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.
Build once and right.me and my team offer you guaranty and security for the work that we perform.we are fully insured and this is the most important thing.we will get the dreams come true with happy end plus we can offer you guaranty for at least 2 years. please see all the pictures below
Excellent job and reasonable prices as
We are a new company but with more than 10 years experience, working in construction companies. We can do painting and decoration, tiling, wood and metal work.
I recently had the pleasure of meeting Oscar, who helped to decorate my whole flat, and I am thrilled with the exceptional job he did. Not only did he provide a fair and reasonable quote but they always went above and beyond to accommodate an urgent request. The professionalism, efficiency and timely completion of the work were truly impressive. I would highly recommend Oscars services to anyone in need of a skilled painter and decorator. It was a stress free and positive experience - very grateful!
Roman home improvements is a company who pride them selves on high quality workmanship at affordable prices. We have over 20 years experience and cover all aspects of construction. We are here to not only build for your needs but with our experience and knowledge to help design for your needs.
Prompt response and quote. Options fully explored and explained. Work starts soon.
'%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}
Very fast service. Well within my budget.
Goldsmith's building services for reliable tradesmen , professionalism and quality workmanship.
Did a great job measuring and putting up my blinds. Showed up on time, very reasonable price and a nice bloke
Unable to rate as our circumstances did not allow the job to go ahead.
We specialise in all aspects of hard landscaping such as patios, driveways, fencing, garden walls, sheds, lawns and garden clearance. We also complete aspects of general building such as extensions, porches, interior and exterior painting
David was great to deal with very capable and I’d use him again.
Oak & Son
Groundwork / Foundations
We are very keen and professional at our workmanship, we will try our hardest to work with our clients, we will always go above for our customers, we give a 5 star service, we will try and work with our customers budget, when we receive job we will try and get some one to you by the end of the day, we have a team of specialists who will and get the job done ?? Regards,ROOFING & DRIVEWAY & GARDEN RESTORERS,, Gutter replacements, unpredictable weather, is something that shouldn’t be overlooked. Replacing guttering can save you huge unwanted costs as overflowing and leaking gutters during heavy rain can cause untold amounts of damage. We suggest getting any signs of gutter damage-checked, We also specialise in wall cladding (to help waterproof your roof, this is especially important, With renovations, we can work with you to colour match your existing roof with the extension or renovation of your home. Roof Restorers can renew your roof and are experts, WE COVER ALL OF THE Northwest area, at roof restoration. No job is too big or too small . Roof Restorers work with a wide range of roof renewal options: Gutter replacement Wall cladding New Roofs Renovations Residential and Commercial See some of Roof Restorers roof replacement projects. Renewing your roof can add so much value to your home. Contact Roof Restorers today, FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTATIONS,, 24/7 CALL OUT,,, WE ALSO SPECIALISE IN LANDSCAPES AND PAVING SERVICES,, CALL N,W,S AT ROOF & DRIVEWAY & GARDEN RESTORERES @ N,W,S
Welcome to our page! Who we are: The company was founded in 2015 and since then has registered a rapid growth in its expertise, reputation and a wide acknowledgment in the community of South West part of London. This was possible to achieve with our dedicated team that has its primary motivation and a magnificent obsession to put SERVICE FIRST! Our team has experience of over 20 years of working in the field and we put passion to all details as we think that details are responsible for making the difference between good job and a great job, between average job and outstanding job! We understand that our succes is not only possible because we meet the expectations of our clients but we are committed to exceed them. Our experience tells us that you will not only remain pleased with our service but you will tell all your friends about it and that is how we expanded. It is pleasing to notice how our old clients are keeping coming back to us and referring their friends. What we do: We have a creative approach to deliver to you what you want in the best way possible. We do that by designing, remodelling, creating, building and finishing of your living or working space. We know how to turn your house into a place where you will enjoy spending time. Your house should be your favourite location, it should be a place where you could recharge, you could feel good instantly as you enter it and we know the science behind it, even down to the colours of your walls, the arrangement of your furniture and how that affects your state of being. We know how to create that environment that stimulates your well-being. Either you think to redesign your kitchen, your bathroom or any other of your living spaces, we are committed to serve you and help you to make your dreams a reality. We give colours to your dreams! Why? We believe you deserve a better experience when you are undertaking any design, building or decorating project and it shouldn't be a hassle. We believe your house can be transformed to a holiday destination! We believe service first approach is how business should be conducted. We believe there can be trust of 100% because we consider our clients our bigger family and are guided by the philosophy that what we do to another affects us ultimately. We want you to be our next happy costumer and we want to develop a long term relationship with you so that you enjoy the process of your renovations. The journey can be pleasing as well!
I cannot rate this company highly enough Reliable, hardworking and trustworthy I will definitely use them again
"From Tidy-Ups to Transformations" - Building and Landscaping that lasts the test of time **One of our teams has just completed the YOTEL Edinburgh design and build project on Queen Street which you can go to observe for yourself. To be trusted by large commercial corporations and deliver a high standard of work in a time sensitive manner, we will surely be able to deliver a project you will be satisfied with! With over 30 years of landscaping and building experience enjoyed throughout the company, you no longer have to compromise quality. Be the envy of your neighbours and call the reputable company to get it done right the first time. We offer a full design and build landscaping function as well as a subscription service on fortnightly (or monthly) garden tidy maintenance as well. Not only can we transform your space, but keep it looking new year round! With highly skilled staff and constant support a text away, we are here to make your service experience as pleasureable as your new extension, patio, driveway, or fence is going to look.
Apex is a maintenance service company, specialising in Plumbing, Heating and General Building. Our experienced team offer a host of skills, covering many different sectors to allow us to be your one-stop shop. So whether you're a domestic customer with a plumbing and heating issue, or, a domestic client requiring general property solutions, we can tailor your needs under one roof. Our team is fully insured and with over 30 years of experience, we're the go-to company for plumbing and heating, with a quick-to-action call-out priority covering Oxfordshire, Bucks and Berkshire.
Fantastic job. Clear communication and completed the work within time. Will recommend whole heartedly.
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!
Didn't clear the weeds and bramble from behind the side gate other than that they did what I ask them to do
Oaktree Home Improvements provides a complete renovation service. All aspects of your project can be completed by qualified and competent craftsmen to a very high standard. All aspects of work are undertaken however small or large.
Richard and his team did a wonderful job on our bathroom, they were very tidy, the workmanship is fantastic and nothing was to much trouble, we also added the utility room to the job and again they surpassed all of our expectations
www.cgtbuild.com We are c g t building services We are a highly skilled, family run business with over 30 years experience in the building and landscaping sector. We pride ourselves in giving 100% customer satisfaction and can guarantee competitive prices against leading organisations, and have a solid team of dedicated and experienced tradesmen, producing quality, skilled craftsmanship, and delivering projects both on time and to budget. Our combined skills mean we can offer a full range of building services from fencing and decking, to extensions and refurbs. as well as having a fully licenced fleet of waste removal vans, offering a fast, and reliable waste clearance service at very competetive prices. so whether youre looking to extend, restore, or refurb, or are in need of a new kitchen fitted, or youre looking to clear out your garage or landscape your garden. Theres only the one team you need. The C G Team
I'm incredibly impressed with Clean and Green. They communicated promptly, cleared the waste very quickly, and did a fantastic job. The team were professional and courteous. They even advised me on how to best handle some additional items. I truly appreciate their efficient and helpful service.
We are a general building and maintenance company. We cover all aspects of building from small maintenance items to full refurbishments, conversions and extensions. We have over 30 years experience and all our operatives are time served tradesmen. We pride ourselves on our quality of work and always price competitively. No job is too difficult and we specialise in structural work, composite walls, dry rot and other challenging jobs which we will execute and resolve at an extremely reasonable cost. We also attach a 'no quibble guarantee' on all our work for your peace of mind. Although we are geared mainly to commercial customers we welcome residential homeowners as well. Please feel free to email me or call me and I will be happy to discuss your requirements with you. We offer free estimates, are fully insured and can provide references if required. Andrew Truby Company Director AVT Building Solutions.
Much care was taken to replicate the original porch - an excellent job.
We want to assure you that you can simply stand by and safely watch your work being completed to the highest quality in the shortest possible time. We have ten years of experience in this line of work. Just send an email or give us a call to get your quote and ask any questions
A-S-Taylor established in 1994. specializing in drylining,plastering,demolition and alterations. we are a family run company with many years experience in all aspects of building works.profile picture and photos will be uploaded shortly.
only received one trade caller.
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 family run business with over 40years experience we offer a friendly prompt professional service to all our customers . Timber decking - fencing-gutters facias soffits - elastoglass seal master coatings for asphalt @ tarmacadam & concrete driveways. Butyl rubber coating for flat roofs . And all specialised coatings for Roos ect. Pressure washing and cleaning . One call does it all
I am a independent solo trader. Qualified NVQ level 3 in carpentry and joinery. I Have worked for all the major companies and have set up on my own. I take great pride in all my work and take it to the highest standards. No matter what job it is I have undertaken, customer satisfaction means the most to me. Its all about doing a good job ??.
'%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