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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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My business offers a multitude of home services providing quality workmanship throughout. I have a professional but friendly approach with everyone I deal with. I'm a plasterer qualified to NVQ Level 3 and have worked other trades in the building industry for nearly 20 years as well as being DBS checked & fully insured for piece of mind.
Great job
Richardson Roofing are a Kirkcaldy based firm who work nationally, across all of Scotland. We carry out all aspects of roofcare, including tiling, slates, leadwork, cementwork, flat roofs, guttering, roof cleaning and more. All works are guaranteed
Been proving exceptional service to customers for over a decade. Specialising in garden maintenance, Patios, house extension foundations and conservatory foundations. No Job too small. Construction plant competence scheme and NVQ level 3 qualified in excavations and transporting loads, with over 20 years experience. Friendly and professional service.
Established in 1984 Anglia Property Maintenance is a family run business Covering all aspects of commercial & residential landscaping projects across Cambridge and Cambridgeshire. Fully insured & references to hand. We have a dedicated team to get the results you require. Feel free to arrange a free quotation or free advice on any projects you have in mind. Quality assured… We work really hard to deliver exceptionally high standards throughout all of our Landscaping and Grounds Maintenance services. You can be sure of an exceptional service when choosing Anglian Property Maintenance for your next project Here is a list of various trades we undertake. Patios Block paving Driveway’s Fencing Turfing Artificial grass Garden walls Grounds maintenance Please don’t hesitate to contact us for a free estimate or any advise regarding your landscaping project’s. Looking forward to hearing from you Also you can find us on Checkatrade & Bark Daniel
Really high standard of work. Took their time to maintain the quality. Would definitely recommend.
Social Distancing Since 2020. We Are Here For You. We are a Son and Father team with a wealth of experience of working for private clients.We also work at Pinewood Studios building film sets and advertising sets.Painting,Plumbing and building works.If you want something different then you have found us.
Not only were Tim and Brian the best tradesmen who we have had, they were the tidest, most reliable, trustworthy people I have had work in my home. They stuck to the quote, fixed every problem that arose, made it as stress free as possible and were super friendly. They will be my first call for any future work that needs doing. They knocked down the wall between our kitchen and dinner and fitted a whole new kitchen... Couldnt be happier.
PVC Fitter & roofer all aspects of roofing & all aspects of uPVC fitted interior & exterior,All types of painting for industrial or private painting carried out. All types of flat roofs, to be rectified & all types of flat roofs piched with tiles
No good wouldn't recommend as job is still outstanding
Refurbishment Specialist
Groundwork / Foundations
Welcome to C Shambi Builders Ltd - Refurbishment Specialist ESTABLISHED SINCE 1995 We are a dedicated and highly professional team. Many of our team members have been with us since the very beginning. All our staff and contractors are registered and affiliated in their respective fields. Our Areas of Expertise: Extensions and Conversions - We provide a comprehensive design and build solution, handling everything from initial architectural drawings, and structural engineer calculations to the final build and certification, including all stages of planning. Refurbishments – Our services encompass plastering, painting and decoration. Kitchens – We offer carpentry design and fitting services, along with great supply deals on top brands like Howdens, Magnet and many more. Electrics - Our electrical expertise covers partial and full rewiring. We are committed to ensuring the safe and optimal functioning of your electrics Bathrooms – Our expertise includes installation, tiling, shower rooms and wet rooms. Plumbing - This encompasses the installation of new boilers and radiators. Carpentry – From wooden flooring to bespoke cupboards and wardrobes, doors, pocket doors, locks, windows, decking and fencing, we've got you covered. Refurbishment Specialist offers a complete service from design to completion, regardless of the project size. We are committed to working closely with our clients to ensure a smooth and satisfactory outcome. Our detailed quotations break down the entire project. Our services extend to Central, North, West & East London, Hertfordshire and the Home Counties. Please don't hesitate to contact us to discuss your needs, seek further information, or request a comprehensive and obligation free quotation.
At OCTOPUSBUILDERSLIMITED, we pride ourselves on our extensive 16 years of experience in the construction industry. Our dedicated team works collaboratively to handle every aspect of your building project from A to Z. Whether it’s residential or commercial, we ensure quality craftsmanship and excellence in every job. Let us turn your vision into reality!
Great job and would definitely rate it higher if I could. Will keep in mind if I need other jobs done around the house.
We are a company with a young and dynamic team that strives to always be informed about the products, solutions and systems sold, both the classic ones and the latest news, the construction team will be available at any time, for any project. Thank you
Hi, we recently had Florin and his team do some work on my Mum’s garden. He has done an incredible job and we are so pleased with his work. He was very friendly, polite and completed the job in a timely manner and to our requirements and very reasonable and good ideas and suggestions. I would have no problem recommending him and his team again and will do in the future if I know of anyone needing. Thank you for your hard work
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Hello! We are a team of tradesmen who work hard to make building ideas a reality. With all our commitment and skills, our work is up to a high standard. Full refurbishment, extensions, lofts. Feel free to ask for a quote. Anytime you are welcome.
Very conscientious, I’m Well impressed with how Professional and reliable Oleg was and this is 6 months after he finished the job.
Plumbserve are a family run business with over 30 years experience. We offer a comprehensive service from design-supply & Installation for all trades. we pride ourself on Quality and reliability, a company you can trust to get the job done to the best standard at a cost that wont break the bank. Our Tradesmen are fully qualified, directly employed by us Our services include but are not restricted to: > Bathrooms and wet rooms > Plumbing and drainage > Kitchens and extensions > Boilers and heating > 24 hour Emergency call out service > All trade maintenance & Repair We cover all of Edinburgh, the Lothians and west Lothian Call us today to obtain your FREE no obligation quotation
Plumbserve did a brilliant job installing a new bathroom at my house. Top quality workmanship, thorough, professional service at a very competitive price. Would not hesitate to use them again.
Our Services: skimming/dry lining/rendering/tilling/brickwork/blockwork/driveways/patios/garden renovation/bathrooms/extensions/conversions/renovations. NO JOB TOO SMALL! With experience of over 20 years in construction. If you want honest, reliable tradesmen, who pay attention to detail & take pride in their work, look no further.
Fast, efficient and quantity! Definitely will take his service again.
With over 75 years of combined experience at OWD Group, we offer a cost effective and professional service to all of our customers. We specialize in the building and design of extensions, orangeries and conservatories and offer a FREE bespoke design service including CAD drawings. Whether you want a traditional 'brick and block' build or the innovative 'SIP panel' build, we can meet your exact requirements. All of our products are tested by independent agencies to conform to the highest industry standards, British Standards, Secured by Design and Building Regulations. All of our installation teams are fully accredited and we offer full Insurance Backed Guarantees for all work undertaken… offering greater protection and peace of mind to customers.
Quality of work was excellent
KST Homes LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
KST Homes delivering personalised homes with over 20 years experience in the industry. We carry out works including new build, renovations and extensions. We have team of tradesmen to all sorts of building works.
M&A Property Specialists LTD is a family run business covering all aspects of Joinery and Building works. We thrive on the quality and finish of the projects we undertake. We have our own architects and structural engineers who provide all the required details for extensions, conversions and new builds. APL also organise all site visits with building inspectors to give customers peace of mind and a hassle free service. At M&A we use our own 3D CAD system in order to design any new kitchens we are to supply and install, we can include these in to Architecht plans to give you a visual of the room once completed. All our kitchens are high standard and all our doors we use are FIRA gold approved, we mainly use painted doors but if you want a more of a budget door we can use the vinyl wrap doors. About myself: I have been in the Joinery and building industry for 20 years with a huge vast experience in all trades and I know what to expect from various tradesmen from a finishing point. All electrical work and gas work is all completed by approved and qualified tradesmen. My main trade is joinery but in the 20 years of being in the building game I have gained the experience in each aspect in the building game which has its advantages when project managing a job whilst being on site working. M&A look forward to providing competitive quotations for our customers and working with yourselves as we have just came back to rated people. Payments to M&A can be made via Bank transfer, Cash or Credit/Debit card
Anthony was brilliant, fitted a new kitchen in my Daughters home, absolutely delighted with the service and the quality. would highly recommend APL .. Dave
Anthony Flude Refurbishments
Groundwork / Foundations
Company has been established for 25+ years . Fully insured . Small freindly team.
Best possible work, honesty is my main moto. I don't cheat with my customer. I always try to make my client happy.
Saleh was great, even thought the job took longer than expected and we had to go to two locations. Salah was very flexible and did not complain. He got on with the works and was very pleasant. I would recommend him to anyone and would use him again. Thank you Salah!
With over 30 years of experience in all levels of the building industry, I have a team of fully insured trades people at your disposal. Our speciality is interior refurbishments inc. kitchen/bathroom fitting and supply and associated services.
Excellent response and communication.
Great hard working lads. We take on all aspects of pointing, roofing, gardening, just ask. No job too big no job too small
John and his team did a fantastic job replacing a Velux window for a larger one, fixing the flashing on two chimneys, fixing and clearing my gutters. It was a pleasure having them advise and fixing damp penetration issues I was having. Would recommend highly.
Landmark Builders
Groundwork / Foundations
30 years experience. we offer a complete building service, from newbuild ,renovation/restoration, all trades included are experienced, trustworthy and our trades like plumbers and electricians are all certificated, from large projects to a roof repair or a wobbly fence, give us a call and see if we can help
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