by Lee on 2/7/2018

Daniel was on time, stuck to the budget and completed the work to an extremely high standard. I wouldn’t hesitate to employ him for any future landscaping work.

At Greensure Property Care, we are dedicated to providing top-notch property maintenance and improvement services tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients. As a new company, we bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the industry, ensuring that every property we manage is maintained to the highest standards.

Welcome to Alfreds Garden & Landscaping. We are a family run business have been established since 2005. We do a wide range of gardening services including patios, fencing, tufting-trees and hedges and we use local products. We also use quality materials and we aim to please at a high standard. I would like to thank you for looking at my profile and feel be obliged to give me a call. Thank you.... ALFREDS GARDEN SERVICES.......

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Reviewed by Caroline on 22/10/2024

Here at Nexus Interiors, we have over 10 years experience in all building aspects. We provide services such as bespoke carpentry, Tiling, Plumbing, Decking and minor electrical work! We aim to provide a high quality service to ensure your vision comes to fruition.

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Reviewed by sabina on 12/11/2024

Arrived on time, left the area clean. Explained everything didn’t go over the agreed price very polite and helpful.

Taurus Home and Garden was launched in 2021 with the aim of providing our clients with an honest and reliable service, specialising in what we love most: landscaping and damp-proofing. Taurus is a Sussex based company where a clear vision for each project is shared among us, the contractors, andhomeowners. As well as landscaping and damp-proofing, we also undertake renovation projects on request – you only have to ask! Our goal is to become the go-to company for landscaping and damp-proofing work, and to share our vision of creating, improving, and protecting every space we have the opportunity to work upon. We aim to restore trust in contractors by delivering clear, well-planned, and expertly executed projects to our clients, providing full transparency throughout. We understand the anxieties many people experience when entrusting their home visions to others. Our transparent process, from planning to completion, is designed to help our clients rebuild that trust.

Small family run building company with over 40 years experience over 2 generations as a premium general building company. All types of building work carried out to the highest standard. A one stop shop for all your building needs right from the design and planning stage to completion. Joinery, roofing specialising in flat roofs Building and Plastering A wealth of experience in remodelling and renovations, extensions and sunrooms. Landscaping and paving. All areas covered. Fully insured, trained and certified tradesmen

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Reviewed by Laura on 16/12/2024

Paul did a number of jobs for us, namely a roof repair. He was efficient, calling out promptly, and took the time to explain some of the issues we were having with the property.He completed all jobs to a high standard and at reasonable price. Would highly recommend!

I have been providing High Quality Painting, Decorating and Plastering services for over 25 years (new to Rated People). I take pride in my work and enjoy having a good reputation for providing an exceptional service. For best results I use top quality equipment in preparation and for a quality finish I use premium paints. No job is too big or small and the finish is hard-wearing and guaranteed for 3 years. Remember; get the best from the best!

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Reviewed by Stephen on 17/11/2024

Excellent plastering and painting work transformed our rooms upstairs. Parviz is meticulous and determined to get the best results. He takes good care to protect your home and limits disruption as far as possible. Highly recommended.

We have been working at this trade for over 15 years. My company and works people hold a number of different NVQ qualifications such as electrical, engineering, railway engineer, civil engineering. We take customer service very seriously and we ensure to reply as soon as possible when someone contacts us. We also ensure we give a fair deal for a great service in return.

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Reviewed by Carole on 24/2/2024

Mr Mema is a very pleasant, patient and polite worker who worked through bad weather and did a beautiful job building my garden pathway and walls which is admired by my neighbours. I will certainly use him again.

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