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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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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!
Hi this is Mo from Britefinish, handyman with over 10 years experience. The wide range services offered with honesty reliability punctuality and professionalism. Handyman Services offered : All Flat Pack Furniture Assembly TV Wall Mounting Door Fitting/Trimming Fitting door Handles, latches, locks,etc Flooring: Laminate, vinyl, carpet, decking etc Odd Jobs e.g fix kitchen cabinet doors and drawers & floating shelves and mirrors Bespoke Furniture Fitting Flatpack Bookshelf/Bookcase Assembly Floating Shelves Fitting Curtain Pole Fitting Roller Blinds Fitting Kitchen Cabinet/Unit Fitting Kitchen Worktop Fitting Hanging mirrors Interior Door Installation/Fitting Internal Locks Britefinish assemble all types of flat pack items including: wardrobes, chest of drawers, beds, kitchen units, sheds, gym equipment, guest beds, bunk beds, office desk, chairs, sofas, garden furniture, home furniture, office furniture, swing sets,bikes, exercise equipment .... Britefinish assemble flatpack furniture items from major retailers: Ikea, Argos, Bensons for beds, Tesco,The Range, John Lewis, Dreams, Harveys, Very, Wayfair,Wickes, Tesco, B&Q, Amazon, Ebay, etc
Great work, very reliable and efficient.
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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.
Based in Bath, Father's House Carpentry/ Painting & Decorating is a trusted, rated and reliable team of Carpentry specialist.
Kris did a great job for the whole house decorating. He’s thoughtful, transparent, knowledgeable and very professional. My house has not been professionally painted for a decade, some places were long overdue. Kris worked very hard, he kept me updated all the time. Kris is a kind person and I trust him.
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.
Taylor Made Gardens is a family run, friendly company. All jobs taylor made to suit at reasonable prices. free no obligation quotes. fast and Efficient. all work guaranteed. Fully Insured
So very pleased with the 35 metre feather board fence installed by Taylor Made Gardens. Will certainly use them again. Roger was easy to get along with and worked steadily with total attention to quality. The new fence looks great. Thanks.
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.
We offer a quality driven, reliable team of people to undertake most exterior maintenance and installations in both the domestic & commercial sector. Our field of work includes but not limited to Domestic & Security Fencing, Stone/Concrete Paving, Brickwork, RePointing, Groundworks, Decking, Driveway Renewals/Cleaning/Sealing, Turf Installation/Removal, Aggregate Installation/Removal, Tree Felling/Stump Grinding, Demolitions & Waste Removals Extensive experience, planning and communication are our strong points and we always look to do our very best in talking the customer through the work and provide advice where needed. We can supply a complete package of sourcing, designing and installing all work needed. We will where possible always try to be cost effective and if we can help in making you a saving then we will. We always leave a job tidy and a customer happy.
Daniel was on time, stuck to the budget and completed the work to an extremely high standard. I wouldn’t hesitate to employ him for any future landscaping work.
J R Griffiths roofing we specialise at 're roofing, slate tiles and leadwork. also chimney work undertook. Rubber roof and also grp
Reasonably priced, job completed the next day couldn't ask for anything more.
I am a local tradesman with 25 years of experience in the building and plastering industry. I have a great, reliable team behind me who are not only friendly and professional but will also finish every job to the highest standard possible.
Really happy with the work carried out. Any issues I raised were dealt with and any snagging I needed addressing were resolved. Would recommend Luke and his company and use him again.
Pinecraft construction has been established since 2003. I do all aspects of building work, joinery, plumbing,minor electrics, alterations, extensions,newbuilds,tiling,etc. No job is too big or small. I take pride in my work and will always offer the best of my ability and experience to my customers and always turn up on time as agreed. I offer a great job at reasonable prices to all of my customers.
We are very happy with the results of our kitchen. Derek did a great job.he is very respectful, profesional and punctual. We will definitely save his number.
Our family has been mastering our trade for over 25 years, with two generations currently involved. We take pride in offering extensive knowledge and assistance to our clients, covering a wide range of areas when it comes to renovations and refurbishments. From the start of the project to its final completion, we offer help, guidance, advice, and assistance to create the perfect interior and exterior. Our services include comprehensive flooring solutions such as tiling, laminate installations, underfloor heating, and more. We also specialize in drywall/plasterboard installations, including unique shapes with hidden lights, cornices, and wallpapering. We are experts in every aspect of painting and decorating, and our true passion lies in creating bespoke, one-of-a-kind decorative plastering designs that offer limitless possibilities. From silky-smooth, polished, or shiny finishes to bold pearly effects, rough 3D-looking designs, and much more. We can even create custom-made paintings on almost any surface, including walls, ceilings, and mirrors. You can trust us to bring your vision to life with our exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Introducing "Handyman in London": Home Renovations Painting Decorating Are you in search of a skilled and reliable handyman in London to take care of your home improvement needs? Look no further than Handyman London, where expertise meets dedication. With over 22 years of hands-on experience in bricklaying, plastering, and painting, we are your go-to solution for all things home repair. Our founder, a seasoned solo builder with a wealth of knowledge, has dedicated years to perfecting the art of transforming houses into homes. However, life took an unexpected turn when faced with health challenges that remain undiagnosed. Despite these difficulties, our commitment to delivering exceptional service has only grown stronger. At Handyman London, we pride ourselves on our versatility and attention to detail. Whether you need a wall repointed, a room painted, or a plastering job done to perfection, we've got you covered. Our founder's extensive experience ensures that each project is approached with a keen eye for craftsmanship and a passion for turning your vision into reality. In addition to our expertise, we understand the importance of trust when inviting someone into your home. Our commitment to professionalism and reliability sets us apart. Rest assured, when you choose Handyman London, you are not just hiring a handyman; you are gaining a trustworthy partner in maintaining and enhancing your living space. Though our founder faces health challenges, our dedication to our clients remains unwavering. Our partnership with Rated People reflects our commitment to transparency and quality, ensuring that your satisfaction is our top priority. Experience the difference with Handyman in London – where reliability, craftsmanship, and dedication converge to create a home you can truly be proud of. Contact us today and let us turn your home improvement dreams into a reality.
I cannot recommend Grigore and his team highly enough. After a long-term tenant left my property in a terrible state, I urgently needed a builder who could work quickly and efficiently to bring the house back up to a high standard and minimize void periods. Grigore provided a fantastic quote and started the job within a day. The results were nothing short of exceptional. Even the estate agents who came to value the property were thoroughly impressed, and I’ve since received multiple offers. Thank you!!
Over 30 years experience in all joinery, paintings and building.
Professional in his approach. Worked well. Very pleased with the work he did. I would recommend him to others.
We are an established building company that has been trading for 20 years.Our work covers all types of construction from new builds to repairs,including extensions and loft conversions.All our work is high quality and reasonably priced.No job is too small
Job was easy to arrange, done quickly & good price too. Very pleased & would definitely use them again.
NICEIC approved and fully insured electrical contractors covering all of London. Welcome to the world of Bennet Baldwin Ltd. We are the premium choice in emergency electrical work, offering our expertise and service to keep your home and business safe. Our team of professional and reliable contractors are available 24/7 to attend to all kinds of emergency electrical repairs and issues. Whether it’s fixing a faulty circuit or replacing your old fuse board, you can count on us to deliver the highest quality work at competitive prices. With the best materials, a comprehensive guarantee and full customer satisfaction, you can rest assured that you will get the perfect solution for your electrical needs. We understand that emergencies can occur anytime and we take pride in offering a fast and efficient response to ensure your safety and comfort. Our experienced electricians know exactly what needs to be done and are always prepared for any challenge. With the latest technology and top of the line safety equipment, no job is too big or small for us. At Bennet Baldwin Ltd, we strive to provide excellent customer service and value for money. With a free quote and free consultation service, you can be sure that you will get the best solution for your electrical requirements. Make the right choice with Bennet Baldwin Ltd . Put your mind at ease and get in touch with us today!
Quotes shared timely, good communication and excellent work done in under a week. Will certainly use their services again if needed. Recommended.
I am a fully qualified Painter and Decorator with over 27 years of experience in the building trade, and I’m also very competent in other areas of the construction industry. I have a full Multi trade/Property Maintenance Building Company that covers all aspects of the building trade, from small jobs to full house renovations. With my team of very competent and experienced tradesmen We specialise in kitchen and bathroom fit outs, and also do renovations, loft conversions and garage conversions.
Excellent service, friendly, efficient and great quality of work. Would recommend!
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.
We have been trading for 23 years in plumbing. We offer all plumbing needs. We also have an emergency call out.
Very helpful and worked above and beyond to sort another option for a favourable outcome
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