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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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High quality services with professional and friendly attitude.
Five stars- excellent service . Professional, friendly, honest and high quality work!
Multi skilled and creative. I have years of experience in house extensions, full renovations or smaller jobs, commercial or residential, Modern or classic, I am competent at what I do and put an effort into finishing each and every job with perfection and the customers’ satisfaction. I believe that as a small business, my communication and work ethics is a major aspect of what I do. Which is why I am very mindful of each customer and their requirements.
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
Excellent work. Very helpful and professional in both their approach and carrying out the works. Highly recommend
We are professional and reliable Essex based company with over 15 years experience in affordable alterations to your home or business,we are proud of our workmanship and always carry out work to the highest standard, No job is too big or small.
Polite hard working tradesmen with a very good quality of work.
High quality of offered services, flexible and reliable builders just for you. We always meet the deadlines set with customers and make sure they are proud of work we've done. "Great prices and fast, quality work" - these words describe us accurately.
I cannot speak highly enough of the MBS team. They were everything one would expect from a service provider. They were punctual, polite, they knew what they were doing, the quality of workmanship was high, they were honest and their prices are fair. Most of all -they were reliable and clearly had our best interests at heart. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them to any other prospective customers. Excellent!
Best In Resin Driveway
Groundwork / Foundations
We Plan, Design & Build Bespoke Driveways, we are a specialist in resin bound gravel, landscaping, artificial grass, and garden room/pods company with over 37 years experience in garden renovations, resin bound gravel, garden rooms /pods and artificial grass jndustry working to a very high standard. Based inBarnoldswick , Lancashire, we cover the whole of Lancashire and the North West.
PW building and roofing ltd We are a medium family run business, with 30 years experience in all building and roofing. We also do loft conversions, conservatories, windows and doors. Kitchen and bathroom. All works are carried out to a very high standard.
Paul quoted for job and completed on the same day. Pleased to say gutter no longer leaks.
We are a professional company with a team of 5, showing dedication and flexible approach to all sort of work required around your home. Most of our employees worked in Germany so you can expect high quality work, finish and attention to details from us.
Very happy with the job - done on time and to the agreed budget.
I have been Roofing for the past 15 years, we cover all aspects of roofing inc Tiling, Slating,Flat roofs, Lead works,Fascia and Soffits and guttering, Repair works. We also cover small building work and general maintenance.
very polite it was a small job came same day job put on ,pleased on time and sorted it for me.would recommend and use again.
Hi I'm Neil Ainsworth director of NOA Builders. NOA Builders Ltd,is a small building firm with many years experience in a wide range of trades. We pride ourselves on doing a fantastic job with an exceptional finish. We treat clients houses with upmost respect, and will leave your property as clean and tidy as we find it. All of NOA builders contactors are fully Qualified in there respective trades. We have two Carpenters, a Stone Mason,a bricklayer, a painter & decorator, Plasterer & a roofer. We build extensions from the ground up, bathrooms & kitchens from start to finish, and basically cover all aspects of building. We're also very happy to do smaller jobs. I look forward to quoting jobs for you, and hopefully doing some quality building works for you. Many thanks Neil
Couldn't rate this company highly enough, from the very first contact to the finished job. They quoted competitively and quickly , regular message updates throughout the process. The job was started and finished on the days stated and the house was left in a very tidy state . The tradesmen were all skilled and lovely to boot , they went above and beyond to help me out. I am delighted with the job and just need them to do the rest of my house now!!
hi i am a time served carpenter and joiner of the old school, i am semi retired but still looking for work i have years of experience in all aspects of the trade, including kitchens flooring plumbing and as a handyman able to turn myself to do almost anything that is required to a high standard. i am new to RP in this area.
First Class Tradesman, Knew what he was doing and flexible with appointments
started business as parternership in 2007, we grown our portfolio from 2 houses to 86 units today, we also helped over 100 homeowners and 25 landlords including housing association, we help from a full consultancy package to build yur dreams to even help with leasing to our corporate contacts if you wish to invest. featured on HOMES UNDER THE HAMMER, we pride our selves in job well done, we always make sure we start projects within 2 to 3 weeks from time we agree and we always deliver our projects on time; we make the impossible a luxury and affordable possible while we take all the stress away; BGH combines technical expertise with exceptional customer service, ensuring every client benefits from cutting-edge technologies tailored to their home needs. with industry leading certifications and proven track record, BGH is a top choice for those seeking efficient, reliable and successful renovations We ate fully accredited Offer full guarantees and insurances including insurance backed guarantee and deposit guarantee We are specialist in new build, extensions, heavy refurbs, hmo and luxury conversions
Experienced builder NEW TO RATED PEOPLE ???? Hi everyone. I’m Mitch, I’ve been in the trade since leaving school. I am a general builder that specialises in timber work. I do most jobs from small jobs like laminate flooring all the way upto 2 storey extensions. For the larger jobs I have a reliable team of builders including electricians, plumbers and bricklayers. We are happy to quote anything, bespoke is my passion. If you can’t get someone to build it, we can! Please feel free to browse photos of my work, I will try upload a little bit of everything. If you don’t see a photo of a job your asking for, feel free to contact me and I’m sure I will be able to show you examples of my work in that area. Friendly team of lads aging between 18 and 66! We look forward to working with you. P.s as mention above we are new to rated trades and as such have decades of experience, thousands of builds under our belts but alas, no rating on here. Any and all feedback will be most welcome. Stay safe everyone and see you on the job!
Mitch did an amazing job would definitely employ him again
My name is Dan and i am a sole trader working in building trade for over 11 years.I consider myself to be friendly reliable and hard working and i always put customer satisfaction as a top priority and complete work to high standards which in return keeps me busy
Dan was very good. Explained what he could do. The finished job looks lovely. Within the first week the neighbors have commented on what a good job he and his men have done. Great job. Thank you all.
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)
Thank you Luke and Dwain! You were so quick and professional. You managed to locate and fix the leak in our roof that 3 other roofers missed. I would definitely recommend you to others. Luke even called us today following the heavy rain to check that the leak was sorted. Really happy with their work, will use them again and woukd recommend.
JW Construction Joinery Building Roofing We are members of the Lancashire SafeTrader, Trust a Trader, Competent Roofer, we can self certify all our projects to building control, All our work is carried out to the highest of standards.
Very quick response and attended job on time as promised. He was polite and completed the work in time.
MAJOR STRUCTURAL Steel work on victorian and edwardian properties and full refurbs and alterations. Over 40years experience.
Pat was reliable and very experienced. He arrived promptly and gave good advice, and left the site tidy at the end of each day. Also he's a very nice guy! We would definitely want to work with him again.
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2M Construction is a London based family business and we pride ourselves on our diverse portfolio, including different kind of projects in the residential sector. 2mconstruction co uk
Did a great job, very efficient and completed installing a shower unit, light and door in one day. Highly recommend.
Sole Trader in 2008, now become Limited Company!(summer 2016). Starting as a Horticulturalist, now we are undertaking Landscaping, garden contracts and al aspects of building works. Any aspect of your Property or Garden we can undertake! FULLY INSURED and carried out by experts there is no job big or small we cannot do. (Bigger works and at your request we can amend our insurance details to suit your project requirements as well as reassuring you!) We have licensed and registered utility services (New to 2018!) We can't wait to do Great things together....
I am very happy with all the work that has been done so far. I have entered contract for regular maintenance with the company. Mr Scot is very professional and courteous and one gets more then one pays for.
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