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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 this is Mo from Britefinish, handyman with over 10 years experience. The wide range services offered with honesty reliability punctuality and professionalism. Handyman Services offered : All Flat Pack Furniture Assembly TV Wall Mounting Door Fitting/Trimming Fitting door Handles, latches, locks,etc Flooring: Laminate, vinyl, carpet, decking etc Odd Jobs e.g fix kitchen cabinet doors and drawers & floating shelves and mirrors Bespoke Furniture Fitting Flatpack Bookshelf/Bookcase Assembly Floating Shelves Fitting Curtain Pole Fitting Roller Blinds Fitting Kitchen Cabinet/Unit Fitting Kitchen Worktop Fitting Hanging mirrors Interior Door Installation/Fitting Internal Locks Britefinish assemble all types of flat pack items including: wardrobes, chest of drawers, beds, kitchen units, sheds, gym equipment, guest beds, bunk beds, office desk, chairs, sofas, garden furniture, home furniture, office furniture, swing sets,bikes, exercise equipment .... Britefinish assemble flatpack furniture items from major retailers: Ikea, Argos, Bensons for beds, Tesco,The Range, John Lewis, Dreams, Harveys, Very, Wayfair,Wickes, Tesco, B&Q, Amazon, Ebay, etc
Great work, very reliable and efficient.
Builder and maintenance contractor with over 30years experience in general building and roof, chimney repairs, leaking roofs and general repairs , any building works considered, we have repaired buildings of all ages and built walls Ect, any maintenance issues fixed and all work insured and guaranteed, also a roof washing system where we was repoint and seal with a waterproof coating, Loft insulation and damp proofing
Peter contacted me very quickly after I'd posted the job. He was very good, liaising with my tenants to get access and rang promptly to report back on what the issue was. Very prompt dealing with it, reasonable cost and really friendly guy. Would certainly use him again for any future issues.
GARAGE CONVERSION SPECIALISTS with a vast portfolio and customer base, our company has been established 10 years. Fully insured, all employees and sub contractors cscs trained/qualified. All works completed to a high standard at competitive prices
Thank you James, and ? ,sorry not sure of your name, for an excellent job replacing our bath sealant, then replacing broken door knob and fitting new toilet seat. All relatively small jobs but still booked us in swiftly and did an great job for a reasonable price. . Would use again and would highly recommend.
M&M Landscape Gardens
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18+ years of experience. Providing services, ranging from electricity, plumbing, home extension and more. With fully trained and experienced workers, ensuring quality everytime.
The entrance door to my flat needed to be adjusted to meet fire regulations. I was really pleased with the result. Mani is a skilled man who worked with care and attention to detail. He made sure that the finish was good and thoroughly cleared up afterwards. He was also courteous and clearly explained what he was doing.
GRD Design & Build Ltd is a reputable and dedicated home improvement company based in Southall, with five years of proven excellence in the industry. Our experienced team of four skilled professionals specializes in a variety of services, ensuring that every project is executed to the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship. Our Services: Painting and Wallpapering: Loft Conversion Flooring Roofing Plumbing Carpet& Lino Why Choose Us: Experienced Team: With five years of experience and a dedicated team of four professionals, we bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every project. Quality Craftsmanship Customer Satisfaction GRD DESIGN & build ltd , we believe in turning your vision into reality, enhancing your living spaces with professional and reliable services. Contact us today to discuss your next project and discover how
Mandir from final touch was amazing. I highly recommend him and final touch. I called final touch for an urgent job and they came the following day. No complaints and very reasonable price. I had to lay carpet on stairs, passage and two other rooms with carpet which did not fit exactly plus a combination of old and new carpet. Manvir was able to do it no problem and made it look easy. Get in touch with Manvir for any jobs. Will definitely be using them again
With many happy and returning customers over the last 10 years, you can be sure of being well looked after. Our aim is to provide a stress free project, delivered in a manner that I am confident will exceed your expectations. I work with a small team of trusted colleagues, who communicate and work together well. Our customers are accustomed the outstanding quality of projects we complete, by sourcing quality materials with experienced installers we create truly bespoke masterpieces lasting our customers many years. 5 year guarantees are included as standard on all completed work.
Leon was punctual and communicative and completed our landscaping job to a good standard and had some good design ideas. The team finished and cleaned up the entire work area in a tidy way. We have no hesitation in recommending him.
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.
LS Electrical is a small independent company which takes pride in all of its works no matter how little I have now expanded and have a couple qualified electricians in house so can now compete on bigger projects and also on 1st fix wiring wire at quicker speeds Since above I now have a full refurb team and can manage all sorts of refurbishment works from kitchen fitting to all building works Driveways to making wood doors I have now been trading 5 years and have confidence in my team of trades people to produce 5 star quality works
A simple job switching over twin dimmer light switch to a double on/off light switch
USE US ONCE,,,,,TRUST US ALLWAYS !
Very friendly and helpful service. Fairly priced quote so good value for money. Will be contacting them again if I need further work in the future. Thank you for your help
Just the Garden was established in West Molesey, with many years experience in the Gardening trade, Just The Garden are a professional, reliable and fully accredited company operating in West Molesey and the wider areas. We take pride in all our work.
Super value and first to respond
We have over 20 years of experience in ground work and landscape gardening and building services and our aim is to put our 20 year experience into your home so you can have a good experience using our service
Thanks James for completing an excellent job, very pleased with the work carried out. The team were excellent, friendly but professional. James knew exactly the issues and gave great advice and guidance. The team worked none stop throughout the day and the outcome is exactly what I wanted. I would definately recommend J M G Building Services to anyone and will be using them again in the future.
First 4 Paving Ltd create beautiful paths, driveways, patios and landscape gardens in a variety of styles and designs to perfectly complement your home. Our own teams of experienced, specialist installers, using only the best materials from leading suppliers Marshalls and Hanson paving will create your new installation with care and complying with the relevant British Standards
James and team were excellent. James quoted us and managed to fit us around other jobs really quickly. We had a complete garden renovation completed in 3 days . Would highly recommend , nothing was too much trouble and all his staff were fantastic. Thank you so much James and team .
Alliance building and landscapes Ltd are a family run business here at alliance we make sure all works is completed to customer satisfaction,no job to big or to small,contact us today for a free quote,book once,book right,book alliance
Thanks to Michael and the team for a great job rendering the chimney breast in the attic. Quoted and works completed in less than 48hrs. Not the cheapest of the quotes I received, but went with the positive reviews and wasn't disappointed.
We always aim to keep our customers happy and we love recommendation we have years of experience and a very friendly respectable team we use the best equipment to ensure our customers get what they desire.
Great job!! Very pleased with the new fencing. Thanks.
the owner of j and I roofing . I have been in the roofing trade since learning of my grandfather as a young boy first climbing ladders I am a dedicated precise and trustworthy tradesmen with a group of five men working for me all polite with a great work ethic. I started my company back in 2015 and have been persistent with my jobs with customer satisfaction always kept at a high standard.
30 years plus of experience, all general work carried out. Clean and tidy worker always reliable.
Hi johnsons renovations is a small, reliable company with a exceptional standard of work everything must be perfect and tidy wether it be painting and decorating , bathrooms , kitchen , tiling and everything else we do , such as . Plumbing Carpentry Partioning Fascia, soffits and guttering Bathrooms Kitchens Windows, doors and locks Roofing Tiling Painting and decorating And loads more. We offer full installations and general repairs, we will genuinely offer you the best options for you situation and not ours , we have over 20 yrs experience in multi trade building and are very confident in every job we do and know the customer will be made up with the result . Thank you for reading
Karl has now completed decorating my living room: laying laminate flooring, painting, etc. He did the work exceptionally well to my utmost satisfaction. He seems to be a very tidy worker and a good listener too. I highly recommend him.
I do all roofing and gutters and lead work and all brickwork and pointing
Very helpful and very prompt
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