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.
Our team is dedicated to delivering exceptional craftsmanship and outstanding customer service, ensuring that every project reflects our clients' vision and requirements. A family run business, (recently relocated to Cambridgeshire) with years of experience in the building industry, we understand that every project is unique. Whether you're looking to renovate your home, carry out essential maintenance, fit out a new office space, or embark on a new building project, we approach each task with meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to quality. We pride ourselves on our collaborative approach, working closely with clients to ensure their ideas and needs are at the forefront of every decision. Our skilled team bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table, ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. We take pleasure in providing a wide range of trades to meet all of your building-related needs. We specialise in the following on Rated People, though provide a comprehensive range of services for all your building and property maintenance requirements: Plumbing & Heating Tiling & Bathroom Fitting Painting & Decorating
Extremely pleased with the work carried out by Harry. A very pleasant, skilled workman who made a fantastic job under very tricky conditions. Would highly recommend him for any work you require.
Samuels carpentry and construction prides itself with providing a local friendly service. With over 20 years experience in construction covering all aspects We are fully insured , qualified and cover all aspects of carpentry and construction Within our community. Get in contact today for a free estimate, Alternatively. Find us on instagram (Samuels carpentry ).
I ended up hiring Sam to replace all my internal doors and one double door frame. What started as a positive experience ended up quite miserably: Sam did a botched job on the frame and the new double doors (the doors are not levelled, neither are the handles, the frame is not flush with walls etc). Also, black marks on the trimmed edges, numerous scratches, screws at an angle and so on. He did promise to come back and fix some of the issues, but never did.
Hello we are FRPM Ltd a compete property maintenance company with over 20 years experience so if it’s a leaking tap to a complete property renovation we are here to help so please do not hesitate to call for your free quote Areas we cover Worcestershire Gloucestershire Warwickshire And the Cotswolds We have years of experience working with listed buildings and pride ourselves and our level of knowledge and expertise in this area We also cover light commercial premises for maintenance contracts and adhoc works We are fully insured
'%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}
We are a family run building company, we cover a wide range of works from joinery , building, landscaping and maintenance, We have over 20 years experience and pride ourselves on our professional ability to adapt to each of are customers needs Thank you ,,and hope to help you with your job whatever the size big or small
Excellent work!
Eurocenter - Online Ltd
Groundwork / Foundations
We are one of the best building and renovation company in London since 2011. Our experience taken over many years and different architects helping us to provide a service meeting the highest quality standards in every detail, making our homes and city beautiful...
We are a family run Utility & reinstatement business that are based in the area of Coventry. We have been trading since 2016. We specialise in gas, water and electric service renewals to existing and new builds and also offer driveways, and drop kerb services. Also brickwork ,concrete pads . Garden make overs . All our workers are time served with correct credentials and experience. We hold the below accreditations 1. iso9001 2. Constructionline Gold 3. Acclaim 4. SSIP 5. LRQA GAS, WATER & ELECTRIC services & mains 6. Tarmac, backfill, bricklaying nvq
The initial introduction from Justin made me feel very reassured even though I'd never used this company before. He visited the house and quoted the drainage job answering all my concerns very promptly. The job was completed to a high standard and the site was left clean and tidy. I've been and checked the workmanship today and I am so pleased. Martyn and Justin are very friendly and professional tradesman and I would be very happy to recommend them.
Quality of work and customer satisfaction are key concepts that we do our utmost to ensure. We carry out the majority of building works ourselves and do not subcontract unless absolutely necessary. Having spent many years in the construction industry, we are experienced builders. We install all types of flooring, including Engineered Oak, LVT, Karndean and laminate flooring. We also install kitchens, fitted bedrooms and just about everything carpentry.
General builders and energy saving specialists since 1994
Came out as arranged and said would give a quote for several jobs required including the damp repair .he said he would send quotes over on the friday 3rd november and am still waiting.
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.
MBC DEMOLITION LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
We are a Multi Based Construction company covering the whole of the south. We offer a quality assured solution to all aspects of construction Services we offer and not limited to: •all aspects of demolition&salavge •All aspects of groundwork’s •Asbestos removal •all aspects of landscaping •Soft&hard strip out •salvage •clearance Our team all hold cscs hse ccdo We are approved by safe contractor.
I do all roofing and gutters and lead work and all brickwork and pointing
Very helpful and very prompt
Westech property care is a family run business which has been thriving for over 20 years. The team include myself and my son we also have my son in law who has worked with us for a number of years we have now added another member to the team bill who is my Nephew. We are a friendly and approachable business with 5 star ratings our work profile includes New roofs Roof repairs Fascia Soffits Guttering Uni dry verge And dry ridge Please do not hesitate to ask any questions and we will try to help in any way Kind reguards, David.
On time good job, would recommend.
Hi, we are a small business based in DONCASTER,and surrounding are. We specialise in bathroom refurbs, disabled level access wet rooms, tiling and plumbing. We offer a very friendly and enjoyable service as we know having work done can be a stressful which is our top priority to make sure this isn't the case. With 10 years’ experience we now have the experience at hand to make sure all work is at the highest standard. We are fully insured for all work we carry out. We always offer a competitive quote for our work and we are very professional at what we do. We pride ourselves in our reputation. We hope our feedback speaks for itself. K&F decorative is one of the Doncaster Property Maintenance Service. We have over 10 years’ experience in property maintenance, working in high end residences, as well as office and retail spaces. It is our aim to provide an outstanding, bespoke customer experience, to leave every customer delighted with the service and the job they have received . Our tradesmen carry out thousands of skilled jobs including: plumbing, handyman, painting and decorating, finding and resolving leaks, dr
Very punctual and helpful and job done to perfection Many thanks
Bristol House Extensions is a family owned business. Our workforce is fully qualified and experienced at working in domestic and commercial properties and carries out work for our customer, customer satisfaction is our main priority.
Really helpful people to deal with.
GARAGE CONVERSION SPECIALISTS with a vast portfolio and customer base, our company has been established 10 years. Fully insured, all employees and sub contractors cscs trained/qualified. All works completed to a high standard at competitive prices
Thank you James, and ? ,sorry not sure of your name, for an excellent job replacing our bath sealant, then replacing broken door knob and fitting new toilet seat. All relatively small jobs but still booked us in swiftly and did an great job for a reasonable price. . Would use again and would highly recommend.
Alpha Plumbing & heating Northwest
Groundwork / Foundations
Alpha plumbing have been established for over 15 years we are based in widnes and carry out all aspects of Domestic and Commercial plumbing, heating and maintenance work, we also have a full building team that can carry out all aspects of building work from a small exstension, loft conversion or a new build house whatever you require start to finish our build team has a wealth of knowledge. Back to the plumbing and heating We believe in gender equality and to show this we have a female plumber on the team. We are a reliable team that provides a quality job and good customer service along with great workmanship. We specialise in boiler installations and reactive maintenance, no job is too big or small other aspecs include -big and small system powerflushing -servicing and maintenance -Cold water main boosting systems -unvented hot water systems -commercial maintenance -legionnaires checks -saniflow maintenance and replacement Nothing we wont resolve if you have an issue that seems a problem to others then get intouch we love a challenge If your looking for quality and reliability along with a company that is available 24/7 then give us call. Not yet reviewed on here but we have plenty on google if you search Alpha plumbing widnes we come up. All our work is guaranteed
Hi I’m Jason p & Darren c Been a master builders for 25+ years worked on grade A listed building to flats cottages semi detached bungalow any building works all come with the standard 7 year guarantee, I’m professional clean tidy tradesman that can put our hand to all trades except electrical & plumbing Customers paramount as word & mouth is very important in the building industry , punctual and always at the end of the phone if needed trust is a big factor also for both the tradesman & the client working relationships work brilliantly, Carpentry work , painting & decorating , rising damp & penetrative damp works , gutter facia eaves installation , cleaning gutters removals everything covered to the highest possible standard achievable Pls allow me to work on your property and showcase my skills many thanks Jason p & Darren c no payments ever made until works completed .
Worked hard to get job done and honoured his price despite having difficulty getting materials.
we are a small family run business that cover all aspects of roofing. we offer a professional and friendly service that covers most of Hampshire with all our work being guaranteed. All quotes are free with no obligation
John did a great job for the price quoted despite me not having enough clout nails. Will use again.
Hi johnsons renovations is a small, reliable company with a exceptional standard of work everything must be perfect and tidy wether it be painting and decorating , bathrooms , kitchen , tiling and everything else we do , such as . Plumbing Carpentry Partioning Fascia, soffits and guttering Bathrooms Kitchens Windows, doors and locks Roofing Tiling Painting and decorating And loads more. We offer full installations and general repairs, we will genuinely offer you the best options for you situation and not ours , we have over 20 yrs experience in multi trade building and are very confident in every job we do and know the customer will be made up with the result . Thank you for reading
Karl has now completed decorating my living room: laying laminate flooring, painting, etc. He did the work exceptionally well to my utmost satisfaction. He seems to be a very tidy worker and a good listener too. I highly recommend him.
CK Construction
Groundwork / Foundations
'%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