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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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Local.glazing company, specializing in upvc window installations and repairs
Would highly recommend talked us through options and the door and panel look great
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Spencer is extremely efficient garden now looks great patio is a great improvement
Hello my name is Emil and I working more then 9 years in construction,carpenters job,flat pack Thanks
I did send he was friendly and quite quick. Also told us further work could be done.Done a good job
plumber engineer with 6 years experience covering a high quality standards most of the trades and jobs related with construction industy
The job was completed at the recommended time scheduled, to a professional standard. Very happy with my new bathroom. Very hard working, neat, tidy, friendly and communicated well. Happy customer. Thank you Alin.
Tekton Build LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
We are a well established Building company with over 20 years experience in the building trade. We build everything from New Homes, extensions, alterations and renovations.
KOALA BUILDING SERVICES LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
Family based company. Main area of work: Patios Driveways Extensions
TRADE ASSOCIATES
Groundwork / Foundations
Trade Associates has been successfully running for 5 years now, primarily through recommendations. But with the climate as it is now we would like to combine providing job opportunities for traders that may now be struggling with growing our business further.
LBD Kitchens
Groundwork / Foundations
Haywood Developments - Working with our customers to provide a fully project managed Extensions, Garage Conversions and home renovations. Providing excellent customer service and workmanship at a competitive price.
JCT BUILDING SOLUTIONS
Groundwork / Foundations
With over 20 years of experience we pride ourselves on leaving our customers as happy as ever with their new floor, we know everything there is to know about wood and luxury vinyl tiles and will be there to help you choose and design your new floor. Our team will strive to find you the best quality flooring to suit your needs whether its solid/engineered wood or luxury vinyl tiles that tickle your fancy we will supply and install your new floor with a flawless finish.
I have been in the building trade for almost 35 years , so have developed a vast range of knowledge through out this time . All work is carried out to the highest of standards with the greatest of care to your home .
I was apprehensive appointing someone through a website, but so glad I did Carl was great, from a very informative initial meeting and then estimate all the way through to completion of 1 ensuite, 1 small family bathroom and 1 small downstairs toilet. He was full of useful ideas which helped the project go smoothly. Due to the nature of this project, flexibility was key and he excelled in this regards. Thanks Carl for making the bathrooms so much better,
we are a small company based in chertsey suppling all trades from groundworks to completion many happy customers
Very professional. Very quick and faultless work. Tidied up afterwards. I would recommend him.
We are a small family business in Nottingham, specialized on kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms.I am a designer and my husband is a joiner, both with 20 years of experiences. We are new on Rated People, but have very good references from previous customers.
Really really happy with the all-round service from Vanda, Steve and the team. They were really helpful, punctual and did a fantastic job of removing a supporting wall, helping project manage and sort out issues with our kitchen delivery. We absolutely love our kitchen and this is down to their fantastic work. Highly recommend!
K&H CONSTRUCTION SERVICES
Groundwork / Foundations
K&H Construction Services is a professional building company based in Guildford Surrey and the surrounding areas. From installing a new driveway to building your dream home, we can provide you with the help and advice you will need on helping you meet your expectations. We have an excellent reputation for our quality of work, which can be seen right here on our online home. K&H Construction Services can undertake a wide array of projects, no matter how big or small they may be. K&H Construction Services ensure that every project is finished to the highest of standards and more importantly - on time. We respect your property and and will ensure cleanliness at all times - we treat your home as we would our own. So whether you are looking for a small repair to your roof or you need to turn that wasted space into something habitable, look no further - contact K&H Construction Services today.
We are a small team based in Ross on Wye. We undertake all aspects of Bathroom Fitting , Plumbing and Heating , Electrical installations , Tiling and general property maintenance. We are City and Guilds accredited and work to the highest standard.
Excellent service and communication. Karl managed to fix a leak that other plumbers had failed to after several attempts. Tiling looks superb too. Thanks very much. Highly recommended
WK CONTRACTORS Limited BATHROOMS – full project management of complete bathroom, shower room and wet room refurbishments including electrics and tiling. KITCHENS - full project management of complete kitchen installations including electrics, gas and tiling. KITCHEN/DINER – knock through to create a new space? We offer full project management of your job including wall removal, steel support if needed and full installation. FITTING ONLY or FULL SUPPLY & FIT SERVICE – whichever you prefer, we will project manage your entire job.
Hi my company has the ability to improve all works on your property as we carry out all aspects of building works from new driveways patios and from roof repairs to new roofs
Excellent in all respects. Work carried out efficiently to my specific requirements at a very reasonable price. Michael's demeanor couldn't be faulted being most conscientious and obliging.
we are now trading as powells construction
We are really happy with the work, I would recommend Castle Construction to anyone.. Fantastic quality, reliable and a friendly bunch of lads, we agreed a price a start date and it was all delivered to what we agreed. Thanks again, I am sure we will use them again.
Roofing , Cladding and Building LTD company. industrial , commercial, retail , private and agricultural . Building and renovation works. House renovations and remedial works. ASBESTOS REMOVALS AND OVERSKIN SPECIALISTS. flat roofing and tin sheeting. single ply and pvc rubber roofing. cladding ,rainwater pipes, and gutters. gutter clearance and blocked downpipes. GRP AND FELT ROOFING TOP SEAL APPROVED INSTALLERS Window and door sealing works, and re-sealing works. Machine operators and drivers. insulation works , internal and external. steelwork and metsec framing. maintenance and remedials Building works. All high level works and signage fitting. House clearances and removals. SOFFITS AND CANOPIES erected and dismantled . Full shed and garage demolition and removal works. Try us for a price , we won't be beaten. We cover all jobs nationwide. We provide scaffold and netting when needed and all work is guaranteed.
Excellent service, loaded job late last night and job is already complete above and beyond our expectations. Thank you so much, Luke�s has been very professional, communication has been second to none updating us throughout. The overall service has been outstanding would highly recommend.
About us: PPM BUILDERS NORTHAMPTON LTD is a building firm based in Northampton covering all aspects of building work. We offer a wide range of services employing both modern and traditional techniques in order to guarantee complete customer satisfaction. We have a full team of qualified regular sub-contractors who have been a part of PPM for many years, a number of whom were trained by Matthew - the director. We undertake work from small remedial alterations and maintenance up to complete refurbishments and renovations. Why choose us? 1. Honest & affordable prices - over the years, we have developed new techniques, knowledge and contacts which is the reason we are able to offer unbeatable prices for the standard of work that we consistently achieve. We are good at sourcing high quality materials and appliances for our customers which allows us to offer an even better price. 2. Professional and high standard work - PPM uses the highest quality of materials on every job and all work is carried out to the highest possible standard. 3. Unparalleled customer service - we provide full assistance and honesty from start to finish. We do not regard the job as complete until our customer is 100% satisfied. We believe communication is very important; we always keep our customers informed. Choose PPM for a stress free experience! 4. Fully trained & experienced - PPM has 15+ years of experience. All of our sub-contractors are very professional with years of experience. PPM have the best of the best tradesman. 5. Tidiness - one of the many positive comments we get when carrying out work is our tidiness. We ensure all jobs are only complete once the place is spotless! 6. Fully insured & guaranteed - public liability insurance held up to 1 million pound. All work is fully guaranteed; Roofing: 25 years; Rendering: 15 years; All other work is guaranteed for 1 year.
Matt and his team were great. The job was a complete redesign of our garden and the work was completed on time and within budget. Special thanks to Chris, Ross and Jamie who worked like Trojans and only needed a regular supply of strong tea to keep them going! Very pleased with the results and would have no hesitation in recommending PPM for your hard landscaping project.
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