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.
Plumbing, groundwork and Underground water services At gcb utilities we strive to provide our customers with a high quality end to end service. we know it can be stressful dealing with leaks, repairs and improvements But with our expertise and professional staff we get the job done in good time and with as little disruption to you as possible. From the first contact our friendly staff have you covered. Whether your looking for a leak fixing,you have pressure issues, need pipe work installing or moving, new water supply or external leak repair With our wiaps, chas,constructionline and water safe approval, guaranteed work your in safe hands Give us a call or message for a free no obligation quote
Enthusiastic to sort-out our problem. Planned to meet and it happened bang on time. Came-up with the solution and had the job done within their own time estimate.. Problem solved on time and around the estimated budget. Well done!
We at Ins Construction & Landscape pride ourselves on delivering exceptional construction and landscaping services across London and Kent. Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to transforming your visions into reality with precision and quality, ensuring each project is completed to the highest standard. Discover how our expertise can enhance your home or commercial space, providing aesthetically pleasing and functional environments tailored to your unique needs. Our Expert Services: - Domestic Construction Our domestic construction services are designed to create the perfect living spaces for families in London and beyond. With a focus on contemporary design and sustainable building practices, we ensure each project reflects the unique style and needs of our clients while adhering to the highest quality standards. - Landscape Design Our landscape design services offer innovative solutions to transform your outdoor spaces into captivating environments. From lush gardens to functional outdoor living areas, our expert designers will bring your vision to life, combining creativity with practicality to enhance your property's appeal. - Commercial Projects At Ins Construction & Landscape, we specialise in handling complex commercial projects with precision and expertise. Our team is equipped to manage everything from office builds to retail fit-outs, ensuring minimal disruption to your business while delivering projects on time and within budget.
Thank you Ionut and the team, im so happy to have a space where I can be proud of! I needed the existing paving slabs removed and to put in place decking, artifical grass, and planters put in. They provided the materials and kept me informed in the process. They are hardworking and I saw a huge difference for every day they came. Thank you once again for taking on this project, and I'm so happy this has all been done before summer has started! Would hire again!
Baltic Star Build
Groundwork / Foundations
Our Service We offer free no obligation quotations. Our quotations are always detailed and fully inclusive. Our residential projects includes renovations, loft conversion and extensions. Working on occupied and fully operational homes are never a problem here at Baltic Star Design & Build. Your Build As experienced building contractors, we offer a complete end-to-end client experience from inception of the design of your project, to the build and any additional items such as bespoke kitchens and bathrooms. Why Us Our extensive project management and construction skills along with a multi-disciplinary team, enables us to provide turn-key solutions and beautiful design. Building your Future.
UWB are a small family run business with over 30 years of experience in the building & window & conservatory industry, our services include extentions & new build plus all aspects of alteration work with all associated trades included. Planing, drawings & Building Regs plus steel calcs are all covered by our team to take the pressure of our customers. Windows, Doors, Conservatories, Orangeries WarmRoofs included & are all covered by building control.
Excellent service, very professional, highly recommend
CG Building LTD , it is a small company , established back in 2016. We carry work all around UK , but now we are based in Somerset and we cover all surrounding areas. •We take small & big jobs ! •We do all aspects building •We offer a friendly and reliable service, working closely with the client to make sure they have a clear understanding of the works that are being carried out throughout the process. -Renovations- - Kitchen and bathroom insulations- Plastering. - Painting and decorating. - Carpentry-
Very professional. I would definitely recommend this trades person. Good pricing and great work. I am keeping his contract for work in the future.
With over 15 years' experience in the industry, I am skilled in a variety of areas. This includes carpentry, brickwork, plastering and groundworks. I have worked on projects big and small from new-builds to renovations.
family run business with over 20 years in the roofing industry we can meet all of your roofing needs from flat roofs fibreglass felt or rubber we do small single slate and tile repairs to whole new roofs all UPVC products dry verge systems dry ridge systems all types of guttering basically anything to do with your roof chimney repairs to lead work we do it all hard and soft Brick layer re-pointing /
I call Phill and sons 3 days ago to fix a leak on my roof. I did have the valley fix by an other roofer but they did not do anything just to take my money. I was a bit suspicious but I was happily surprise when I call Phill who repond to my call very quicly. He is very friendly and most of all very professional. So so please with Phill I'll will recommand him anytime.Thank you Phill for your excellent job
Time served joiner of 36 years being in the joinery/ kitchen fitting trade no job to big or to small all aspects of joinery from bespoke to manufacturing from external doors to internal door frames door linings architrave skirting boards laminate flooring but and scribe worktops from laminate worktops to oak work tops free quotes was film by mark miller company installing a kitchen for his TV program dream kitchens and bathrooms for channel 5
Excellent work and a really pleasant man. Will keep contact information for future work and recommend to family and friends.
Who we are Ra1 joinery started trading in 2016 and within that time we have built up a very strong customer base with excellent customer feedback. We cover areas in the north east of England including Stockton Middlesbrough Darlington Hartlepool and Redcar. Our head joiner Rab has 20 years experience in the trade working with master craftsman. We always finish work to the highest of standards. We pride ourselves in taking care in all your joinery and construction needs we quote and take on no matter how small or big the job maybe. For extra peace of mind to our customers we are fully insured by Simply Business. Why choose us # Honest # Trustworthy # Reliable # Professional # Competitive Prices # Guaranteed Professional Workmanship CSCS card NVQ Level 1&2 site Joinery Diploma fitted interiors Diploma in bricklaying Health and safety asbestos awareness Tiling and bricklaying
Contacted me about the work then complained I was too far away wasted my time tbh
'%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}
Sinevir Construction is your trusted partner in construction with over 15 years of experience. We offer a full range of services, including plumbing, tiling, bricklaying, plastering, carpentry, bathroom installations, and building homes from the ground up. We guarantee high quality, adherence to standards, and timely project completion. Our team of professionals uses the best materials and advanced technologies to ensure durability and reliability. We also provide competitive prices, offering an excellent balance of quality and cost. We value open collaboration and consider all your preferences at every stage of the project. Clients choose us for our professionalism, accuracy, and commitment to quality. With Sinevir Construction, your construction dreams become reality, backed by superior results and the best fair pricing.
Very pleased with the work done by Sinevir. I hired them to build a reinforced foundation for an extension, and everything was completed to a high standard. They worked carefully, met deadlines, and used quality materials. It’s clear they know their job well. The foundation is strong and reliable. Thanks for the professional approach!
My name is Shaun Ross .My business name is Agnoscar services Ive been trading since 1997
Job has been accepted by Shaun. Courteous,friendly,professional. Work still to be done.
We have carefully developed a reputation for reliability and high quality workmanship as surfacing contractors and roofing specialists. We specialise in all types of driveways and roofing. Producing exceptional surfacing and roofing solutions for both commercial and domestic customers. Our considerable range ofservices includes repairs, new roofs, guttering, driveways, pathways, car parks, road repairs and pavement lowering, so you can be certain that our dedicated team will be able to meet your specific requirements.
Quick and prompt. They used a drone to show me the damage to the roof caused by the wind.
Hi I’m John from NEW GEN roofing & landscaping been in the business for 12 years if you want a free quote just give me a call or text don’t hesitate thank you
Responsive, respectful, polite, prompt, hard working. Neat, tidy job. Satisfied customer.
PREMIUM BUILDING & LANDSCAPING Services With over a decade of experience we are the 1st choice when looking for a partner to advise and design your outdoor space into an extension of your living area. Patios & Paving, Hard landscaping, Decking & Fencing, Artificial Grass & Turf are just some of the projects we undertake. Everything you need in one place by a trusted name in the landscape gardening area Let’s sit down and talk about your vision
Absolutely delighted with the cost, customer service and finished job by Paul and the team. Would definitely recommend this company.
Hi there, we specialise in electrical, general building and Groundworks. However, we also provide the below services. We have over 15 years experience in the construction industry and we are also fully insured and licenced. House Building Extensions Electrical installation Furniture building Joining Carpentry Roofing Groundworks General wall filling and painting. Sockets and light fixings. Appliance installation Appliance hanging. Fitting shelves Fitting wall units Landscaping General Gardening Driveways Kitchen fitting Full home redec The above is not exclusive so please do not hesitate to contact us.
Very friendly company and despite setbacks and delays on the job due to weather the job was completed to a good standard. We are happy with the work done and will enjoy the extra space in the garden come summer.
Unity roofing..Our company has provided exceptionally high quality roofing and building services to its customers for many years .We also offer a 24 hour emergency call out service 365 days of the year and free estimate's and advice.
First class. Arrived punctually, replaced blocked down pipe and corner piece of gutter. Cleaned the inside and outside of entire gutter going the dxtra mile to clean the gutter abov the conservatory which no one else has managed to reach since being installed about 30 years ago. Reasonable price as well. Absolutely delighted with the result. Also followed up the work with a courtesy call to check all was well. I would recommend them to anyone
The smallest details can make a real impact when it comes to designing a space, but only a true professional knows how to bring these details together to create a seamless design. That’s where Complete Kitchens And Renovations comes in. With over 35 years experience and a team of skilled tradesmen you'll be in safe hands. ? We work throughout the South-East providing bespoke home renovations and extensions tailored to our clients’ needs. ? From a small kitchen installation to a full house renovation, no job is too big or small.
Very happy with result.
Small team of hardworking individuals dedicated to bringing the best to our clients.
Amazing service - attentive and always communicative in terms of doing the right thing. Great job!
Creative Building Services
Groundwork / Foundations
We are a local firm with over 50 years building experience, my son Gareth is a CICS Gold card Carpenter & my oldest son is a City & Guilds advance craft Bricklayer as am I. All of our staff are qualified in their respective trades. We build extensions, carry out house repair & maintenance work, patio and slabbing work, groundwork and excavations, General concreting work, drainage and much more. We fit new kitchens, stairs, doors and windows, all carpentry work undertaken. We have many passed clients who are happy for us to pass on their details as a reference for new clients to use.
Excellent communication and friendly team. On time, great work , on budget. No hesitation in recommending at all.
'%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