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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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time served carpenter/joiner with over 28 years experiance.cscs acreditation/kitchens/bedroom furniture/bespoke items catered for.
Eddie made a wardrobe and put some shelves in an existing cupboard. Really pleased and would highly reccomend, 5 stars
***All roofing work undertaken, no job too big or small*** All London and surrounding areas. All roofing work, leadwork, fascias, guttering, repairs and velux windows. Flat roofs and new roofs. Contact me for a quotation.
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Over 30 years trade experience
Great work, came when he said he would and did a great job. thoroughly recommend.
Hi my name is Craig Nicol, I have been a builder for over 30 years working on sites, offices, shops, hospitals, schools, private homes and also worked for councils. I am a hard worker and take pride in an excellent job finish.
Excellent work. Had no problems very satisfied with work, exactly what I wanted. Very helpful in making right choice. Helping with kitchen next.
Product Plumbing&Heating
Groundwork / Foundations
Bob Construction Ltd was established in 2007 and has gone to a limited company in 2016. We provide Bristol's home-owners and landlords with professional and affordable property maintenance services in Bristol and surrounding areas.
Very happy with work. Arrived promptly and were very happy to take on additional small tasks as requested on the day. Would definitely recommend for further work.
Dear Customers IE-DESIGN with years of experience offers interior and exterior work such as painting and decorating.We also undertake and manage landscaping and gardening services of any kind. Additionally our experience leads to the unique 3D projects if required. We can promise a competitive price and perfect finish as Customer satisfaction is at the heart of everything we do.
Fabric Construction LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
Welcome to Fabric Construction Ltd, With over 2 decades of experience in the construction sector we are your first choice for all your construction needs. We undertake full extensions, maintenance and all minor works. We specialise in period properties, under taking all specialist works involved with these types of properties. We carry out works involving: Lime works Cast iron Roofing Carpentry and specialist oak repairs All general building works and project management
Here at TJ Hughes landscaping and property maintenance we specialise in transforming your dream garden and house into reality With our new technology we can show you visuals of what your garden can look like right before it’s even been started.. We cover a huge area from Norfolk to London and everywhere in between We provide quality landscaping, from fresh lawns, fencing, decking and patios to full garden redesigns. TJ Hughes are highly dedicated to the landscaping trade, all members here at TJ Hughes ensure that our workmanship is to the highest of qualities. We have also ventured out as a team to property development, things like painting and repairs plastering and brick work Why choose us when there’s many companies out there? Well here at TJ Hughes we are a team built from highly experienced and skilled tradesmen that are trained to work safely and confidently within any work environment. Attention to detail and to have pride within the work throughout ensuring its completed on time to your exceptions and budget. Services TJ Hughes can guarantee : Friendly service Fully insured work Experienced and fully trained team Personal landscape designs Before and aftercare advice Free estimate Fast response Top quality Clean and tidy Don't stop and hesitate, give us an email or ring to book a date for your free estimate
We are a family run business, specialising in all type of Groundworks, Driveways, Drainage problems, Fencing, Paths, Patios, Garden/Retaining Walls, Soakaways and Cesspools, Foundations and Oversites, Underpinning, Vehicle cross overs, Mobility Ramps,
Lee and the team did an amazing job, always kept us informed of progress. The team on site were fantastic. Definitely would recommend!
Kassel LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
Introducing Kassel Ltd to Cambridgeshire, bringing over 25 years experience from across Europe for all of your home services including; home cleaning, maintenance, repairs, improvements, removals and more!
i have 35 years ,working in construction industry, multi trader plumbing wood work fenching all maintenance Work now because work alone now am reliable and do a very good quality of workmanship we cover most trades in construction industry very competitive rates, welder insulation, richard
Here at Tenfold Renovation, we aim to forge close, trusting relationships with all of our clients. Allowing us to bring creativity and craftsmanship together to deliver the best possible results in the industry. Whether you have a property you want to build or just want to renovate your current property into your dream home, we can help turn your vision into reality.
Vitaliy & his team are excellent. They were very punctual starting at 7.45 every day & working full solid days, even at weekends. They never missed a day. Vitaliy kept me daily updated regarding the process & was present on the job each day. The quote was detailed & competitive & final cost close to the original. The work was completed to a very high standard. It was a complex job but Vitaliy made the process less stressful. I was kept updated asked my opinion even on the smallest things.
Fully insured up to £5m AND QUALIFIED, I can provide a full range of professional landscaping and garden maintenance services, delivering high-standard, reliable and detail-driven workmanship on every project. Whether it’s regular garden care or a complete transformation, I take pride in creating clean, From hedge cutting, lawn care and planting to patios, pathways, turfing and full redesigns, every job is completed with care and precision. I work closely with each customer to understand their vision, ensuring the final result is beautifully presented, long-lasting and finished to the highest quality.
Ethan and his team did a brilliant job, couldn’t recommend more. Two lads trying to hold a proper business - good on them. Polite, friendly and stayed (in the dark!) until they finished the job. After lots of time wasters, these guys were spot on, Thanks chaps.
We are specialised in Kitchen, bathrooms and all type of furniture instalation. We are team of handyman, plumer, electrician and carpenter.
Excellent Kitchen Tiling! Peter did an amazing job! Professional, friendly, and efficient, he completed the work quickly. The pricing was fair, and he kept everything clean throughout. Highly recommend for quality tiling!
We do all aspects of bathrooms and minor building works, we take pride in our work and enjoy leaving the customers with a smile on their faces.
Our build prerequisites were to divide a room & close an open archway, build two extra walls, move steps and a handrail, put in two entrances with doors for the new build and paint & carpet this area. Matthew (MDCC Construction) was qualified and very helpful – giving us good advice. He is an honest, tidy and thorough builder, willing to accommodate the building manager's questions and happy to make amendments. We were thrilled with the speed and finish of this build, and we will definitely use them again.
we are contractors in the roofing trade with a combined experience of over 100 years combined trained in many single ply flat roof systems firestone epdm factra pvc trocol protan john Manville epdm also slate and tile pitched roofing on
a wonderful family run company very friendly and went the extra mile for us windows are great and everything left clean and tidy. would definitely recommend to anyone.
Been working as a joiner for 14 years. Happy to say I can put my hand to most types of joinery from building house or extensions, to fitting kitchens and finishings.
I had a tight schedule for my job to be completed in, and Ryan got it done to a fantastic standard, and made me feel like a valued client at all times. Highly recommended, thank you!
Bespoke joinery, lodges, refurbs. Any thing considered from laminate floors to lodges, cabins, to hanging doors.. https://1drv.ms/f/s!AhwQweL83_dBoSoOnp3oSkN3wZRC
A top job. I would not hesitate to recommend Mark. He is a very decent, friendly person. His work is absolutely excellent. No mess left behind. Thank you very much
We are friendly, family run business with over 35 years experience in property builds, conversions, renovations and general maintenance. We can cater to all your needs from the top of the roof to the bottom of the garden, and everything in between. We pride ourselves on working closely with our customers to give them exactly what they want to the standard they expect from a professional team. We are always happy to offer constructive advice and suggestions, and use the best materials we can to suit any budget. All our work is fully insured. Here at EGH we believe in doing a job right first time and with the best quality materials to suit your budget. We work alongside Ideal4Finance to help our customers finance their projects making it easier to fulfill their wants and needs.
lovely man did wonderful job laying the laminate in my kitchen no fuss just got on with it and did great job would definitely recommend this company and would use again if needed
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