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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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With over a decade of hands-on experience delivering premium homes fit-outs, I specialize in transforming spaces into elegant, functional sanctuaries tailored to the highest standards of design and craftsmanship. Over the past 10 years, I’ve led and completed a wide range of bespoke refurbished projects in some of the most prestigious residential and commercial properties across [your region or city]. My work blends precision installation with an eye for detail, using only the finest materials and working closely with architects, interior designers, and clients to ensure a flawless finish every time. From custom stonework and high-spec tiling to smart tech integrations and luxury fixtures, every element is carefully executed to create a space that reflects sophistication and comfort. Core Strengths: •Luxury homes installation & project management •In-depth knowledge of high-end brands & materials •Seamless integration of lighting, underfloor heating & smart controls •Stone, marble, and bespoke tile craftsmanship •Collaborative approach with design and build teams •Discreet, clean, and reliable workmanship in occupied homes Whether it’s a minimalist modern spa or a timeless classic retreat, I bring each vision to life with unmatched attention to detail and pride in the final result.
Brilliant service, arived on time and carried out the job in very quick time. Cleaned up after job compleet. Very happy to recomend.
My names mr Ackleton my company is Goldstar construction. I have been in the building trade for over 15 years, I have taken on lots of jobs from exterior painting, brickwork, roof repairs, landscaping and lots more. I have had many satisfied customers.
Level Up Building & Groundworks Ltd
Groundwork / Foundations
We are a small company, specialising in supplying quality workmanship, to customers, all our installers have aquiared many years of experience, this includes electrician, carpenters, painters, floor layers , we specialise in garage conversions, and refurbishment work ,
Good communication throughout the process. The job was well done. Premises left tidy. Rubbish collection arranged. I would definately use again.
We always aim to keep our customers happy and we love recommendation we have years of experience and a very friendly respectable team we use the best equipment to ensure our customers get what they desire.
Great job!! Very pleased with the new fencing. Thanks.
ADI CARE&CONSTRUCT LTD is one company with more than 20 years of experience in construction. we have skills like partitioning, extension, plastering, painting, laminate, tiling, paving , and gardening. We are working fast, clean, and open to offer good service and prices. My Company is looking for extending in Doncaster area and not only. We need all trust and support, and we offer the same. Thanks .
Good quality work. Got the job done quickly. Would recommend!
Hallmark Kitchen and Bathrooms use NICEIC approved electricians Part P &17 Edition Qualified and use gas safe heating engineers. We do the work from start to finish or part fit inclusive of tiling, plastering, carpentry and rubbish disposal. OAP discounts
A good solid floor fitted to our conservatory with extra damp proofing added to solve a previous issue. Would definitely use again.
Next Level bricklaying services with an exceptional level of quality workmanship and service.
I am delighted with the quality of Lefter's work. The job was a demanding one, and he responded to all the challenges. He is a perfectionist who works very hard. He is very easy to talk to and happy to explain how things are developing. I would recommend him highly.
Landscaping, Garden designs,resin drives, block paving, patio designs.extensions,home renovation. living walls and much more. we always make sure our clients are 100% happy with quality of our work, and best possible prices.
Superb job. Nice people all round. Defrim, Al and Mel - the three musketeers who made the magic happen. When asked they did. Very happy with result, thoroughly recommend. Hope my back will get the same treatment some time - after I win the lottery !
Elevations welcomes you here to explore and discover our services making sure your current or future projects are achievable and in trusted, experienced hands. Providing a hassle free, honest and transparent service with our one goal one vision outlook. Trading for 17 years we have built a great customer base base within the midlands and beyond. Please explore our portfolio also our website below for further information.
Even though I did not carry out the job in the end , this company was very helpful and responded to all my questions. And gave me his honest opinions.
hi! I have a small team and we can do: -complete bathroom refurbishment -kitchen refurbishment- tiles and a carpentry job..
Florin and his team were exceptional. Extremely hardworking, they paid a lot of attention to the details and to making us happy. They are also just very nice people. We are delighted with the final outcome and would recommend Florin to everyone.
FINISHERS. You're complete building & decorating solutions. Established 1995 , finishers is a family ran business in the centre of Cambridge we guarantee any work undertaken will be completed to the highest standards. For a free quote contact FINISHERS
my potting shed was reglazed and the rotten wood replaced arrived on time to give an estimate Work completed to a high standard prompt reliable Michael was open honest and the work done was value for money
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
Dorset Extensions Group Ltd
Groundwork / Foundations
Transforming homes in Dorset WE DO IT ALL JUST CALL ! We are your one stop construction and electrical company whether your a home owner or a business we cater to all your building and electrical needs. Trust Dorset Extensions to bring your home and electrical improvements to life.
AMS JOINERY SERVICES are a thriving business based in Glasgow & West Lothian covering central Scotland for over 20 years.We work hard to achieve client satisfaction 100%
Andy is a joiner and he built my TV stand, he was so nice and made me feel comfortable chatting away while doing his job and my TV stand was up in a bout 15/20 mins he even put my TV onto my new stand and I am hoping he has time to get time to build my daughters flat pack dining table and 4 chairs, a nice TV stand for living room and a small set of drawers for her daughter's bedroom also his prices are very reasonable all in great Job Andy.
INPROJECT CONSTRUCTION LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
WELCOME INPROJECT CONSTRUCTION - Building your future, one brick at a time. We have completed numerous projects, from small renovations to large commercial constructions. Our portfolio includes residential and commercial buildings, educational and healthcare facilities, and industrial constructions. Our mission at INPROJECT CONSTRUCTION Ltd is to provide our clients with exceptional construction services that exceed their expectations. We are committed to delivering high-quality workmanship, on-time completion, and cost-effective solutions. What sets us apart is not just our ability to construct buildings but our commitment to building relationships. We believe in honesty, integrity, and transparency in all our dealings with our clients. We value teamwork, professionalism, and continuous learning and improvement. We prioritize transparent communication, ensuring that our clients are informed and involved at every step.
No job is too big or too small for Builder Brothers! With over 15 years of experience in the field our company is confident that we can provide the best service that meets your expectations.
Simply the BEST! I would give them 10 stars if I could. Outstanding work, outstanding service, outstanding quality, outstanding level of detail and outstanding people. Shadi, Rabee and team, not only sorted out my leak, they undertook a major project to repipe my home, fix electrics, paint , put up new storage space, carpentry work , fixing walls etc. The first time that I have seen any builder finish weeks ahead of schedule. They are extremely well organised and operate to the highest degree of precision.
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Renovation Company With over 13 years of Renovation experience Gardens Renovation Exterior Renovation For more details, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Timewaster
Hi my name is Tom I’ve been plastering for 20 years. I provide a clean helpful service and i do my up most to meet customers requirements
Tom came to skim my son's ceiling but because it had old artex and very uneven he decided to put a false ceiling in, board that and then skim it. Tom is a really friendly guy, kept showing me where he was up to in the job and was very tidy and did a great overall job at a good price. Wouldn't hesitate to use Tom again or recommend to friends and family.
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