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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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We are a small, family run company based in the Midlands with more than 25 years experience in concrete reinforced structures and groundworks. We specialise in raft slab foundations; reinforced bases for summerhouses, sheds and garages; concrete retaining walls; footing foundations and all associated groundworks. We pride ourselves in delivering high quality workmanship at a fair price. "We form a firm foundation for you to create your vision"
Craig was brilliant from start to finish. He offered his honest professional opinion on all aspects of the job and carried it out in good time. Very friendly team.
Here at acorn we offer services from garden maintainance , hedge cutting , tree surgery (rope climb) to a garden tidy and power washing for drives , patio and roofs . Chimney pointing to stop them dreaded leaks , chimney cowls (Gas or Smoke) , roof repairs , GRP roofing systems , facia boards and soffit . Stone slate turned & chipped . Fencing and flagging,patio services . Wood work , tiling .. GRP flat roof systems , stone roof 's repairs & turning . Cellar conversions . QUALIFIED PLUMBER (SON)
Family run business. Have been a bricklayer for 30 years and now my son has followed in my foot steps. I have always been proud of my work especially conservation. I have recently joined rated people because I have had enough of the site work and feel its time to slow down and offer my experience to private work. I have done private work in the past and always ensured works were completed on time,at a reasonable rate and took pride in my work. I am a registered company and can be found on company house. I can supply my registration number for any checks.
Polite, friendly and efficient from the start. It was just a small job to be done but the job was very well done and no rubbish to clear afterwards. We have no hesitation in recommending GR Jones Brickwork Ltd.
JA brickwork & building maintenance have over 50 years experience between us ,we specialise in all aspects of buildingwork,from small jobs to big jobs currently building a new big extension on a new school,landscaping, fencing,conservatorys, rubbish removal ,insurance work restore-refurb,we take great pride in all ower work and make sure we offer the best possible services to ower customers.
Brilliant service from first text through to completion, great job done ????
Exstentoin rendering plastering home improvement repointing Stonemasonry
Malcom, Alan, Darren and the team have been fantastic. So pleased with the work they have done, It exceeds our expectation. They arrived when they said and have been a pleasure to work with. Would recommend these guys to anyone!
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.
Luke is very professional in all stages of the work he carried out. His quote for removing old decking and replacing it with a paved patio was very detailed and reasonable. He kept me informed at every stage of the work. When he finished laying down the patio he left the area clean and tidy. I can honestly say that I am really impressed with the finished job and have no hesitation in recommending Luke of Sol.Co to anyone wanting similar work doing.
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25 combined years of experience within the construction industry. We provide a clean, neat and reliable service. We strive to do our best for each and every one of our clients no matter how big or small the job may be. We take on all aspects of masonry work. Garden walls, extentions, chimney stack removals, patios, repointing, traditional brickwork, lime mortar putty… you name it we do it!
Fantastic work. Andy is very professional and knowledgeable. Prompt, friendly and very competitive prices. We are building a 2 storey side extension and Andy is doing all the building works. We have a very difficult set of footings which involves a line of trees close by. Foundations passed by Building Control with flying colours. Very satisfied and Andy will be quoting for other work I have planned and I am sure we will be working together for sometime now. Would recommend him to anyone.
Experienced builder based in Tooting. Expert in structural work, layout changes, concrete foundations, steel structures, and main carpentry to bring your project to life. Dedicated to delivering solid, reliable craftsmanship on every job.
Professional job at a fair price
With over 25 years of experience, and with Danny Walker at the helm and Alex Grouse of W2.0 Developments Ltd has become a trusted name in construction and development in The Home Counties. As a reputable principal contractor, we specialise in delivering high-quality construction services to both residential and commercial clients. Our commitment to excellence and client satisfaction sets us apart as one of the top construction companies in The Home Counties. Founded on the principles of quality, reliability, and innovation, W2.0 Developments Ltd has grown from a small local contractor into a leading force in the construction industry across The Home Counties. Our journey has been driven by our dedication to delivering exceptional results, building lasting relationships with our clients, and continually raising the standards of construction.
Dan is a force of nature, as anyone who’s met him will agree. He and his team were always dedicated, hard-working and good natured. I would recommend Dan and his team to anyone, especially for a big renovation project like this, which involves working with other parties, such as structural engineers, kitchen designers and installers, as he works with them and takes away most of the pain. The quality of the work is excellent and he always came back to complete the snag list (even 3x for our thresholds).
It is my pleasure to introduce Smart Drainz - A complete service for all commercial and domestic drainage and sewage requirements. We specialise in drain surveillance, home buyer’s surveys, high pressure jet clearance, drain repair, drain relining rehabilitation and removal, pitch fibre specialists, new drain installations, pump station installation and repair, treatment plant servicing and installations, drainage fields and soak-aways, underpinning. Damp and rodent control, water mains and directional drilling. All aspects of groundwork’s. All remedial works undertaken will hold a full 10 year guarantee so you can rest assured that the problem has been dealt with in a professional manor. Any engineers working for Smart Drainz has to have a minimum requirement of 10 years in the industry. We also offer free quotations and advice. These vital services are required across many industries, and our team has experience working in a diverse range of organisations including breweries, schools, care homes and hospitals. All our pricing is based on fixed rates and our remedial projects are on fixed quotes, so you as a customer know exactly where you stand and therefore no hidden surprises at the point of invoice. Smart Drainz vans come prepared with the high tech equipment needed to complete any unforeseen repairs or tasks. Clearly the industry we are in can be very distressing for our customers, but Smart Drainz staff are friendly and knowledgeable and will help to make your experience with us as pleasant as possible. Thanks for taking the time to read about us.
A good thourgh job well done
My name is Ioan I’m in the construction industry science 2013 Iwas working for one company until last two years when I decided to stated my own business.
Ended up delaying the project by a year but he just completed it last week. Was really happy with the result.
Over 8 years experience in property maintenance. Contact me for all your property needs!
Did a excellent job more than happy with service
M & C Landscapings and Home Improvements is a business by a professional. with years of experience. Always looking for new designs and products for your garden and home needs. Whether you need garden maintenance, a new designed garden 100% satisfaction.
Work was done to perfection I am so happy with the decking polite and efficient service I would highly recommend
www.davincidesign.info Small reliable, trustworthy, friendly and professional family run business, specialises in all aspects of groundwork’s and garden designs
At sb roofing and building we offer a friendly reliable service to work on anything from ur roof to extension loft conversions property renovation plastering to painting we are a well established company with many years experience in the building game all work is guaranteed and finished to a high standard ?
The quote was provided quickly and the work carried out on the arranged day. After giving time for the floor to harden I found it was very uneven and sloped in two directions. I have had to correct it by applying a floor screed. Also some rubbish was left in the rear access passage behind the houses. It was agreed that it would pick it up but it wasn’t so I had to remove it so it didn’t obstruct the alley way for my neighbours.
Hi I'm a time served bricklayer, with 40 years experience, I have been self employed for the last 38 years and have never really been out of work but moved to Norfolk from Essex a couple of years ago and I am now looking for local work. I've done most things over the years extensions, house building, walls, landscaping, patios, driveways etc, I have also been lucky enough to build my own house, I'm currently working with my son Terry which works well. Thank you for your time and I look forward to working in the local area. Dave
Extremely happy with the work done. Great communication. Managed to get the work sorted for us really quickly.
i have been a self employed builder since 1997 i have one employed labourer but i am able to get all trades as i do extentions, my main work is roofing but am also a good general builder, i am based in stockport but have worked all around greater manchester
LITA CONTRACTORS LTD We are a family owned construction company with over 10 years of successful commercial and residential building projects. Based in London, we help clients with all kinds of construction needs, with existing plans or brand-new designs and solutions. Some of our services include: - Ground work - Drainage - Basements - First Fix & Second Fix - Kitchen & Bathroom Fit Out - RC Frame & Steel Frame We are specialised in delivering reliable and best quality services that will last a generation.
I needed my shed reducing in size urgently. Haki came in half an hour and gave a very reasonable quote. He and his brother worked tirelessly over 2 days to do the job. It looks great and they tidied up after themselves too.
We are a company with over 15 years experience across UK and Europe.
Good arrived on time worker worked hard
Hello everyone! •Our company has over 3 years of experience and we can provide high level services such as: •Maintaining green spaces and flower beds Paving and patios, brick and block work, artificial grass, fancying, decking and pergolas, new lawn. We gonna take the great attention to make the customer happy.
I’m giving 5 stars to Benjamin and his boys, who came on agreed day and time, done driveway dig up, sub base, waste clearance and vac plate compresion as I wanted. Even rain didn’t stopped them!
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