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 homeowners, thousands of success stories
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.
Hi I'm Neil Kell Im a multi semi skilled handyman/builder I undertake all kinds of internal and external work on properties ex gas or major electrics I do small domestic electrical work and cover all work in the home Including small jobs ie putting flat pack furniture together fitting blinds curtains no matter how small as well as doing a loft Conversion. And every job has to be done to the highest standard within a sufficient time scale to first class finish as the finish of my work is my business card creating good word of mouth and good reviews.
Absolutely fabulous. Attention to detail. No job too small. So pleased that he is doing our whole house. Friendly, professional.
With over 20 years of interior fit out and design experience, the Kingsburgh team are more than able to bring your design from concept to finished installation, with minimal fuss and stress free as possible. Our knowledge and expertise in the KBB industry is second to none and along with our in house team of carpenters and designers, we have an extensive network of skilled tradesmen. who can take you from concept, design, build and deliver. We pride ourselves on our reputation as much as our work ethic, our clients satisfaction is paramount to us and as such we strive to leave all our clients 100% happy with their project big or small. We offer a full project management service, as well as supply and fit and a supply only service. At Kingsburgh every budget and taste is catered for with each project individually tailored to suit your needs. Our aim as a company is to leave you with a showroom standard project at a realistic price meaning you can have your dream room at a fraction of the cost without compromise. Get in touch with one of our team to arrange a free design consultation
Most tradespeople do what you ask and don’t offer comment or suggestion. Garry’s approach was different. He used a design-led and creative process to make sure every inch of space in my kitchen was crafted to meet my needs. His professionalism and workmanship is exceptional. He gave me a bespoke kitchen for the price of an off the peg one. He totally transformed the space available. My finished kitchen is stunning. I can’t recommend Kingsburgh Interiors highly enough. The Maserati of tradespeople!
Amazing builder. Went above and beyond to uphold customer service and maintained a high standard throughout. Above all he's a family man so is very conscientious when it comes to keeping the area safe. Would rate him 100%.
'%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}
we specialise in all aspects of roofing from complete roof re-fits to repair and maintenance. Make the 'right choice' and contact us today for a free no obligation quotation.
professional, trustworthy company clean and friendly, with over 18 years experience. We are a family run company with skills that have been passed on through generations. Every job is finished to an amazing standard at a very reasonable price.
Patrick was professional, friendly and thorough. Really pleased with the repairs and finish to my chimney that required attention. Wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to anyone, very trustworthy.
Hello and thank you for checking out my profile, I’m James, Director of Coulman Property Development and chief Joiner. I have been working in the trade for 15+ years, and have significant experience in Property Renovation and Development, focusing mainly on structural alterations. We have worked on small domestic projects (beam in, wall down stuff) all the way up to start from scratch bespoke new builds and most things in between. Our standards are exceptional, we won’t leave it unless it is right. We can advise on planning permission requirements, as well as the latest building regulations standards, and are more than happy to share this knowledge and experience with our valued customers. We look forward to the opportunity to discuss you next project with you, and hope we can bring your ideas to life. Thank you.
FRA Solution LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
With more than 15 years of experience in construction, interior renovations, and exterior improvements, our company is proud to have successfully completed over 1,200 projects. We began with small projects, but by consistently delivering high-quality standards, the scope and complexity of the work entrusted to us have grown significantly over the years. This is the first time we are using this platform, but the photos shown are part of our portfolio. Relying on our extensive experience and commitment to high-quality workmanship, we can provide the services you require. Once you have worked with us, we guarantee that you will want to continue our collaboration. Our business is built on quality, and we look forward to meeting you soon.
Here at C.Goldie.Building we work with your customers to achieve a hight standard of work. With over 20 years experience we have built a quality reputation with a lot of very satisfied customers. We do everything in house so to speak with, builders trained to NVQ level 3, gas safe certified plumbers, part p qualified electricians, joiners NVQ level 3 qualified, heath and safety trained executives and first aid trained personnel.
Definitely recommend - reliable and trustworthy and great value for money Chris over saw everything and ensured high standards were kept etc - thanks so much for opening up our kitchen / diner
we are specialised company with 16years experiance in all aspects of decorating and building work. All work carried out to a High standard finish. We offer : interior and exterior painting, bathrooms and kitchen fittings, all flooring, fencing, tiling and many more
Fast, clean, efficient and well priced, I wouldn't hesitate to use these guys again for any project around the house.
excellent service - highly recommended
GUS BUILDING GROUP LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
Our construction business is specialised in Full Refurbishments, Bathroom Renovations, Kitchen Remodeling and Home Extensions. We value every client by achieving quality finishes, start to end at competitive prices. Services we offer: - Bathroom Renovation - Kitchen Renovation - Home Extension - Garage Conversion - Roofing - Tiling - Carpentry - Plumbing - Electrics - Flooring - Painting and Decorating And more…
Small builder/bricklayer
We have been trading for 18 years and specialize in painting, decorating, building work, full-scale refurbishment, bespoke wardrobes, kitchen installations, and high-end bathroom refurbishments.
fantastic work from very nice professional team - will employ again
Hello, we're an experienced company in building jobs for more than 10 years. Our primary trades are: 1. Gound workering jobs (Paving, slabs and all garden design) 2. Plastering 3. Fencing 4. Interior painting 5. Electrician 6. Extention etc.
Had patio slabs layed. Happy with the job. It is well done, quick and efficient service.
Apex Builders UK
Groundwork / Foundations
Comprehensive Building Expertise: Your Ultimate Solution for Dry Lining, Painting and decorating, Carpentry, Groundwork, and much more Are you searching for a building professional with a diverse skill set to bring your construction projects to life? Look no further! We offer a comprehensive range of services, backed by years of experience, to transform your vision into reality. Description: With a proven track record in a wide spectrum of construction disciplines, we are your go-to experts for all your building needs. Our skilled team specializes in an array of services, including dry lining, ceiling fixing, extensions, carpentry and joinery, groundwork, patio and driveway installation, as well as painting, decorating, and handyman services. We take pride in delivering results that not only meet but exceed expectations. Services: Handyman Services: No task is too small. Our handyman services encompass a range of minor repairs, maintenance, and improvements, providing a one-stop solution for your property needs. Dry Lining and Ceiling Fixing: Transform your interior spaces with flawless dry lining and precise ceiling fixing. Our meticulous approach ensures perfectly smooth walls and ceilings that form the foundation of an exceptional interior. Extensions: Whether you're expanding your residential or commercial space, we have the expertise to seamlessly integrate new structures, ensuring a harmonious flow between old and new. Carpentry and Joinery: From custom woodworking projects to intricate joinery, our carpenters possess the skills to create functional and aesthetic elements that enhance your space's character. Groundwork: Our thorough groundwork services lay the foundation for successful construction. From excavation to drainage and landscaping, we ensure a solid start for your project. Patio and Driveway: Enhance your outdoor living with professionally installed patios and driveways. We combine design flair with durable materials to create stunning and functional outdoor spaces. Painting and Decorating: Our skilled painters bring color and vibrancy to your spaces, utilizing their expertise to deliver impeccable finishes that elevate your interiors and exteriors.
DIAMOND PROPERTY’S LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
We are a professional and reliable Ltd company with over 15 years of combined experience in the construction industry. Our friendly and dedicated team takes pride in delivering high-quality workmanship, excellent customer service, and dependable results on every project. From small residential jobs to larger construction projects, we work closely with our clients to ensure every job is completed to the highest standards, on time, and within budget. We are committed to building strong relationships through honesty, professionalism, and attention to detail.
with over 20 years experience in quality bathroom and kitchen installations we offer a comprehensive service from start to finish. we focus on quality, honesty and reliability. 100% satisfaction guaranteed. we are highly skilled, qualified and insured.
Superb professionalism from initial meeting to completion of the job.
SGH Construction & Groundwork
Groundwork / Foundations
SGH Construction & Groundwork have been established since 2016 we are a family run business that has been operating via customer recommendations. We pride ourselves on safely delivering the highest quality work for our clients. All of our staff are fully qualified for the job in hand. Please feel free to give us a try.
We are general builders and groundwork contractors going the extra mile ,we have many satisfied customers more info can be supplied on request , check out my website all work has been completed by.uS. To a very high standard
MWE Builders removed our old garage, re built a new larger block construction garage, and we are very pleased with all of the work completed. Throughout the build we were kept informed of every stage, Matt was on site every day, even through some horrible wet weather. I would highly recommend MWE Builders, for price, quality, and friendliness. Thank you Matt, we appreciate all of the work you have done. Many Thanks Will and Wendy Kingswood Bristol
I am mature & experienced in many aspects of home improvements. Over 30 yrs plastering, carpentry, fitting kitchens, bathrooms & much more. From start to finish I am hard working, reliable, tidy & can adapt to different environments. Please see my ratings.
Couldn't pick a better tradesman to carry out any work we asked for. They did a brilliant job on two rooms for me, very respectful, efficient & hard working. Thank you so much. Colin
'%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