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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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Groundwork / Foundations
Goat Waste & Maintenance
Groundwork / Foundations
We work off trust and quality of work, along with the best customer service, making sure clients are happy and satisfied at all times. We have a combined total of 25 years experience in the Maintenance and Waste Trade in the Oxfordshire area. Fully insured and licensed up to 10 million for customers and employees. Please do not hesitate to contact us, we look forward to hearing from you.
With experience from Italy and from U.K in painting and decorating. Wi try to doo our best for the client, to give quality , responasability,advice if its necesary in our jobs. We belive your home should reflect your personal taste and style.
Cristian and his team were great. They are professional, highly skilled and polite. Would recommend.
Whether you're in need of a renovation, facing an emergency leak, requiring asbestos removal, or seeking efficient waste management services, we've got all your needs covered. Look no further for comprehensive property solutions at competitive rates. As proud members of the Federation of Master Builders, our skilled and experienced team possesses the necessary expertise to tackle any project. With a robust track record of successfully completing a variety of jobs in both commercial and residential settings, our team is fully equipped to handle projects of any size and complexity. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we are committed to delivering optimal results for you. Choose Nu Space for a seamless, reliable, and expert approach to meet your requirements.
Very satisfied with the work installing garden hand rails done by Morgan and Jamie. Would recommend them based on their professionalism and the end product.
I am a general builder that has many skills, I have built extentions, fitted kitchens and bathrooms, removed and rebuilt interior walls, fitted windows and doors. I also have done all specialist types of external rendering, I also tile walls and floors not only with your everyday tiles but I also do natural products such as stone. I laid patios, turf and general gardening,
Chris did a great job of tiling and I wouldn’t hesitate to ask him to do another job for us.
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES LONDON LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
At Environmental services London ltd we provide services such as Damp proofing, internal renovations, Roofing and building, UPVC double glazing/cladding and general home improvements
Stafford & Lloyd heating plumbing - solar hot water systems
Groundwork / Foundations
Family run business since 1995. My son and I pride ourselves in high standards. Design - Build - Maintain. Sustainable builds including extensions and loft conversions. Renewable heating and hot water installations. Full bathroom and kitchen renovations.
Very pleased with Francisco got our shower working and moved the radiator for us. Good communications arrived on time and also helped us out for another call. Thanks
Welcome to AdvancedWall2Wall, where expertise converges with excellence in house extensions, renovations, and all-encompassing building solutions. As a family-run business with an illustrious legacy of over 30 years in the plumbing and heating industry and a robust background in the building trade, we take pride in transforming your vision into reality. Specializing in house extensions, AdvancedWall2Wall offers a spectrum of services covering every facet of your project, from initial groundwork to the final finishing touches. Our team comprises adept professionals, including experienced gas engineers, bricklayers, and plasterers, all proficient in navigating the complexities of home extensions. From conceptualization to execution, we bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience, ensuring your dream space is realized with precision and care. Our dedicated team of 8-10 professionals is passionate about delivering top-notch craftsmanship in all aspects of building work. Recognizing the importance of a reliable and skilled workforce, we invest in continuous training and development to stay at the forefront of the industry. Whether it's creating a seamless blend of functionality and aesthetics or addressing specific needs within renovations, we bring a wealth of expertise to elevate your project to new heights. At AdvancedWall2Wall, we are a fully insured limited company, placing the safety and security of our clients at the forefront. Our commitment to excellence extends beyond craftsmanship to offer you the peace of mind that comes with working with a reputable and reliable partner. Trust us to breathe life into your ideas, with an unwavering dedication to quality, integrity, and customer satisfaction that sets AdvancedWall2Wall apart in the building industry. Your vision, our expertise – together, we build dreams.
Would highly recommend Wayne. Quick response to my advert, came out to look at the job quickly and arrived early, gave me the best quote and has done the job when he said he would and to a great standard. Really helpful and friendly, wouldn’t hesitate to use him again for future jobs.
Dedicated to our craft. We cover all aspects of building work including: - home extentions - renovations - conversions - plumbing and heating - kitchens - roofing - all general building work
Gary and his team are very professional and did an excellent job. Gary takes a great pride in his work and does all the preparation necessary to ensure a smooth and efficient job. Had extra work done re rendering, driveway and patio as their work was so good. Would recommend
Thank you for reading our profile. We have over 20 years experience in all aspects of Roofing, from small repairs to a full new roof. We really do care about all our customers and take pride in our work . We are hard working, punctual and honest.
A friendly service you can trust to get the job done ((( liability insured )))
Dave and Dylan did a grand job providing retaining sleepers and going above and beyond. Friendly and helpful. I would certainly recommend as a trusty and reliable tradesman.
Avion Homes LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
At Avion Homes, we specialise in new build homes — delivering quality housing from concept to completion. Whether you're a landowner, investor, or first-time buyer, we offer a complete service that covers the full construction life cycle: from early-stage planning, design coordination, and procurement, right through to handover. As TrustMark and Federation of Master Builders (FMB) members, we’re committed to the highest standards of professionalism, reliability, and workmanship. Every project is backed by Premier Guarantee structural warranties, giving you long-term peace of mind. We combine the hands-on care of a local builder with the systems and structure of a professional developer — ensuring your vision is delivered on time, on budget, and built to last. From land to home — we make it happen.
I have been working painter and decorating with 16 years . I'm trustworthy reliable tradesman.I do exterior and inerior painting decorating, plastering I'm honest and hardworking person.my work is always done on time and my price are reasonable
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I have been a builder for 42 years. I do brickwork, repointing, drainage, block paving, patios, concreting, landscaping, stone work, exterior painting etc.. I cover all aspects of building work. and all aspects of groundwork and we specialise in lime mortar pointing
Great job! I’m really pleased with the service I received and will definitely be using again soon. Thanks
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.
Over 20 years of experience in commercial and domestic construction projects.
Excellent work. Friendly and meticulous. We will use Artur again if we need him. It was a big job but very well executed. We had a complete new kitchen installed including new flooring.
Welcome to our page! Who we are: The company was founded in 2015 and since then has registered a rapid growth in its expertise, reputation and a wide acknowledgment in the community of South West part of London. This was possible to achieve with our dedicated team that has its primary motivation and a magnificent obsession to put SERVICE FIRST! Our team has experience of over 20 years of working in the field and we put passion to all details as we think that details are responsible for making the difference between good job and a great job, between average job and outstanding job! We understand that our succes is not only possible because we meet the expectations of our clients but we are committed to exceed them. Our experience tells us that you will not only remain pleased with our service but you will tell all your friends about it and that is how we expanded. It is pleasing to notice how our old clients are keeping coming back to us and referring their friends. What we do: We have a creative approach to deliver to you what you want in the best way possible. We do that by designing, remodelling, creating, building and finishing of your living or working space. We know how to turn your house into a place where you will enjoy spending time. Your house should be your favourite location, it should be a place where you could recharge, you could feel good instantly as you enter it and we know the science behind it, even down to the colours of your walls, the arrangement of your furniture and how that affects your state of being. We know how to create that environment that stimulates your well-being. Either you think to redesign your kitchen, your bathroom or any other of your living spaces, we are committed to serve you and help you to make your dreams a reality. We give colours to your dreams! Why? We believe you deserve a better experience when you are undertaking any design, building or decorating project and it shouldn't be a hassle. We believe your house can be transformed to a holiday destination! We believe service first approach is how business should be conducted. We believe there can be trust of 100% because we consider our clients our bigger family and are guided by the philosophy that what we do to another affects us ultimately. We want you to be our next happy costumer and we want to develop a long term relationship with you so that you enjoy the process of your renovations. The journey can be pleasing as well!
I cannot rate this company highly enough Reliable, hardworking and trustworthy I will definitely use them again
Rds roofing specialist is family run business with 30 years in the industry. We are experts in all aspects of roofing have a look at my profile and reviews 5 star work we are new roof specialist have a look at my profile on my builder over 790 5 star reviews I look forward to hearing from you . Thanks Russ
We have over 20 years of experience in ground work and landscape gardening and building services and our aim is to put our 20 year experience into your home so you can have a good experience using our service
Thanks James for completing an excellent job, very pleased with the work carried out. The team were excellent, friendly but professional. James knew exactly the issues and gave great advice and guidance. The team worked none stop throughout the day and the outcome is exactly what I wanted. I would definately recommend J M G Building Services to anyone and will be using them again in the future.
Thank you for looking to consider volt developments and construction, here we pride ourselves on good hard work and quality craftsmanship. we like to put extra time in to bringing you the best quality work on your project weather it might be a big brick wall with foundations, a little driveway refurb or a restoration project ! Our years of experience paints a whole new picture for the up and coming young tradesmen. Having been trained by some of the best in the business we each bring our acquired skills to the table to give you a quick and nice clean turn around on whatever your project may be ! Here at volt, we specialise in Brickwork, Stonework, landscaping, groundworks & driveways and a-lot more (please don’t hesitate to ask! ) we also work along side some other good trades including roofers, plasters & gas engineers meaning we have alot of knowledge under our belts and a good network of connection’s within the construction industry. we were pushed to our limits in area’s of special brickwork including arches, ponds, twisted pillars & serpentines all of witch are very intricate and very desirable and make us stand out from the rest ! we are fully insured for all of our work and always work closely with any customer concerning budgets and budgeting techniques to make the process a whole lot easier for each party, we aim to make it as less stressful for the homeowner as I personally have dealt with a few who are abit unsure to start off but are overwhelmed with the outcomes and customer satisfaction ! Testimonials will all be on our page for everyone to see. Thank you for your time to consider us and we hope we can work along side anyone and everyone to get their dreams fulfilled
Spot on from start to finish. Understood the assignment and details of the job and executed perfectly. Ensured everything was done to detail. Would definitely recommend and use again. Many thanks Phil.
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