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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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With experience from Italy and from U.K in painting and decorating. Wi try to doo our best for the client, to give quality , responasability,advice if its necesary in our jobs. We belive your home should reflect your personal taste and style.
Had bathroom window sill and window repaired, excellent service, highly recommend. Came out and gave us a quote and then came to do the job within a week to high quality, well-priced and very efficient. Thank you!!
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G Greaves carpentry and building services of the complete package from new builds to residential cleaning,we cater for all our clients needs across London and Essex. Carpentry specialists. 17 years experience Fully qualified and certified operatives. All building and maintenance works undertaken. Fully insured. Guaranteed work.
George did an excellent job repairing the flashing on my porch roof and waterproofing my gutter. He was precise on exactly what work he was going to do, he gave me a reasonable price and he is always polite and clear in his communications. I would have no hesitation in recommending George for roofing work.
MTP Contracts ltd is a well-established company working in Stourbridge and the surrounding area. From damp proofing and sound proofing to extensions or conversions we can assist you. Please view our web site for full details.
Matt gave us great advice , brilliant communication and was quick to come view the job.
Company I have I opened 5 years ago. I also worked for some contacts ratings are visible and you can turn them on to see it.
Bogumil is a master of his trades. He was one of 3 trades people that turned up and was by far the most professional. Always on time, straight forward with pricing and kept us updated all through the job. Went that extra mile to help us with a couple of issues we weren't aware of and sorted everything! Will definitely be saving his details for any future jobs. Thanks again for all your help with our flat
We have been trading for 23 years in plumbing. We offer all plumbing needs. We also have an emergency call out.
We are a family run company based just outside of Chester and have worked in Chester,Wirral and North Wales for over 30 years.We undertake all aspects of building work.We specialise in new build garages and extensions.We fit replacement rubber roofing at very competitive costs.Replacement fascias guttering,cladding etc. We have been general builders for more than 25 years. . We undertake structural steelwork,renovations and ,we have completed many house refurbishments for local developers in recent years,mostly in the Chester area We have built new build houses. Fit new fascia and gutter systems.We offer plastering services,We always promise to be competitive on price whilst providing a top class service.We are always fair in our price and customer satisfaction is paramount. .
Colin and his team did a great job - wall repaired good as new. Very professional and good follow-up communication and competitive pricing. Would recommend highly.
Plum Building Services Ltd is a building company based in London. We work for both landlords and private home owners on new builds, extensions, refurbishments, repair and maintenance. No job is too big or too small. Quality is our guarantee.
We are a family run Painting and Decorating company based within Writtle, Essex. Established in 1992 by one of the partners, Martin Hoban. Specialising in Internal and External Finishes and Redecorations. Our aim is to provide a professional and reliable service to our clients.
Over 30 years trade experience
Great work, came when he said he would and did a great job. thoroughly recommend.
JT Morgan Brickwork is a family business operating for over 20yrs. From laying garden walls to extensions we take pride in offering all customers nothing but the best value for money.The majority of my work comes by recommendation from previous clients.
Very tidy and professional job. Turned up on time kept everything clean and tidy and did the job well. Would recommend and use again.
Self employed roofer and builder . All work carried out to a very high standard . Very honest and reliable . Prices are very competitive .
we pride ourselves in top quality workmanship we are fully insured ,we always keep our site clean and tidy . (no fuss no dust thats us )
Needed some internal work, including walls and chimney removal. Price was competitive and the work was excellent. Turned up on time, kept us informed and no hidden extras! Not only was the work first class he also took the hassle of building control, submitted the documents and when the inspector wanted an extra bracket for the chimney, he was there, as arranged 2 days later to fit it. If anyone is thinking of needing building work, make sure you include Kevin in your plans.
Rocco Developments Quality and satisfaction guaranteed - All aspects of our building and joinery work undertaken are carried out by time served qualified tradesmen, are guaranteed and are of the highest quality.
Construction Services
I all ways wanted to be a bricklayer just like my farther so he sent me to college witch I did for two years learning the trade then worked for various companies gaining my experience giving me the opportunity to working with other trades witch I started to learn witch gave me more confidence to work for myself so I could provide a good customer service with the reliability and attention to detail with the 33 + years in the trade.
5 star! Quick response to advert, & quote. Arrived on time, did a great job & cleaned up afterwards. Definitely use again.
Stuart has been in the Building industry for 25 years and cover a broad spectrum of building works services ranging from :- plastering *decorating *bespoke bathrooms,laminate flooring and kitchens and plumbing.Fully insured (certificate on request)
Hi im Joe, from J.A Maintenance. Im a qualified and competent Maintenance man. I pride myself on providing a friendly, honest and trustworthy service.
Very reasonable priced. Work would have been done next day if I'd have been free. Excellent job installing my cat flap. I would definitely recommend and use Joe's services again. Thank you
Dg building and landscapes is a small company with a large amount of experience. We are qualified and experienced in all types of landscaping and general buidling work, with over 20 years experience. Give us a try for a quality service at an affordable price. We now accept all major credit and debit cards.
Akoni is a building company who can provide you with peace of mind and satisfaction. Our primary aim is to make sure our clients are respected and listened too with what they want to achieve. Over 20 years experience previously known as Aquafix which was predominantly bathrooms and heating systems. We branched out into our own developments and renovations. We now cover all trades and can supply you with the best results. All trades are fully qualified with years and years of experience. We aim to work closely with our clients from start to finish and use some great designers, architects, and structural engineers to help the process easy and take the stress away from you.
I am hard working, polite, reliable and honest young man who has worked in construction for many years and have worked for some well known companies over the years such as C3 constuction, rock civilis engenering, SNI construction and Palmers conservatories. I do work such as bricklaying, roofing, slabbing, gutters, sofit and facias, drains, fencing, concreting, painting and decorating and much more. Just call for free friendly quote or advice.
Did a very good job, pleased with it. Polite and friendly tradesperson. Would recommend.
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