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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 family run business with over 10 years experience in the building trade, we are very trust worthy and reliable always accomadating the customers needs. We specialise in all trade s from plumbing, electrical, carpentry ,full renovation s etc to pa
Very punctual and gave us I good advice and lots of ideas for layout of bathroom.
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Interiors4you is a norwich based company with over 25 years experience covering all trades within the building trade and working with the individual client to complete there project.
Great communication from Nigel. He understood the job and worked within my financial limitations to get the job done in a timely manner. Thanks Nigel. Would definitely recommend him.
We are an established roofing company specialising in all aspects of pitched and flat roof repair & installation, recovers, soffits, fascias & guttering, & leadwork. New installations are covered by Insurance backed guarantee. Fully Insured & NVQ trained. We have recently been endorsed by Which as one of their trusted traders.
Very professional, came out quickly to price up and then arranged the day when the work was done. The insurance company messed us about but The Roof Doctor sorted out our issue and cleaned everything up afterwards. We are very happy with the work.
We do all aspects of roofing work from replacing a broken tile to a full re-roof with over 25 years experience with free quotations on all of our jobs. We are fully insured with liability insurance. We give an 15 year guarantee on all new felt flat roofs. And a 25 year guarantee on new house roofs
Hard working , very professional. Honest and reliable. Great job ???? Very pleased ????
Welcome to HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS & SERVICES (HIPS HOMES) Ltd, where excellence meets integrity. We offer a wide range of construction services, ensuring quality and efficiency in every project. Discover our outstanding reviews and let us help you make hips of SAVINGS on your budget, add VALUE to your property, and enhance your own and or your tenant's COMFORT. #HipsHomes #HomeImprovement #TrustedBuilders #QualityCraftsmanship
Ernest is a very hardworking tradesman. He replaced locks for us.
we are now classed as 'experts' check out our recent and old GENUINE REVIEWS and make your own decision. if you want polite,experienced,friendly and honest team to make your roof beautiful and safe again regards Scott Ryan
Haven't had the work done but initial meeting very positive with no hard sell seemed to know exactly what the problem is so very hopeful
We are a company who specialise in all types of domestic roofing .We have had the same staff for the last 9 years so all staff are completely trained .I have been a roofer for 34 years I first did my apprenticeship on new estates then church roofs so have covered all types of roofing ,I also have an advanced level nvq in slating and tiling so having worked to a high standard in my early days I have maintained this throughout my working life and personally trained my staff to the same standard as shows in all our reviews
Probably the best roofer in the NorthWest. Reliable, professional, honest and competitive. Thank you to you and your team Steve for an excellent service. Saqib. Barton Road. Stretford.
Hi,I'm Bill from reliable roofing, with reliable roofing you will get a fully insured very experienced tradesman specialist in all types of roofs,both repairs and renewal's, and very competitive prices on all pvcu facias soffits gutter and cladding.
Bill and his team were brilliant! Polite and punctual. Competitive quote and finished the job on time. Left the site clean and tidy. Would definitely recommend and use Reliable Roofing again.
We are a small company based in Sunderland,we cover all building work including extensions,loft conversions,kitchens,bathrooms and full refurbs
Excellent work from Steve and his team - weather hampered completion, but Steve kept us informed and the team delivered a great job ready for our new gates to be fitted ... the pillars look like the original and have always been there and they made a great job of the other works especially the blending in of the drive cobbles
Hi, my name is Neil. I've been a Landscape Gardener for 17 years and hold a City and Guilds Certificate in Decorating. My wife is also certified in Garden Design. We have two loyal members of staff and deliver a friendly and reliable service.
Good communication and all work completed to an excellent standard. No problems.
My name is Jason Radbourne, I am the sole owner of JR Handyman Services, I am a family man and have been trading since 2001. I pride myself on being reliable, hardworking and trustworthy.
Great job done , Jason worked hard , communication was great, he was punctual , very friendly and worked hard . Delighted with the result - just what we wanted and will definitely call him again if we need help in the garden - highly recommended
Lindley Developments are committed to offering first class products and services at competitive prices. We have over 40 years experience in the construction industry, providing roofing works, building, Internal alterations and all types of glazing.
Immediate response and great work
All aspects of Carpentry and Joinery. 30 years plus experience. Majority of work involves finishings. Flooring, doors, skirtings. Subcontract to BMAS carrying out full bathroom refurbishment. Wetrooms, wetwall, all trades catered for.
Jim was fantastic - fitted 3 internal doors for us with no nonsense. Even when one door proved difficult (leading to the job taking longer than he thought and eating into his weekend) he took great care with his work and didn't finish until he was completely happy with it. Cheerful too, and likes a wee blether! Would hire him again in a heartbeat ????
TIGER PAVING & LANDSCAPING LTD Experienced and professional installers of paving and hard and soft landscaping services ABOUT US At Tiger Paving & landscaping Ltd, we believe in bringing together the very best in workmanship, and materials, to guarantee you a service that that is second to none . We strive to offer the highest level of quality and attention to detail, with the emphasis on customer satisfaction and value for money. Our hand picked team are dedicated ,highly skilled with many years experience and most importantly care about your garden project as much as you do! AREAS WE COVER We cover the whole of Kent, South East London and Kent/Sussex borders with the majority of our clients being located between Ashford and Bromley area's. WHY CHOOSE US Each job large or small, is fully project managed from the first call, through to completion, with the emphasis on attention to detail and 100% customer satisfaction. We are fully insured for up to £5 million public and employers liability and carry an upper tier waste licence . When you choose Tiger Paving & landscaping Ltd to carry out your garden project, we want you to not only be thrilled with your transformed outdoor space, but also to enjoy the experience of working with the Tiger Team! HOW CAN WE HELP YOU If you are looking to re-vamp your outdoor space and would like some idea's, and help with the best way to get the most from your budget. Or even if you know exactly what you want, but want to make sure that you are using the right company to come and make your dream garden a reality, then please contact us for an appointment to come and discuss your requirements SERVICES THAT WE OFFER Fencing, Driveways, Patio's Resin bound surfacing, Brickwork & rendering, Turfing, Artificial turf Decking, Sheds and summer houses Garden clearance and maintenance. Tree and stump removal Concrete slab bases FREE ESTIMATES We offer a no obligation free site visit and written estimate, or if you are just curious about potential cost for a future job and can provide us with dimensions and photo's of your garden, we can also provide you with a ball park estimate/budget figure for your project via email. WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA Visit our FB or Instagram pages via our website to see some more of our current and previous work www.tigerpavingandlandscaping.co.uk We hope that our services are of interest to you and look forward to hearing from you! The Tiger Team .
What Can I say !? Nicola, Paul and the team did a brilliant job from start to finish ! Nicola always on the ball either texting or phoning with updates when required. Paul and his team doing the grafting in the garden and overcoming obstacles easily! Great solid new fencing all round ! Will certainly use them again!
with over 25 years experience at all aspects of joinery & property maintenance.all work guaranteed.fast clean tidy & reliable.call me now for your free quotation. SM JOINERY & PROPERTY MAITENANCE.
Very quick response and nice neat job
we are a friendly family run business. providing a quality job at a good price.
They did a great job, left the place nice and tidy and at a good price, couldn't fault them all would definitely recommend! Was also a quick turnaround from quoting to finishing off the work
Welcome to Aurora Skylights and building services.We are a family run building company and pride ourselves on customer care as can be seen in our ratings. Please check out our new website at Aurora skylights.
Marcus priced job for pointing and brickwork 17th April and was done and dusted 30th April. Pleased with job and would recommend.
Greenstone Krzysztof (Chris) Wlodarczyk is a provider of professional bathroom and kitchen installation and refurbishment services. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, I have built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service. Our team of skilled professionals consists of experienced plumber, electrician, carpenter and tiler who are dedicated to transforming your bathroom and kitchen spaces into stunning and functional areas. We understand that these rooms are essential parts of your home, and we take pride in creating spaces that meet your unique style preferences and lifestyle 1. Bathroom Installation and Refurbishment - Complete bathroom design and layout planning. - Installation of bathroom fixtures, including sinks,toilets, showers, bathtubs,faucets,etc. - Plumbing and electrical work. - Tiling and flooring installation. - Underfloor heating installation. - Vanity unit installation. - Lighting and ventilation solutions. - Painting and finishing touches. 2. Kitchen Installation and Refurbishment - Installation of kitchen cabinets, countertops, sinks and faucets. - Plumbing and electrical work. - Tiling and flooring installation . - Appliance installation. - Lighting and ventilation solutions. - Painting and finishing touches. 3. Refurbishment services - Plastering. - Painting and decorating. - Wooden floor installation. - Bespoke made furniture installation. - Marble and natural stone installation. We prioritize customer satisfaction and strive to exceed your expectations at every step of the project. We will work closely with you, providing guidance and support throughout the process, from initial concept development to the final installation. We source high-quality materials and work with trusted suppliers to ensure that your bathroom and kitchen installation are durable, functional, and visually appealing. Our attention to detail and commitment to excellence have earned us loyal clientele and numerous referrals. If you're looking for reliable and professional bathroom and kitchen installation and refurbishment services, choose Greenstone Krzysztof (Chris) Wlodarczyk. Contact us today to discuss your project requirements, and let us bring your vision to life.
Honest, reliable service. Work carried out to the high standard with a Low price tag. Here at cosywarm plumbing and heating we offer over 15 years experience within the industry. we specialise in all plumbing, heating and ventilation requirements. we are credited Baxi And Ideal installers. All landlord and homeowner cp12 and servicing available. Boiler breakdown specialists. We also are bespoke and traditional bathroom and wet room designers and installers. Reliability and customer service is something this company is built around. No job is too small, and we have engineers available 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week. Our rates are a one off and no hidden charges applied at the end. all work is quoted and agreed upon before anything is started. All work is carried out to a very high standard and customer requirements are always considered. Please call on phone number provided for a free no obligation quote.
Very pleased with the driveway and am looking forward to the firm doing a refurb of my bathroom next month
Welcome to JM Landscapes & Driveways Ltd, your trusted partner in transforming outdoor spaces across the Midlands! We're a family-run business founded on a simple principle: dedication to excellence in gardening and landscaping. At JM Landscapes & Driveways, we specialize in general garden maintenance, paving, fencing, and decking. Whether it's a residential haven or a commercial landscape, our team of two brothers brings a combined 15 years of expertise to every project we undertake. What sets us apart? Our commitment to your satisfaction. We stand by our work and won't expect payment until you are completely thrilled with the results. Your happiness is our priority, and we ensure that our craftsmanship exceeds your expectations. From sprucing up your backyard to creating stunning outdoor spaces, we're passionate about enhancing the beauty and functionality of your property. Our services cater to both domestic and commercial clients, offering tailored solutions to suit every need. When you choose JM JM Landscapes & Driveways Ltd, you're choosing a team dedicated to quality, reliability, and personalized service. Let's transform your landscape into a masterpiece together.
I used the rated people site to try & find a reliable company to relay my front drive. I had a first response from JM Landscapes and Myles of JM actually called out at the weekend, the day after my enquiry, to discuss the job & agree terms Myles, Jim and the team were ready to start the following Monday and worked efficiently and effectively to deliver an excellent job that I would be happy for anyone to view. First class service, first class job.! I can truly thank JM for their work & thoroughly recommend!
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