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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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Pegasus Property is a local based business that specialises as being a General Builder focusing on Kitchen & Bathroom supply and fitting but also general maintenance for both residential and commercial clients through to an Audio Visual Integrator installing PA systems, Digital Signage, CCTV and Access Control. With almost 20years experience of offering solutions to meet a clients budget but exceed their expectations we hope to work with you in the near future.
Premtex services Include: Brick Pointing Stone Re Pointing Roof repairs Painting and decorating specialists. We are a local family company with over 40 years combined experience ,
Very friendly and professional! Will use again if I need more work doing.
Trading as intrendbuilders and tesscon co uk search us on google We are a friendly, hard working & affordable company who specialise in All forms of roofing and general building, maintenance, fencing and landscaping, waste removal, end of tenancy property clearances, wooden & laminate flooring and more in all areas of Birmingham & surrounding areas.
kindly send me your contact details for more info about the contract oppurtunity
Oak Landscaping
Groundwork / Foundations
Oak Landscaping & Property Maintenance provides reliable, professional landscaping and property maintenance services for homes and businesses. From garden makeovers, fencing and patios to repairs, exterior maintenance and general upkeep, we offer a complete service with quality workmanship and attention to detail. Whether it’s a one-off project or ongoing maintenance, we’re here to keep your outdoor space and property looking its best.
Here at N e construction we do a range of work from big to small , building to landscape work , general maintenance , painting an a general tidy up,
Great guys
We are electrical contractors based in Sussex undertaking all aspects of electrical installations in the domestic, commercial and industrial sectors. Family run business, keen eye for detail, all works fully insured and certified.
Great communication before, during and after the work was completed. Competitive pricing for the standard EICR and the report was sent promptly. Will certainly use Chris again for any electrical work in the future
Hello,I am Vasile! If u need any type of building work to be done please feel free to contact me and u will have Free quotes and good advice! Thanks and see u on the job!
Vasile and his team are working to a very high standard on tenant rental bathroom, made several recommendations on how to improve plumbing, fitted 15mm copper piping and large number of other improvements including carpentry and electrical wiring to best working guidelines, good job and a fair price, thank you
At P.E.P Construction ltd, we offer a wide verity of service in the construction sector, from anything as small as you can think to as big as you want and as high end From groundwork’s to Extention all the way to new builds look no further, we have a team of trades all under one roof l, with a professional and friendly service start to finish look no further
We are reliable and professional tradesman who specialise in all types of property improvements, we aim to achieve great customer satisfaction, with a high standard of workmanship.
David did an outstanding job, great attention to detail takes pride in his work, highly recommend
Glanfields
Groundwork / Foundations
We are a family run business and have over 35 years experience in all things glazing. We cover the whole of Kent and South East London. We cover anything from replacing a sealed unit, to a full replacement conservatory. We also cover fascia, soffits and guttering and also supply and install secondary glazing. We provide a friendly, professional service with no hard sales techniques like the big companies use.
Transform Your Property – From Foundations to Finishing Touches Looking for reliable professionals to upgrade your home or garden? We are your local, all-in-one landscaping and groundworks experts, delivering high-quality workmanship that lasts. Based out of Gloucester, we proudly serve residential and commercial clients across Gloucestershire and the surrounding regions. Whether you want to boost your property’s kerb appeal, create a stunning outdoor living space, or start a major home expansion, we handle the job from the ground up. We pride ourselves on clear communication, punctuality, and a tidy workspace. No cutting corners, no hidden fees—just premium results backed by skilled craftsmanship. Our Core Services: Driveways: Stunning block paving, resin, or gravel solutions built to withstand heavy use. Patios: Beautiful, durable stone and porcelain patios perfect for outdoor dining and entertaining. Garden Renovations: Complete transformations, including turfing, artificial grass, and levelling. Fencing: Secure, stylish, and durable closeboard, panel, and decorative fencing installations. Brickwork & Retaining Walls: Structural walling, garden walls, and decorative brick features. Extensions & Groundworks: Foundations, drainage, and structural prep work for home extensions. And More: Complete site clearances, paths, and bespoke outdoor projects. Areas We Cover: We travel to projects within a 1-hour radius of our base, regularly working in: Gloucester & Cheltenham Stroud, Tewkesbury & Cirencester Worcester & Hereford North Bristol & South Gloucestershire Swindon & The Cotswolds Why Choose Us? Fully Insured & Qualified: Complete peace of mind for your home and property. End-to-End Service: From initial excavation and groundworks to the final finishing brick. Free, No-Obligation Quotes: Transparent pricing with a detailed breakdown of costs. Reliable & Local: A friendly, professional team dedicated to absolute customer satisfaction. No job is too big or too small. We work closely with you to bring your vision to life, on time and on budget.
Tom did an excellent job on the driveway including replacing the water pipe to the house which was not in the original spec but was required. Always kept me informed of what was being done and the timescale.
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A family run business based in Taunton, we pride ourselves on attention to detail yet provide a competitive, reliable & professional building service to our clients. We cover all aspects from minor home improvements to renovations and extensions.
Job very well done by Ben Adams! Very pleased with the final result! Would definitely recommend Ben’s services!
Neil Chamberlain Property Services
Groundwork / Foundations
Neil Chamberlain Neil has over 30 years of experience in the construction industry, where he has gained a comprehensive level of knowledge and a thorough and in-depth understanding of most trades and skills. Neil commenced his career in construction as a sub-contractor building loft conversions, primarily in West London, and was awarded by The Federation of Master Builders for an exceptional conversion in Wimbledon. Neils recognised high standard of work has secured many diverse construction projects, including the substantial renovation of Period Houses, including listed buildings, single and double storey extensions, detached new build projects, an award winning Chelsea landscaping and garden design, as well as commercial buildings. Neil has worked as part of a team, as a main contractor and has also project managed all elements required in completing building projects large and small successfully. Property Service, (NPS) is a family owned and run business, bringing an extensive level of ability to benefit our clients projects. Whether you require property maintenance or are planning something more substantial our team will assess your requirements and put in place a tailored package for you, from an appropriately detailed quotation on smaller projects, to an all encompassing design and build service, including - planning, building control and a detailed costed schedule of works, we have the experience and background to meet your requirements.
Vamax LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
VAMAX LTD is a building company based in Bournemouth,we offer building services to commercial and residential customers.From small repairs to full scale projects. The services we provide include -New Build -Extentions -Garden walls -Garage conversions - Repointig -Landscaping and renovation works -RSJ installation
we are a small building company with over 30 years experience . our work covers extensions , loft and garage and cellar conversions plumbing and heating and u.p.v.c products.
Commissioned C and J developments. To build an attached garage. At the start of the project we talked through any issues as they arose and agreed how they would be rectified. However as build progresssed the quality of work deteriorated Brickwork bowed in side and rear walls. Joists for garage roof cut at different lengths and not cut to match the angle of the wall one joist packed out with old pieces of wood. Walls either side of rear door not aligned. Stopped work due to poor standard of workmanship
We are a family-run business established in 2018, with over 8 years of experience in the trade. Based in Blackburn, we provide a wide range of property and outdoor services for both residential and commercial customers. Our team is fully qualified in both gardening and landscaping as well as roofing, allowing us to offer a complete service across multiple trades. We cover all aspects of gardening and landscaping, roofing, tree work, patios, fencing, outdoor painting, jet washing, turf installation, rendering, and brickwork including wall building, repairs, repointing, and rebuilding. We take on all types of work, from smaller jobs and garden improvements to larger outdoor projects and ongoing maintenance.
NOT A QUALIFIED BUILDER! Promised to complete all work in 4 days. Arrived after 11am each day. Insisted on full payment or wouldn't complete work, so I paid in full. Pergola not installed. Waited another week, I asked to be refunded for unfinished work; he refused, I Kept his tools until refunded. He threatened to destroy my garden. I returned tools but no refund given. Poor-quality work. Didn't use whacker to level ground; it was very uneven. Had to remove grass to have it relayed correctly.
S&B FLAT-ROOFING & FIBREGLASS SPECIALISTS
Groundwork / Foundations
S&B Fiberglass roofing & Carpentry, property improvement specialists with over 15yrs experience of working in the industry.
Grigo Build is a specialist building, extension and refurbishment company with over 13 years experience, working on projects of all sizes from initial consultation through to full project delivery. Working closely with our clients we are able to provide a fast, friendly and reliable service with a high quality finish at very competitive prices with an insurance backed guarantee. Based in Hendon NW London, we cover all areas in and around the M25. Our experienced team provides full construction, plumbing and electrical services and pride ourselves on client satisfaction. Please call to discuss your requirement - big or small!
Amazing builder! Super reliable, I’m happy with them all the way through. High quality standard, and super fast work. Whatever you want, they will listen and make it with no fuss. Recommend to anyone who needs to renovate a bathroom or do any tiling job. Can’t wait to have you guys here again to do more renovation. Thank you!!
A young vibrant and energetic business, quality and design at the forefront of our values. From light switch to new build we embark on all manner of projects from traditional stone listed buildings right up to the most modern you can imagine.
Very satisfied with work,would highly recommend
I started my company IJM in 1987, and with over 40 years of experience covering every aspect of the build industry, we can provide you with a complete service tailored to your exact requirements, from repairing a damaged fence to building new houses.
Ian and his team did a really fantastic job with our loft conversion. We now have an extra bedroom, study and bathroom. They are professional, knowledgeable and efficient. I’d absolutely recommend Ian to anyone, and we will be looking to use him again for other projects in the future.
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