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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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Hi, At Tw Installations we offer a service of high quality work, to give you the customer piece of mind . We are friendly so please don't be worried to ask questions if you have any queries, we are reliable and trust worthy. Thank you Tom
We are a local Maintenance and building company based in the heart of Stoke on Trent which carries out projects over Staffordshire and Cheshire at a very competitive price for a very high quality job. We pride our selves on customer satisfaction and reliability. Our trades men are all time served and have a vast wealth of experience and expertise.
A first class job.
My company's purpose is to deliver excellent residental and commercial painting and decorating services in Glasgow and surroundings carried out in a professional and friendly manner. I'm new to this portal hence no ratings at the moment but may provide reference on request.
Tomek did a fantastic job taking off old wallpaper on my ceiling. He was very professional, friendly, thorough and clean. It’s very hard to find a handyman like Tomek these days. I would highly recommend!
Takle Building Ltd is a friendly and reliable building company with over 32 years of experience. We cover a wide range of building work from small repairs to new builds. We also cover all aspects of painting and decorating interior and exterior.
Paul and his team were very professional in their approach and work. They listened to what we needed, and even with the extra unexpected work we asked of them still finished on time. I would highly recommend them to anyone and will certainly be using them for any addition work that I need.
We offer high quality building work all jobs ar fully insurance electric and plumbing coming with certificate jobs available for have look to understand how we work we always leave customers happy
Victor and his team did a great job with fitting the electrics in the kitchen and plasterboarding the kitchen. They left the place clean and was reasonable with the price. I will certainly use them again.
Best Home Builders Ltd is a limited company with a professional and experienced team. With more than 14 years experience, we deliver excellent, high quality services like loft conversions, bathroom/kitchen planning and fitting, painting & decorating, plastering, rendering, tiling, dry lining & a lot more. We also collaborate with a plumber, a certified electrician and gas engineer, who can provide all necessary certificates.
Big John very helpful fellow.
McCombie Construction is all about flexibility, innovation and above all, results. Whether it's a dream house or a new bathroom, McCombie Construction has the skill and expertise to exceed your expectations. We are fully insured for your piece of mind.
Did exactly what they said they would do at the time they said they would do it. Two very pleasant young men who did a good job, at a very good price. Would recommend the company and would certainly use them again. Many thanks Ruth
Welcome to KM Roofing- Your Plymouth Roofing Experts KM Roofing - Your Reliable Partner for High-Quality Roofing Services. At KM Roofing , we are proud to be the leading roofing professionals in the Plymouth area. With our extensive experience and unwavering dedication to excellence, we are committed to delivering high-quality roofing services to both homeowners and businesses. If you require roof repair, replacement, or a new installation, the J&P Roofing Solutions team of skilled and certified roofing experts is ready to cater to your residential roofing needs. We recognise the significance of a secure and long-lasting roof for your home, and we guarantee that each project is executed with the utmost standards of craftsmanship. Business proprietors in Plymouth rely on us for their commercial roofing needs. Whether it's flat roofs or pitched roofs, we possess the expertise to address a diverse array of commercial roofing requirements. Our objective is to safeguard the durability and dependability of your commercial property's roof, preserving your investments and assets. Emergency Roof Repairs: Unexpected roof damage can occur at any time. That's why we provide fast and dependable emergency roof repair services. Our team is on call 24/7 to tackle urgent roofing issues, delivering swift and efficient solutions to safeguard your property. Why Choose KM Roofing Ltd Expertise in Plymouth : As a roofing company based in Plymouth , we have a deep understanding of the distinct challenges presented by the local climate and building regulations. Our specialised knowledge is customised to address the specific requirements of the Plymouth community. High-Quality Materials: Our materials are carefully sourced from reliable suppliers to guarantee that your roof is constructed to endure the elements and endure the test of time. Ensuring Customer Satisfaction: Our dedication to ensuring customer satisfaction is steadfast. We maintain transparent communication, deliver precise estimates, and endeavour to surpass your expectations for each project. Fully licensed and insured: Your peace of mind is our priority. We are fully licensed and insured, providing you with assurance in the quality and dependability of our roofing services. Contact Us Today Whether you're facing a roofing emergency or embarking on a roof improvement project,
Please view our Website Trowelup.co.uk LABC partner
Responded promptly to my job request and completed the work satisfactoeily.
It's family business and we are happy to help people on any projects
Vinnie and his team did an excellent job of our external render, they were prompt, hard working and very tidy. I would unequivocally recommend their services.
Carpentry / Construction & Building Company Specialising in small to large scale projects. Specialised in Carpentry, Kitchens & Bathrooms
Avenue Roofing is a family company established in 2009 by Mr Paul Nock. I am qualified NVQ level 2 in roofing and construction and I have 30 years experience in all aspects of roofing.Numerous references available from private customers/landlords. I should have 20-25 ratings on here but not everyone leaves a review!
A person from the company came to the house, looked at the job, promised an estimate. Haven't heardanything since.
TS Construction
Groundwork / Foundations
Over 20 years of experience, we deliver high-quality construction and property services with a hands-on, methodical approach. From new builds to small renovations, we ensure every detail meets the highest standards. Clear on communication and a commitment to excellence for a project to be delivered with no surprises. We specialise in full build projects, contracting all services and commit to those high standards for even the smallest of projects. Groundworks Brickwork Drainage Extensions New builds Loft conversions Carpentry Landscaping Patios Driveways Fencing Enquire today!
Hi :) I have a range of experience across the trade, with specialised expertise in the following areas,over 12 years: -in Drylining -in Carpentry - in refurbishing restaurants and houses. -Loft Conversions -House extensions After all that, I finally have the team, which we can do jobs from A to Z - Plumbing (gas safe certified) - Electrical (Certified) -Roofs -Loft Conversions -Extensions -Groundwork -Gardening -Fencing -Waste removal I'm happy to help across all jobs and answer any questions. Thanks for passing by, and I hope to hear from you soon :)
Job done to very good quality but job did run over due to the Christmas period overall very happy
Tani Dauti Building Services
Groundwork / Foundations
I have over 25 years experience in the building service.
Gary O'Connor
Groundwork / Foundations
DJ Construction Family run business with over 40 years experience. -Groundworks -Construction -Plastering -Carpentry -Roofing
Dh Property Services is a newly registered company who are happy to quote for any size job. 15 years in a manufacturing and installations ranging from flat pack furniture to complete kitchen/bathroom installs. commercial, domestic and landlord services
Great service from Dave, excellent job painting my summerhouse. I can recommend highly.
Stewart my work partner and myself Adam, combined have over 60 years experience in the building industry. We run a small friendly team of committed guys that have everyone in mind when it comes to health and safety and maintaining a clean and tidy work site with minimal disruption while works commence. Our primarily trades are carpentry/joinery, bricklaying, plumbing, plastering and landscaping. however Stewart and i alone have served lengthy apprenticeships with our fathers and right from the off have turned our hands to all aspects of the building trade. Most importantly we value our customers criteria and strive to go the extra mile in both keeping to strict rota and maintain the job is not only completed within the time frame but to a high standard. We honour our good reputation of being punctual and polite and most importantly easily approachable combined making it an easy working atmosphere which we feel is vitally important. We the team at Artisan's construction look forward to meeting new people and taking on new challenges, The dexterity of work we have undertaken is so varied but generally based around the property development aspect for example... extensions, loft conversions, renovations, layout alterations, roofing, ceramic tiling, landscaping and so much more. We have had years of dealings with building control planning and developing and a good able knowledge of using architectural drawings and structural engineers reports. Where and when appropriately we have an electrician and plumber on the team that can competently carry out works and sign off respectively. We as a team look forward to being of service and making you proud you've come on board and will strive to achieve this work based relationship. Thanks for taking the time to browse our page and take care, kind regards from all the team at Artisans.
Thanks for the hardwork
I have had my own company for 32 years, we are a team of six. We are an honest team and work together. We are a family run business. We specialise in fitting kitchens bathrooms and extensions.
Marcel worked efficiently to deliver a high quality finish to our bathroom renovation. He communicated what he was doing at each stage of the renovation and was helpful in sourcing the materials. He worked long hours and always cleared up after himself. Marcel is friendly, honest and hardworking. The quote was very reasonable in comparison to other quotes we received, our first quote was honoured despite the job being more complex than initially anticipated. We will be using Marcel again for other jobs.
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