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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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Responded promptly to my job request and completed the work satisfactoeily.
New Space Renovations Yorkshire Ltd
Groundwork / Foundations
Here at NSR we pride ourselves in quality workmanship but ultimately it really is about you. More than that, our work is about delivering a project that not only reflects your brief and budget, but will inspire and impress all those that see it. With more than 15 years of experience we offer the the highet quality decorating, renovation and refurbishment services to domestic and commercial properties throughout Whether you’re looking for a loft conversion, house extension, new kitchen redesign or if you are looking to develop a block of flats, we’ve got the kind of experience that makes all the difference to you.
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We are a company which provides a full range of quality building services including planning and designing. Home improvement and constuction projects. we do variety of home improvement and construction projects.
Girts and his work mate did an excellent job enlarging my small patio. They were both very professional cleaned up after themselves left my garden neat and tidy. I would use them again
M&M CONSTRUCTION (LONDON) LTD are an professional construction and refurbishment company with 25 years of experience in construction industry . We are building contractor specialising in solutions for your home restoration, kitchen and bathroom refurbishment, extensions, loft conversion and internal remodeling. We are working around North West and Central London. We have 25 years of experience on London's construction industry. We offer professional services: Bathrooms from A to Z Kitchens from A to Z Plumbing work Electrical work Painting and decorating Wallpaper Carpentry work Tiling Cleaning service Construction work Loft roofs of any kind Wood floors Extensions Fencing & Gates Paving & Slabs Book an appointment at a time to suit you and we will look at your refurbishment requirement and provide a free no obligation quotation
Water Trade and Build Trade Services have been established for over 17 years. We are ready to assist with your Building, maintenance or plumbing projects. We are fully insured and directly employ our team of skilled tradesmen.
Once the initial contact was firmly established with "the office" everything went smoothly, efficiently and with professionalism.
TYBIM is a well-established company which has built up a first-class reputation in the construction and property maintenance sector by successfully delivering high-quality services and projects. Our core values are quality and efficiency.
(The work turned out to be considerably larger than originally thought). Everything about this company was excellent. There were no extra charged. I would recommend these people based on our experience with them.
We are Business owners Chris and Liam. Chris has been in the industry 26 years and has a multitude of experience, a time served joiner by trade but can turn his hand to anything. NVQ level 6 Qualified with IOSH, SMSTS, Asbestos Awareness amongst others. Liam has been in the industry for 14 years and is a qualified electrician by trade and can turn his hand to anything. Liam has a multitude of experience and also has various plant licences such as Digger, telehandler. We undertake all works and give a 12 month warranty.
Very pleased with the work that CJS did. Worked very hard for 3 days solid and solved a few issues on day one with no fuss. Very professional and nice guys. Would recommend anyone to hire these guys.
Hi. We are family based business which is in this trade for many years we are experienced and skilled workers we used to work for big development companies but we decided to work on our own . Please let us start and finish your home improvements. Thank you for reading
Good work, decent price, I do recommend them, for sure I am going to call them in the future
Semi-Retired Builder experienced in all aspects of Building Works and Repairs.
Helpful friendly and reliable. Used many times. Great service.
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.
South Fleet Solutions
Groundwork / Foundations
When it comes to property building works you need a name you can trust. Based in Colchester area, with over 30 years experience. Some of the projects we have successfully carried include: - New Builds - Renovations - Extensions - Garden designs - Patios - Block paving - Tarmac - Fencing. Our experienced team of specialists pay great attention to detail, finishing all projects to the highest of standards. We are fully insured and all our work is guaranteed. For a free quote simply get in touch with our professional team today.
Mill House LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
Honesty, good workmanship , 40 years as a contractor, helpful, nothing is too big or too small, no over pricing, London based. Knowledge of all property aspects, including laws and management, politeness and total respect to our clients, and their properties You will not be disappointed
Here at JBL PROPERTY MAINTENANCE AND RENOVATION LTD/ We offer a range of services from interior to exterior of your property. It's a new company established 2023 but all out tradesmen and women have numerous years of experience and have to complete a test of jobs to see if they are competent and reliable before we hire any persons. We have a high standards for any work carried out by our company and give warrenty on all our work. We also value our customers and their loyalty with a membership scheme which gives you 10% on all work carried out. Builder Brick and block work Render/ plaster Flooring/ all types of flooring Painting and decorating Window and door installation Kitchen installation Bathroom installation Extentions and out houses or offices Fencing Driveway and patio Turf and artificial grass Landscaping Roofing Guttering/facia/soffit Garage conversion Loft conversion Inside and out side complete renovation
John did do a good job when he decided to turn up. However, he was not reliable and would always ask for money upfront..Also , he never came back to finish the job, even though he was paid to.
Freedom Joinery
Groundwork / Foundations
Fully qualified carpenter, with advanced craft skills, company has been since 2022 We have all relevant trades we use form the small things to bigger, we’ve got you covered, there are over forty 5 star review on another site and we’ve decided to give this site a chance, we pride ourself in our work, communication and and overall professionalism.
Rynik undertake domestic, commercial and industrial projects. As a trustworthy, hardworking, dynamic team we strive to supply the highest quality workmanship to our private residential clients as well as our larger company associates throughout the UK.
Excellent workmanship, punctual, fab price. Reliable. All you could ask for really in a tradesman. Thank you
PAWEL SERVICES LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
Hi my name is Pawel, Our Services Include: - Kitchen installation (Complete including tilling, flooring, electric & plumbing) - Laminate Floors laid - Floor and wall tiling & carpentry - Painting & Decorating (Interior & Exterior) - Complete Bathroom - Plastering & Rendering - Gas Safe Register - Fitted wardrobes & central heating - Assembling flat pack furniture - Plumbing work - Brickwork - Partition walls
WBH PROJECTS LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
WBH Projects Ltd are a general building company that undertakes all construction projects and aim to provide high quality services and cost effectiveness.
JH Roofing & Building
Groundwork / Foundations
JH roofing is a family run business with Taylor tradesmen to meet your needs we do a way of conservatory changeovers we also damp proofing and all aspects of property maintenance for a free no obligation quote dont hesitate to get in touch. Thank you for looking.
We deal with insurance claims handling, reinstatement and repairs to any type of reinstatement including damage caused by escape of water, flood and fire damaged properties. We also completed works involving: Non-evasive leak detection. Insurance surveying / Schedules. Damp mapping and drying. Refurbishment and repairs to residential commercial buildings. Replacement kitchens and bathrooms. Plumbing. Plastering. Roofing. Painting and decorating. Asbestos surveys and removal. Carpentry. We are also a member of the The British Damage Management Association (BDMA)
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