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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 I'm a Professional builder.I have experience of over 25 years.I do tiling,plastering,painting,decorating.I have lots of good qualities, I'm very punctual and I always try my best.I have lots of references.If you need any recommend numbers text me plz. Been in the business for a long time and now work with my beautiful wife . I am Also a Derbyshire council TRUSTED TRADER
A small but tricky plastering job that was quickly and expertly done. Everywhere left clean and tidy. Recommended.
We are a family business with over 20 years experience. Very high quality standard of work and attention to detail, always go that extra mile to help where we can, as you can see in our reviews. We only want one thing, to save you money. If you not happy you don't pay till you are.
Dovetail Building has been established for over 40 years and has a wealth of experience in all aspects of the building trade. From plumbing to joinery you can be assured of a first class service at a competitive price.
Quality workmanship carried out by ourselfs ( Kenny & Graeme). With over 20 years of experience each at all aspects of exterior & interior painting and building maintenance.
Vision Building Services redecorated three bedrooms in just 2 days with exceptional quality. Very tidy, punctual and professional throughout, regularly checking we were happy. Outstanding painting work and left everything spotless. Highly recommend for decorating work - will definitely use again!
"Asap roofing+building" we are professionals at what we know from plan to complete we have over 30 years of experience in roofing. All under one name ASAP roofing+ building the name says it all!
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Breathless Bathrooms are a Nottingham based business covering all of the East Midlands and specialising in all aspects of Bathrooms, Wetrooms and Disabled adaptations, all work is fully guaranteed. We pride ourselves on quality workmanship and reliability with customer satisfaction being of utmost importance! Now accepting all card payments
Final product a. Brilliant installation. Met everything we asked for
At John stewart joinery we pride ourselves on bringing high quality work at affordable prices
Rm property maintenance is a family run business with nearly 20 years experience behind us offering you a wide range of service at affordable prices specialist in all Upvc products and roofline products guttering repaired. And renewed
Answered the ad very quickly and did the job with no drama and at reasonable price. Will definitely use again.
sole trader operation with over 35 yrs continuous experience. trade indentured, city&guilds1st and time served.all aspects of brickwork with particular concentration to repointing, restoration,strengthening& surface cleaning.all lime& Portland mortar done
Great work when I had managed to agree the insurance claim. Apologies to John at JNM for the delays on our side. John was flexible, imaginative and open to suggestion on approach. Would rehire and highly recommend.
We are a family run business with experience in all aspects of Building, roofing & home improvements. working around Newport and the surrounding area's. We provide a fast and professional service at competitive rates. No job too small, call now for a free quotation, partner to ( shield roofing specialists south wales)
Family run business. Have been a bricklayer for 30 years and now my son has followed in my foot steps. I have always been proud of my work especially conservation. I have recently joined rated people because I have had enough of the site work and feel its time to slow down and offer my experience to private work. I have done private work in the past and always ensured works were completed on time,at a reasonable rate and took pride in my work. I am a registered company and can be found on company house. I can supply my registration number for any checks.
Excellent work. Highly recommend
We undertake all building work but specialise in joinery
At Bottega Interiors we deal with bathroom installations, bedrooms and kitchens. also handling anything from small leaks to full renovations. We pride our services with all aspects of works meaning you the customer won’t have the head ache of calling multiple trades people to complete one job. We take the stress out of your hands and handle the job all under one roof.
Very knowledgeable, professional, punctual, and left the place spotless. Will use again
Hi I'm Andy I'm 43 and first started out in 1996 did my apprentice with George wimpy builders and spent 20 years in Various trades I am a multi skilled tradesmen and pride myself in my work and value my customers as you are the key to success
Really humble and professionals. My garden fence completely collapsed due to storm and I couldn’t afford a new one so they managed to fix it.
Carpentry (Certified Fire Door Installer/competent person) Electrical and general builder
All plumbing undertaken with no call out charge. Full bathroom installations our specialty
At The Ruby Team we value great work and our word. Reliable, trustworthy and punctual tradesmen is what we are. With fantastic quality of work and enthusiasm we really get the job done to a 5* level. With 7 years in the field as a multi-tradesman I’ve accumulated a lot of knowledge in many sectors. No job is too small nor too big for us and we cover all areas in London and Essex. We follow a CLAYGO service which is a protocol we follow to ensure your house is as clean as when we entered it. #Residential. #Commercial. #Landscaping. Terms & Conditions. Any job cancelled by client with less than 48 hours notice will be subject to a flat £65 cancellation fee which is due when cancellation is confirmed. Payments are due on completion and once customer is satisfied with the quality of workmanship. If customer is not satisfied, it will be resolved with snagging or discount.
Excellent job done by Nas, came around as agreed and got the job done.
Abigail Construction are a local based firm of General Builders and Brickwork contractors. We have over 30 years experience and specialise in all aspects of brick/masonrywork internal and external house renovations and improvements.
Fair quote which didn't change. We had some family issues and Gavin was very accommodating with changes. Got job done quickly and looked great. Will definitely use again
We are a family run and owned Joinery based company of 20 years .All types of Joinery 1st & 2nd fix ,Doors ,flooring. Kitchens ,Commercial ,Shop fit out Media Walls , Wall Panelling ,Decking , Garden Rooms , Fencing, We also cater for new builds extensions and general building work A 5 Star Rated Company
Excellent service from Lee's team - quickly quoted for job - turned up as agreed and finished the job on time - I would highly recommend this company for anything you need to know about fire doors! Thankyou!
Hi Im Den your local tradesmen i can improve any aspect of the inside of your home from kitchens / bathrooms / carpentry I have 20 years experience and have undertaken all sots of projects
DDS development came the next day, understood the issue that needed addressing, and fixed it in a couple of hours for a reasonable price. Top marks all round - thanks Des!
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