Find foundation, underpinning and piling 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
Foundations, underpinning and piling are complex, technical services that require the know-how of specialist groundworkers and engineers. More than any other part of your home, it pays to invest in solid foundations, so find a professional you can trust today.
Browse Underpinning / Piling / Foundations specialists
Take a look at our Underpinning / Piling / Foundations specialists profiles, read reviews and request quotes directly.
Underpinning, piling and foundation construction – Rated People
When it comes to foundations and underpinning, the name tells you everything you need to know about their importance to your home. This specialist groundwork quite literally provides the base your home is built on. And that’s why it’s absolutely vital the professionals you use are experienced experts who know what they’re doing.
The complexity of foundations (and underpinning or piling, if required) depends on the structure you’re building, and the state of the ground your home or plot sits on. Basic foundations involve filling trenches (dug precisely according to plans) with a layer of solid concrete and then building blockwork up to ground level. Alternatively, an entire trench can be filled with concrete to just below ground level before adding damp proof coursing.
Piling is becoming an increasing popular alternative to standard footings or foundations. It involves driving piles into the ground, which are made from steel, concrete or even wood. A ground beam then sits atop the foundation, which your structure can be built on.
Underpinning is required when existing foundations have become defective, and to counter issues like subsidence. The appropriate method will be recommended by an experienced groundwork specialist and potentially a structural engineer too. The standard approach to underpinning involves excavating specific sections below the footing and reinforcing them with concrete. Piling techniques provide an alternative to traditional underpinning and can be used in situations where there’s restricted access. Not only is piling faster than standard underpinning, but it has a higher load capability and less disruption. Those benefits come at a cost though, and you’ll find piling is significantly pricier than standard concrete underpinning.
Cost of foundations, underpinning and piling
It pays to invest in foundations, but quite how much you’ll need to invest depends on the type of foundations you require. Basic foundation laying involves the following steps (excluding site clearance and the setting out of footings):
- Excavation: £7-£10 per sqm
- Laying foundations (concrete and blockwork): £40-£60 per sqm
Piling costs are typically significantly higher than standard foundations – anywhere from 2-3 times more expensive than the concrete and blockwork method.
Similarly, underpinning costs vary according to the issue that needs to be resolved, and the method selected. For mass concrete underpinning you can expect to pay between £1,000-£2,000 per linear metre.
How to build a foundation
Basic foundations follow a fairly simple process. After you’ve consulted a structural engineer and have all the necessary plans approved, the first step is to dig out trenches. Your groundwork professional may recommend a ground survey before any digging begins. This process involves creating trial holes to ensure the foundation method you plan to use is appropriate. With (or without) that survey complete, footings can then be dug to the agreed level.
The next phase involves laying concrete into the base of the trench to at least 250mm in depth. Blockwork is then built up to floor level. This method is called a strip foundation. Alternatively, a technique known as “trenchfill” involves (unsurprisingly) filling the trench with concrete to just below ground level. Both methods are completed with the application of a damp-proof course onto which the ground floor can be installed.
How does piling work
There are three main piling techniques: screw piling, pile and beam, and piled raft.
Screw piling is the simplest piling technique to execute. A small crew of ground-workers can install screw piles and brackets by hand or with the assistance of a small excavator. This method is well-suited to walls and larger structures, when used with supporting brackets. Screw piling offers a number of benefits, including ease of installation, lower costs and reduced environmental impact.
The pile and beam method involves installing mini-piles either side of a wall. Brickwork can then be removed below the affected wall, and a reinforced concrete needle beam inserted to connect the piles. The pile and beam technique is well-suited to homes on smaller plots, or with restricted access. It’s also faster and less messy than traditional mass concrete underpinning and is capable of bearing high loads.
Finally, there’s the piled raft approach. Piled raft foundations are required when an entire building needs to be underpinned, when foundations can’t be accessed or where soil conditions aren’t suitable for any other method. Piles are placed into the ground and needle beams are installed to help bear the load. A ring beam links the needles together and the structure is then filled with concrete.
When does a house need underpinning?
Cracked walls, ceilings or flooring are the tell-tale signs that you may need to have all or part of your home underpinned. Diagonal cracks, or those that reach a quarter of an inch or larger, are classic symptoms of faulty foundations, or problematic ground conditions. More severe warning signs are walls beginning to buckle. Underpinning, either using the mass concrete method or any of the piling techniques outlined above, can help to remedy these problems.
While underpinning is usually associated with foundation problems, it can also be required if you’re planning to add another floor to a building, or if it needs to stand up to increased load-bearing requirements.
The qualifications your foundation, piling or underpinning professional needs
Foundations and piling or underpinning will almost always require the expertise of a structural engineer. They will be able to advise on load bearing considerations, as well as the most appropriate technique to use (taking ground and soil conditions into account). Choose an experienced professional who holds chartered status from the Institution of Structural Engineers.
The groundworkers carrying out your excavation work should also be experienced, though they won’t need formal accreditation. A diploma, City and Guilds qualification or evidence of completing an apprenticeship is always helpful, but ultimately you should look for a proven track record of delivering groundwork services to a high standard and complete customer satisfaction.
Planning permission for foundation, piling or underpinning work
How and where you lay foundations will be determined by the planning permission you’ve been granted. This will be decided by your local planning authority, and unless an unforeseen issue crops up you’ll need to stick closely to what you’ve been given permission for.
When it comes to underpinning, you won’t require planning permission to remedy a fault with your foundations. The only exception here is a listed building, which may have certain limitations.
Insurance for foundation, piling or underpinning work
It’s crucial that your professional holds public liability insurance, to cover your property against damage. Such is the importance of this work, most structural engineers will also hold professional indemnity insurance, protecting them in case anything goes wrong with the services they’ve provided.
Questions you should ask your foundation, piling or underpinning professional
- For standard foundations, which method would they use (and why)?
- Will they be using a strip or trenchfill foundation?
- For underpinning, which technique would they advise on (and why)?
- For piling, what is the most cost-effective option available?
- Can they provide a warranty (or do they have professional indemnity insurance) to cover their work?
Welcome to AM Maintenance, We specialise in all aspects of building and maintenance works. Ranging from a leak in the roof or a new bathroom. we have an extensive range of services at competitive prices whilst delivering quality.
Dan & team did a fantastic job throughout and we are so pleased with the end result. They've transformed our home. Would highly recommend to anyone looking for a builder they can trust. Thanks again!
'%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}
DT Contractors is a growing business, established over 10 years ago and now run by two brothers. Various skills between both of us and our team. Can complete all sorts of jobs to the highest standard and great quality. No job is too small or too big for us! Just contact us, talk to us and we are sure we can find a way to sort whatever is required. ‘Impossible things - we are sorting staring away! Miracle - give us couple of days!’
Came and looked at job quoted then didn't answer 3 emails
HEX360 was founded in 2015 by Craig Lewis with the solid foundation that a degree in construction management provides. Before launching HEX360, Craig’s former life saw him working at Princess Yachts, where he founded his skills and acquired his particular attention to detail – but if you’ve reached this page, you probably aren’t interested in hearing Craig’s life story… you’re really interested in finding out what makes HEX360 different to all the other construction companies out there. So read on and discover our difference. Working with most construction companies can feel a bit like finding your way in the dark – you just don’t know where to go to get the information you need. The stereotypical construction company that makes matters so confusing and complicated that everything they say goes over your head is, unfortunately, not just a myth. They’re out there, and they’re confusing clients as we speak. So, it’s no wonder that so many people put off their project or come to a grinding halt partway through – after all, it can all feel just too overwhelming. Luckily, HEX360 is here to change your perceptions and prove that not all construction companies are the same. We’re dedicated to working with you, not for you, and that means taking a collaborative approach right from the get-go. With our 8-step process, we’ll clearly outline every stage of your project so you won’t feel overwhelmed, and thanks to our use of in-house project management software, you’ll have complete transparency for every aspect of your project. We are committed to flexibility, accessibility, and approachability so your project can run smoothly, whether you’re updating your kitchen, renovating or extending your entire home or developing a large commercial property. You’re more than a number on a spreadsheet to us, and we never bite off more than we can chew. Our attention and efforts are solely dedicated towards you and your project during your time with us. Unlike with some construction companies, once we begin work on your project we don’t simply move on to our next. We provide industry leading account management during the full life cycle of the project, meaning you aren’t forgotten about once you sign on the dotted line.
i would like to add this group of workmen are the best i have seen for a long time.they are prepared to go above and beyond to ensure a professional and efficient project is completed. Above all they are honest ,trustworthy and obliging in every way. Highly recommended.
22 YEARS EXPERIENCE ON Builder Contractor With my team we did from Garden Landscape all the way to new build yet making sure Clinet saves and reaches his goal on they projects. We are qualified Gas safety Electrical Plumbing Solar Heat pumps We specialaise on: Loft conversion Bathroom Kitchen Extensions Paiting and Decorating Plumbing Roofing Garden Landscaping Insured and insurance backed guaranteed services
Great work. Knows the bathroom issue reasonable charge Would recommend to others
Free quotes. Free Advice. Public Liability Insurance. Clean & Tidy Worker. Over 25yrs Experience in the building trade. We are a friendly family run business. We cover All roofing work undertaken, repairs to complete Re-Roof. Flat Roof. Chimney repairs. Fascia. Soffits. Guttering. Pointing. Also Landscaping. Patios. Blockpaving. Driveways. Fencing. External & Internal Painting. Brickwork. Extensions. Small jobs are welcome.
A really good job. Very happy with the finished product. Waiting on a quote for something else now.
We are at your disposal to help you with Leo pop construction property maintenance Ltd We arrange tiling works, gardens, paving and other interior paint?ing and exterior jobs .
We are a small development company moving into property maintenance to keep our trusted tradesman busy. We can provide trusted, qualified and experienced tradesman to carry out the work required and are contactable 24 hours a day.
We chose Buildway to do this important work at our house replacing a 42 year old timber balcony. Bill came over and gave us a very thorough assessment of the options and then produced a fair quote for the work. The dates were agreed and stuck to. The job threw up some complications that couldn’t have been foreseen and they were handled professionally by the team. We are very happy with the whole experience and wouldn’t hesitate to use them in the future
Whether you're in need of a renovation, facing an emergency leak, requiring asbestos removal, or seeking efficient waste management services, we've got all your needs covered. Look no further for comprehensive property solutions at competitive rates. As proud members of the Federation of Master Builders, our skilled and experienced team possesses the necessary expertise to tackle any project. With a robust track record of successfully completing a variety of jobs in both commercial and residential settings, our team is fully equipped to handle projects of any size and complexity. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we are committed to delivering optimal results for you. Choose Nu Space for a seamless, reliable, and expert approach to meet your requirements.
A time and date was agreed with this company to attend our home and then provide us with a quote. However on the due date, the Representative of the company did not arrive. When we tried to call the company to find out why, we continually received an out of office message even tho this was only late afternoon . Very poor , we will not use this company again
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.
Fabricating,Welding,Install:Security Grill Gates,Railing,Automatic gate,Staircase's,Collapsible,Window,Balustrade,Structural STEEL,Beems,Alloy Wheels,Exhaustes,lowering,welding:ARC,MIG,TIG,GAS,STAIN LEES STEEL,LED:Basic Plumbing+Painting+Powder Coting,Galvanise+...
Hired Amir to retrofit a Locinox soft closer on my gate, which turned out really well. The job was complicated but Amir took his time to understand what I wanted and finished the job to my satisfaction, thank you.
I am a general builder that has many skills, I have built extentions, fitted kitchens and bathrooms, removed and rebuilt interior walls, fitted windows and doors. I also have done all specialist types of external rendering, I also tile walls and floors not only with your everyday tiles but I also do natural products such as stone. I laid patios, turf and general gardening,
Chris did a great job of tiling and I wouldn’t hesitate to ask him to do another job for us.
We are specialised in Kitchen, bathrooms and all type of furniture instalation. We are team of handyman, plumer, electrician and carpenter.
He replaced the plastic roofs in the garden and changed the toilet efficiently. The work was done to a good standard and he was reliable and polite. Overall I’m happy with the results.
SRG Renovations Ltd have built a reputation to be proud of, with our team of highly qualified tradesmen we can carry out any project you may have in mind weather it be a small job or a major renovation project all at a very competitive price.
Clean, high quality plasterers. positive attitude. Highly recommended.
We are small team of professionals in the construction private sector for more than 15 years. Based on our skills we aim to provide top quality various construction works
JND fitters quote for floor laminates was competitively priced and real value for money. They arrived early and finished the work before the deadline. Excellent quality of work, attention to detail and finishing touches. Highly recommended, definitely would hire them again
Ruhulla Test
Smart Choice Roof
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
SMART CHOICE ROOFING SERVICES Established over 3 years ago, we provide expert roofing services to commercial and domestic clients across Surrey, Hampshire and West Sussex. A wide variety of services can be carried out to fulfil all your roofing requirements, from new builds to re-roofs, roof repairs and more! Why hire us? 1. All our work meets strict quality and safety standards. 2. Our workforce is subject to continuous training and the company health and safety policy is regularly monitored and updated. 3. We offer emergency call out. 4. We undertake insurance work.
Hi everyone , thanks checking my profile I’m Vas , have more than 10 years experience in construction I got level 3 diploma in carpentry, my main job is carpentry, but being in the industry so long I also can do handyman, fencing, ground work and foundation, decking, etc j
Brilliant workmanship , did exactly how we needed the shelves to be made. Highly recommended
We are your trusted experts in comprehensive building & maintenance services, offering a wide range of solutions to meet all your needs. From minor repairs to large-scale projects, we’ve got you covered. Our skilled team specialise in all aspects of construction, including plumbing, boiler breakdowns, emergency call-outs, and gas safety/boiler services. We also excel in joinery work, handling both minor repairs and major construction projects, from kitchens to full house renovations, extensions property refurbs. In addition, we provide all aspects of plastering services, encompassing repairs, full-house projects, damp course works, external rendering, and k-render applications. Roofing is another of our specialties, with services ranging from repairs to complete house renovations. When it comes to electrical work, we take care of it all, from repairs and installations to full re-wires, EICR certificates, and remedial works. Our skilled painters and decorators, who are part of our dedicated team, ensure your space looks its best. We also offer EPC certificates and guarantee that all our work meets the necessary standards. For those looking to transform their homes completely, we offer full house renovations from start to finish. Landlords benefit from our fast turnaround times, ensuring their properties are ready for sale or back on the market promptly. All major works and extensions come with our comprehensive guarantee. Choose us for your maintenance needs, and experience quality service from start to finish. List of services Joinery Plumbing Expert painting and decorating Plastering all aspects Roofing works Electrical works Property maintenance Bathroom refurbishment Kitchen refurbishment Full property refurbishment Extensions and conversions Fire door checks sign off Minor or major repairs Planning and a full schedule of works with all quotes.
Hi, I’m Luke, the founding member of Sol.Co- Structural outdoor landscaping company. I have been a self employed builder and fully qualifed bricklayer for the last 15 years. Although bricklaying, stonework and paving are my speciality, I do have a really wide skill set. Please see my gallery for examples. I have been fortunate enough to gain building experience all over the world in Australia, Portugal, parts of Asia and the UK. I enjoy working closely with customers and offer a bespoke service for all building needs. Over the last few years I have begun focusing my work towards garden building design. I enjoy working on outdoor spaces as they offer opportunities for creativity without the limitations of planning restrictions. It is also high impact work. A garden can be changed a lot in just the space of a week or two. I appreciate the importance of listening to customers carefully, adding suggestions from previous designs and my own experience as needed. I am happy to put references forward if required. Thanks for taking the time to view my profile.
Absolute Legend... Priced reasonably, came out early and repaired my brick wall to perfection. I would not hesitate to use him again and would recommend him to others.
Local reliable and professional refurbishments from leaking taps to full remodelling and project management
Excellent work from Paul. He arrived on time and completed the work and left the area neat and tidy. Will definitely use Paul for future jobs.
'%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