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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
Browse Groundwork / Foundations specialists
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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A Bellu Landscape well-maintained garden can boost moods and make any living or working environment a whole lot more pleasant. Whether your garden is overrun and needs trimming or you want some landscaping to be done, we can help. At Bellu Landscapes, we offer a friendly professional gardening service from a full garden design or weekly maintenance. Our services are designed around each customer’s unique needs and vary from installing fencing and decking to irrigation. From daily maintenance to one-off work, we offer advice and help to residential and commercial properties around Surrey, Woking, Chobham, Weybridge and Guildford. Our commercial clients include schools, business parks, medical facilities, property management companies, residential care homes, hotels and restaurants. We help with anything you need: lawn maintenance, turfing, landscaping, fencing, lawn mowing, out builds, and much more. So whether you want us to install a new chain link fence or a trellis, trim hedges, weeding, create a water feature, install a shed, etc., our gardening specialists will take care of your every wish. We use the best quality equipment and products and our gardening experts ensure a high level of service and attention to detail. We work on gardens and grounds of any size and in any state so please get in touch to chat about how what you have in mind and we look forward to bringing your vision to life. You can count on Bellu Landscapes to create the garden of your dreams at cost-effective rates. Thanks for your interest and we look forward to hearing from you and making sure you will be delighted with your outdoor,Many Thanks Gicu
He is a highly competent, hard working, very competitive worker. His work is flawless and he is very versatile. He has completed many jobs after the first job was completed. I have no hesitation in recommending his work. My only concern is his communication as English is not his first language but if he's not sure about anything he will ask so that isn't a big issue. Highly recommended.
My team of highly skilled professionals are committed to ensuring that our clients receive the best possible service. Whether you need a complete landscape makeover or regular maintenance, our dedicated team is here to exceed your expectations. Contact all solutions gardening & landscaping today to schedule a consultation and let us bring your dream landscape to life.
Was quick to respond to my post and was out next day for a quote and was able to start the job straight away. Speedy service
Full time gardener with years of experience
Super job, thank you!
Hi, At Tw Installations we offer a service of high quality work, to give you the customer piece of mind . We are friendly so please don't be worried to ask questions if you have any queries, we are reliable and trust worthy. Thank you Tom
Very professional and personable in his approach to quoting. Arrived exactly on time. Provided before and after photographs and clear details on the products being utilised. Steven, didn't just quote for what I wanted done, he also gave me alternatives with clear explanations of the benefits with each option. A very easy recommendation.
Over 30 years experience specialising in all aspects of home improvements. Reliable friendly team regularly undertaking conversions, conservatories and extensions.
sorry - I mean Cliff (not Clive!)
WELCOME TO CONSTRUCTION LONDON We offer our services throughout , Essex and East and south London. Construction has a wealth of building and construction experience including , extensions, renovations, restorations, and more, we are happy to do bigger project of paint one room and Our team has a solid foundation of highly skilled devoted and dedicated tradesmen you can trust. We all strive for perfection. We offer an affordable, reliable and high quality service with specific attention to detail resulting in clean and precise work. Our team ethos is to continue to deliver these high standards to each of our clients, from the initial meeting right through to the completion of a project
Alex did a fantastic job redecorating my flat. His communication was excellent, he got everything finished on time, he made helpful suggestions of things that needed doing. Highly recommended.
We are a traditional small family business with over 30 years experience in all kinds of woodworking. We specialize in complex and obscure jobs that many others won't undertake, churches, listed buildings, restoration as well as everyday jobs.
Fantastic job. So pleased with it.
All guttering fashions soffits down pipes new upvc dry verge dry ridge systems supplied and fitted new roofs also available
I wanted a Church Font removing from my garden and this company performed the task with ease. Both of them disposed of the font and cleared the area with no trouble at all. Cannot praise their work ethic enough, polite, pleasant and courteous. Although the font was large they managed to break it up and take away all the remains. Would heartily recommend and they seem to cater for all jobs concerning the garden. Well done lads and thank you.
Multi-Trade specialists covering across the capital and surrounding areas, joinery , carpentry , electricians , plumbers ,Plasteres , decorators ,kitchen fitters .
I had a very bad experience. Builder was rarely around. No project managers to watch of tilers, floorers, carpenters.
I have been building for 26 yrs now so I have a large amount of experience in plastering ,woodwork and general building.
Painting and decorating and all types of works around your house, internal and external.
Family running business based in Gravesend. Our priority is excelent service and satisfide customer. Top quality work is our trademark. Specialised in all type of build work with very expirienced team. Plenty of references form our previous satisfied clients. In need of top quality builders? call for more informations.
WHAT-YOU-EXPECT LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
CLT MAINTENANCE LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
Newly formed property Maintenance company in the south east. Have 5 years experience in construction and facility maintenance industry. We offer services In: -Electrical -plumbing -Carpentry -Garden maintenance and Guttering -Painting and decorating -Handyman -locksmith -Demolition and waste removal -Fencing And much more… Fully insured and experienced in a wide range of trades We are a very competitive and hard working company.
At CLG Projects we offer a range of services and specialise in Construction, Hard/Soft Landscaping and Groundwork. We take pride in combining our experience and passion for our work with our client communication to help achieve their vision and make the duration of their project as affordable and stress free as possible. We keep customer satisfaction as one of our top priorities as we believe that good working relationships are key to a successful project. Based in Essex, serving Essex and the Surrounding areas. Services we provide Construction Landscaping Groundwork Refurbishment Garden Rooms/summerhouses Conversions Driveways Fencing Pergolas Drainage Why work with us - Professional workmanship - Friendly service - 10+ years experience - Complete building and landscaping package - Fully insured - Free, no obligation quotations
Not the cheapest but also not the most expensive. Very friendly. Sent a detailed quote ahead of time. Turned up when he said he would and everything was very well organised and efficient. Very happy with the quality of the work and the job as a whole. Highly recommended.
PDH Decorating Services
Groundwork / Foundations
I've been a fully apprenticeship trained decorator for 41 years and cover all aspects of decorating both internal and exsternal wallpapering, staining and varnishing finishing ,spraying effects ,marbling ,graining ,stenciling effects wall and floor tiling and all finishes to a high standard there a pictures of my work on my profile thankyou
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.
- Knocking down Load-bearing walls -Replace damaged lintels/porches -chimney breast removal - -all aspects of structural work -Heritage & New Build -Pointing and repointing - Stone-Masonry & Carving - Restoration & Conservation - Stone-Fitting & Repointing - Exterior Building Cleaning Hot Steam
Thank you so so much great people great work im very happy would definitely use them again ????
UTB CONSTRUCTION was established in 2013 and is general contractor offering construction services in terms of full and part renovations houses, extensions, lofts conversion , first fix Carpentry, second fix Carpentry , bathroom fittings, kitchens fittings new built houses and summer homes,Drylining , plastering & Rendering, Decorating, specialist with driveways resin bond, polished concrete, paterne imprinted concrete,tarmac, and block paving.
Dimitrios did an excellent job working rapidly and efficiently and very willing to do extra work to achieve perfection
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