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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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***All roofing work undertaken, no job too big or small*** All London and surrounding areas. All roofing work, leadwork, fascias, guttering, repairs and velux windows. Flat roofs and new roofs. Contact me for a quotation.
With expertise in all aspects of joinery, from roofing to foundations, we handle every detail of your project. Our building services cover a wide range of needs. I've been dedicated to this trade since 1989, ensuring quality and reliability in every job.
Electrician at Self employed electrical engineer
Came out short notice. Managed to squeeze me in. Due to short notice of getting room plastered 3 days later. Had 4 double plugs put in. In chrome like I wanted. They were professional and cleaned up after themselves. Will definitely use again
Welcome to Certified Group Limited, We are a sister company to Certified Gas Heating Ltd. Started of as a dedicated and driven apprentice who started working within the plumbing trade from the age of 15. Established in 2012, We are a fast growing company accommodating your plumbing, heating and gas utilities effectively. Over the years we have started to offer other services which include: Electrical, renewables, drainage, carpentry, roofing, property renovations and kitchen extensions hence the reason for the name change as it fits our image at present. We at Certfied group are known for being professional, organised and enthusiastic at all times. We are approved contractors rated a “5 Star company for quality services” on Which Trusted Trader, Trust Pilot and other platforms. We at Certified group have a fantastic reputation for our hard work, performance, quality and efficiency. We are based in Greenwich SE10 London and cover whole of the capital and surrounding areas. We offer a 24/7 emergency services, Landlord safety certificates, Central heating and boiler installations, Breakdowns, Repairs, Power flush and more.
Great experience with Aziz and team. They provide lots of advice and a detailed quote before starting any works. The work was quick and efficient and they were super tidy throughout the whole process. All works were completed to a high standard and we are so happy with our newly installed radiators. Thanks again for the amazing effort
Solutions for carpentry, design and build. Corrective and repair work. Assessment free of charge. Experienced and knowledgeable. Professionally managed. Insured. Reasonably priced. Also specialise in all door supply and fitting. I look forward to talking about your requirements.
Brilliant work! We were so pleased with Jon's workmanship and professionalism from start to finish! We are looking forward to working with him again and would not hesitate to recommend to others!
MR roofing and building. Over 20 years roofing and building experience we pride ourselves on quality work at a high standard. We specialise in all aspects of roofing and building maintenance/repair. We are a honest and reliable company and take great pride in every job we do. The type of work we normally do is tile and slate roof repairs, flat roof repairs,chimney repairs, Lead flashings, guttering,fascia and soffits. All aspects of bricklaying, pointing, internal reconstruction, installing lintels, structural reinforcement, opening up and blocking up fireplaces,flagging, Rendering, plastering. All work done by a experienced qualified tradesmen. No job is too small. •Qualifications. Fully qualified NVQ2 bricklayer. CSCS card holder. Construction skills certification scheme. Time served roofer. City and guilds in •Engineering craft studies. • Mechanical production. • Industrial studies. • Material removal. • Joining. • Assembly and dismantling.
Hired to fix my guttering and they have done a brilliant job, they came to check and work out what the problem is and gave me a reasonable quote, they arranged a date and time to carry out the work and the leak and guttering issues are completely gone. Would highly recommend.
From the smallest repairs to the largest roofing projects Universeal Home Improvements can help We are a family run buisness that comes with high reputation offering you quality workmanship to your home Over the years we have built up a reputation that we are very proud of and we strive to maintain. Please take a minuite of your time to view our rated people profile and see our outstanding reviews.
Excellent service from Joe and his team. I posted the job and the following day it was fixed. Would definitely recommend.
Construction and brickpaving company...we have been In business since 2005 with over 100 happy customers to date no job too small.... James eves JLE paving ????
James is a fantastic tradesman: he is highly skilled and knowledgeable. James is a great communicator and he talked me through all the options. What a hard working and friendly person. I highly recommend James
HELLO MY NAME IS STEPHEN SEYMOUR I HAVE BEEN A CARPENTER FOR THE LAST 35 YEARS AND I HAVE WORKED ON ALL DIFFERENT PROJECTS FROM FITTING THE FIRST FLOORS JOIST TO PUTTING A CUT ROOFS ON AND NOW AND AGAIN I MAKE BESPOKE BOOKCASES AND UNITS AS YOU CAN SEE
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Hi we do from one slate or tile too full re roof flat roofs garage roofs all upvc fasica boards soffit boards guttering and down pipes all tree work plus waste removals plus much more
HOME CARE ROOFING Ltd
All that I can say is that their work was adequate (just). They worked hard but they were disorganised and the quality of their work was not great. We had to lend them a ladder (which they subsequently bought), a tape measure and a saw; the usual things that a builder would have with them.
Raj was very helpful fixing my sink. He got in touch really quick after posting my ad, he came the next day to have a look and repair it. I had a small problem the next day and Raj came back to fix it straight away. Would recommend Raj
Hi at jays property maintenance we run a family run business that are specialists in flat roofing new roofs Chimley rebuilds lead work and all aspects of property maintenance.with a 5 million public liability insurance.
All roofing work undertaken to high degree of quality. With a friendly customer service. Over 20 years of experience in the trade. This includes all PVC fascia, soffits and guttering as well. Small jobs undertaken and special care for OAP's. See ratings!
Fantastic service, thank you so much, will definitely recommend! Jo
We take on most of interior house jobs.Including kitchen and bathroom fit.Plumbing,flooring,painting. Carpentry jobs.All small jobs also considered. Home maintenance and handy jobs. We do Plastering as well as exterior render and painting.
A joiner by trade but an experienced tradesperson in a number of home related areas including kitchens, bathrooms & maintenance
Fast, professional and friendly. Recommend
First Fix Joinery Solutions is based in Hamilton , South Lanarkshire. We carry out all aspects of joinery and building works from small jobs no one wants to full renovations. We cover the whole of Scotland. No job is too small or too far away.
We are a company that has many years of experience in the building business. We are passionate about our reputation and our aim is to leave every customer extremely happy with the workmanship we give them.
Lee and Rhys went above and beyond to complete my job - Media Wall. They were professional, respectful and I am extremely pleased with the end result. Media wall looks amazing and is exactly as I had asked. Great workmanship and I would highly recommend First Class Property Care
Hi welcome to Newman & sons. We're a family based company from Berkshire & also covering the south of England specialising in high quality new builds/refurbishing/emergency repairs/industrial roofs. For over 40 years. Specialist in Roof cleaning/roof repairs / new roofs. Gutters/ upvc Facias/chimneys. We also carry out industrial roofing. We're LABC REGISTERED & only use good quality materials & family tradesmen to get your work done. All quotes are free & no obligation /insurance /emergency. Please call even if it’s just advice. We’re more than happy to help.
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Hi im James I run an established Garden an Landscaping company, I have 17 years experience, I Design and Build Gardens. take a look through my photos to see what I do. I pride myself on great communication skills. Based in North London
James and his team were brilliant - punctual, neat and very nice, and they have transformed our back garden with great work and lovely ideas. I would really recommend them.
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