Find foundation, underpinning and piling experts

Post your job for free. Get quotes. Read reviews.

Over 10,000 rated tradespeople
are ready to help you get your job done

Over 3 million happy homeowners
have found a quality tradesperson

Over 1 million ratings
with 88,000 5* ratings in the last 12 months

Join our group of happy customers

Thousands of 5 star reviews

Read real reviews from customers about their service experiences.

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

Foundations, underpinning and piling are complex, technical services that require the know-how of specialist groundworkers and engineers. More than any other part of your home, it pays to invest in solid foundations, so find a professional you can trust today.

Browse Underpinning / Piling / Foundations specialists

Take a look at our Underpinning / Piling / Foundations specialists profiles, read reviews and request quotes directly.

Underpinning, piling and foundation construction – Rated People

When it comes to foundations and underpinning, the name tells you everything you need to know about their importance to your home. This specialist groundwork quite literally provides the base your home is built on. And that’s why it’s absolutely vital the professionals you use are experienced experts who know what they’re doing.

The complexity of foundations (and underpinning or piling, if required) depends on the structure you’re building, and the state of the ground your home or plot sits on. Basic foundations involve filling trenches (dug precisely according to plans) with a layer of solid concrete and then building blockwork up to ground level. Alternatively, an entire trench can be filled with concrete to just below ground level before adding damp proof coursing.

Piling is becoming an increasing popular alternative to standard footings or foundations. It involves driving piles into the ground, which are made from steel, concrete or even wood. A ground beam then sits atop the foundation, which your structure can be built on.

Underpinning is required when existing foundations have become defective, and to counter issues like subsidence. The appropriate method will be recommended by an experienced groundwork specialist and potentially a structural engineer too. The standard approach to underpinning involves excavating specific sections below the footing and reinforcing them with concrete. Piling techniques provide an alternative to traditional underpinning and can be used in situations where there’s restricted access. Not only is piling faster than standard underpinning, but it has a higher load capability and less disruption. Those benefits come at a cost though, and you’ll find piling is significantly pricier than standard concrete underpinning.

Cost of foundations, underpinning and piling

It pays to invest in foundations, but quite how much you’ll need to invest depends on the type of foundations you require. Basic foundation laying involves the following steps (excluding site clearance and the setting out of footings):

  • Excavation: £7-£10 per sqm
  • Laying foundations (concrete and blockwork): £40-£60 per sqm

Piling costs are typically significantly higher than standard foundations – anywhere from 2-3 times more expensive than the concrete and blockwork method.

Similarly, underpinning costs vary according to the issue that needs to be resolved, and the method selected. For mass concrete underpinning you can expect to pay between £1,000-£2,000 per linear metre.

How to build a foundation

Basic foundations follow a fairly simple process. After you’ve consulted a structural engineer and have all the necessary plans approved, the first step is to dig out trenches. Your groundwork professional may recommend a ground survey before any digging begins. This process involves creating trial holes to ensure the foundation method you plan to use is appropriate. With (or without) that survey complete, footings can then be dug to the agreed level.

The next phase involves laying concrete into the base of the trench to at least 250mm in depth. Blockwork is then built up to floor level. This method is called a strip foundation. Alternatively, a technique known as “trenchfill” involves (unsurprisingly) filling the trench with concrete to just below ground level. Both methods are completed with the application of a damp-proof course onto which the ground floor can be installed.

How does piling work

There are three main piling techniques: screw piling, pile and beam, and piled raft.

Screw piling is the simplest piling technique to execute. A small crew of ground-workers can install screw piles and brackets by hand or with the assistance of a small excavator. This method is well-suited to walls and larger structures, when used with supporting brackets. Screw piling offers a number of benefits, including ease of installation, lower costs and reduced environmental impact.

The pile and beam method involves installing mini-piles either side of a wall. Brickwork can then be removed below the affected wall, and a reinforced concrete needle beam inserted to connect the piles. The pile and beam technique is well-suited to homes on smaller plots, or with restricted access. It’s also faster and less messy than traditional mass concrete underpinning and is capable of bearing high loads.

Finally, there’s the piled raft approach. Piled raft foundations are required when an entire building needs to be underpinned, when foundations can’t be accessed or where soil conditions aren’t suitable for any other method. Piles are placed into the ground and needle beams are installed to help bear the load. A ring beam links the needles together and the structure is then filled with concrete.

When does a house need underpinning?

Cracked walls, ceilings or flooring are the tell-tale signs that you may need to have all or part of your home underpinned. Diagonal cracks, or those that reach a quarter of an inch or larger, are classic symptoms of faulty foundations, or problematic ground conditions. More severe warning signs are walls beginning to buckle. Underpinning, either using the mass concrete method or any of the piling techniques outlined above, can help to remedy these problems.

While underpinning is usually associated with foundation problems, it can also be required if you’re planning to add another floor to a building, or if it needs to stand up to increased load-bearing requirements.

The qualifications your foundation, piling or underpinning professional needs

Foundations and piling or underpinning will almost always require the expertise of a structural engineer. They will be able to advise on load bearing considerations, as well as the most appropriate technique to use (taking ground and soil conditions into account). Choose an experienced professional who holds chartered status from the Institution of Structural Engineers.

The groundworkers carrying out your excavation work should also be experienced, though they won’t need formal accreditation. A diploma, City and Guilds qualification or evidence of completing an apprenticeship is always helpful, but ultimately you should look for a proven track record of delivering groundwork services to a high standard and complete customer satisfaction.

Planning permission for foundation, piling or underpinning work

How and where you lay foundations will be determined by the planning permission you’ve been granted. This will be decided by your local planning authority, and unless an unforeseen issue crops up you’ll need to stick closely to what you’ve been given permission for.

When it comes to underpinning, you won’t require planning permission to remedy a fault with your foundations. The only exception here is a listed building, which may have certain limitations.

Insurance for foundation, piling or underpinning work

It’s crucial that your professional holds public liability insurance, to cover your property against damage. Such is the importance of this work, most structural engineers will also hold professional indemnity insurance, protecting them in case anything goes wrong with the services they’ve provided.

Questions you should ask your foundation, piling or underpinning professional

  • For standard foundations, which method would they use (and why)?
  • Will they be using a strip or trenchfill foundation?
  • For underpinning, which technique would they advise on (and why)?
  • For piling, what is the most cost-effective option available?
  • Can they provide a warranty (or do they have professional indemnity insurance) to cover their work?

JJ Walker property development. All trade contractors

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Keith on 5/8/2024

Everything done superbly well due to the efforts of Taylor. Kept us advised at all stages of the job. Would recommend unreservedly.

Five Star Construction is a family run business with the aim to provide affordable handyman and development works. We are full insured and all our operatives are fully trained for the work we carry out. Our friendly team are awaiting your call

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Thomas on 30/4/2024

Good value Very profession Quick and tidy workman Would definitely use them again. Regards Thomas

Sol.Co avatar

Sol.Co

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

Hi, I’m Luke, the founding member of Sol.Co- Structural outdoor landscaping company. I have been a self employed builder and fully qualifed bricklayer for the last 15 years. Although bricklaying, stonework and paving are my speciality, I do have a really wide skill set. Please see my gallery for examples. I have been fortunate enough to gain building experience all over the world in Australia, Portugal, parts of Asia and the UK. I enjoy working closely with customers and offer a bespoke service for all building needs. Over the last few years I have begun focusing my work towards garden building design. I enjoy working on outdoor spaces as they offer opportunities for creativity without the limitations of planning restrictions. It is also high impact work. A garden can be changed a lot in just the space of a week or two. I appreciate the importance of listening to customers carefully, adding suggestions from previous designs and my own experience as needed. I am happy to put references forward if required. Thanks for taking the time to view my profile.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Alan on 18/4/2025

Luke is very professional in all stages of the work he carried out. His quote for removing old decking and replacing it with a paved patio was very detailed and reasonable. He kept me informed at every stage of the work. When he finished laying down the patio he left the area clean and tidy. I can honestly say that I am really impressed with the finished job and have no hesitation in recommending Luke of Sol.Co to anyone wanting similar work doing.

Renovation Company With over 13 years of Renovation experience Gardens Renovation Exterior Renovation For more details, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull star
Reviewed by Ash on 16/11/2024

Timewaster

E&F BUILD avatar

E&F BUILD

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

At E&F Build Ltd, we believe that every home should be a perfect reflection of its owners. With over 10 years of professional experience, we take pride in our craftsmanship and unwavering commitment to quality. Our team values integrity, transparency, and professionalism, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience for every client. From the first consultation to the final touches, we’re dedicated to bringing your vision to life with care and the expertise needed, treating your home like our own!

G.I. Build avatar

G.I. Build

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

Dedicated to our craft. We cover all aspects of building work including: - home extentions - renovations - conversions - plumbing and heating - kitchens - roofing - all general building work

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Mike on 29/4/2022

Gary and his team are very professional and did an excellent job. Gary takes a great pride in his work and does all the preparation necessary to ensure a smooth and efficient job. Had extra work done re rendering, driveway and patio as their work was so good. Would recommend

E SAINT GEORGE LTD avatar

E SAINT GEORGE LTD

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

E SAINT GEORGE Ltd is a London & Essex based construction company. We specialise in all aspects of Home Improvements and strive to provide excellent work in order to achieve each individual clients vision. Our Customer Focused Service, ensures that we Communicate-Resolve-Produce superb tailor made projects. E SAINT GEORGE Ltd has an outstanding track record for delivering projects on Time and on Budget. All of our surveys are thoroughly analysed and concisely priced. Our pledge is to deliver all clients with Flat-Rate Costs for all of our contracted services. At E SAINT GEORGE Ltd, we value our highly-skilled team members as the core ingredient to completing every project successfully. HOME IMPROVEMENT SERVICES: - Kitchen Installations - Bathroom Renovations - Flooring (Laminate/Wood) - Tiling - Painting & Decorating - Structural Engineering & Design Services BUILDING WORK SERVICES: - Loft & Basement Conversions - Extensions (Single/Double) - Rendering / Plastering - Patio & Driveway Installations - Gardening & Landscaping - Gas Safe Services - Electrical Services (NICEIC) - Handy Man Services

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by neil on 26/7/2024

Endrit and his team were wonderful to work with - friendly and professional and nothing was too much trouble for them, despite me changing aspects of the kitchen renovation and install during the process. They went above and beyond to ensure that everything was perfect and that I was happy with all aspects. My new kitchen looks amazing and I can't recommend Endrit and his team highly enough - I have already recommended E Saint George to friends and will be getting them back to install my bathroom.

C & N Constructions is a well-established company offering construction and landscaping services for both residential and commercial clients. Our faith: We believe in open and honest communication and shared goals which will generate greater continuity in workload and thereby provide sustained improvements in quality, efficiency & delivery. Our mission: To safely deliver any project, any time, in any environment for the benefit of our customers, shareholders, employees and the communities we serve. Company vision: C&N Constructions is committed to building long-term relationships based on integrity, performance, value, and client satisfaction. We will continue to meet the changing needs of our clients with our quality services delivered by the most qualified people. Get in touch and we can start asap! We offer free and no obligation project estimate.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by John on 29/6/2025

The job was to cut back a severely overgrown patch of garden. Chris & his team, Adrian & Cosmin, gave me a competitive quote, after coming to visit the site to assess what needed to be done. They started next day and completed the job quickly and to my complete satisfaction. The site was cleaned up & all waste taken away. I will definitely use them again and strongly recommend them.

Quigley's avatar

Quigley's

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

Trusted local builders. Many work undertaken and all completed. Extentions, Bathrooms, Kitchens and all other aspects In building construction.

Aspray South West Thames manage property damage insurance claims. We act on behalf of the policyholder, negotiation the claim with the insurance company, then project manage the reinstatement works from start to finish.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Nathaniel on 4/4/2018

Job done professionally and in a timely manner. Excellent Service.

Elevations UK avatar

Elevations UK

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

Elevations welcomes you here to explore and discover our services making sure your current or future projects are achievable and in trusted, experienced hands. Providing a hassle free, honest and transparent service with our one goal one vision outlook. Trading for 17 years we have built a great customer base base within the midlands and beyond. Please explore our portfolio also our website below for further information.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Cecily on 23/5/2025

Darryl and team have done an outstanding job. Came early and prepared the entire hall stairs and landing. All doors, handles and light fittings covered. They worked hard all day and were very meticulous about everything. Completed the job to a very high standard and cleaned up, before they left on day 2. Worked late to complete the job. Very happy with the result and would definitely recommend to friends and family

Eurocenter - Online Ltd avatar

Eurocenter - Online Ltd

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

We are one of the best building and renovation company in London since 2011. Our experience taken over many years and different architects helping us to provide a service meeting the highest quality standards in every detail, making our homes and city beautiful...

EAGLE SERVICE avatar

EAGLE SERVICE

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

My name’s is John and I’m the owner of EAGLE SERVICE PROPERTY MAINTENANCE EAGLE SERVICE is a Company based in Bournemouth,providing all aspects of building maintenance and offering a friendly, reliable and honest service. I have worked in the building & property maintenance sector for the last 18years, dealing with most household jobs from the minor (electric,plumbing,carpentry ) to complete renovation of flats and houses. If it's a job that you can't do yourself or need advice don't hesitate to get in touch with me!!

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Ian on 19/2/2025

Excellent communication and work!Took the time to explain potential problems and solutions before taking the job. Spent a lot of time helping us decide on what we wanted, organised ordering everything and even offered to be there when they were delivered. Most impressively for me was he was able to organise the whole job via messages at unusual times due to me being a shift worker and even worked weekends to limit the interruption in my life! Probably the best tradesman I've ever used! HIGHLY RECOMMEND????

TESY AYCE KIERAN avatar

TESY AYCE KIERAN

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

Tudor Vlad avatar

Tudor Vlad

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

Family company who started trading in 2013 .Our mission is to impact lives, offer our greatest services and advice to homeowners and to develop ongoing relationship for the future. In an ever more tough environment which is governed by the big companies we still believe that developing a good relationship with people is paramount. We always give 100% in order to deliver big or small projects on time with a great sense of duty and responsibility. This being said we are here to offer out our five star services to you in a way that we would like any business regardless of their domain to provide . Many thanks and God bless you. Tudor

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Beverley on 25/4/2025

I cannot recommend this company highly enough. Tudor & Darius did a brilliant job re-decorating my 2 bed flat, moving furniture around as needed without any fuss. They work quickly and meticulously neatly & cleanly. Tudor gave good advice on what type of paint to use on my woodwork, I didn't want it to look too shiny so chose eggshell. Whilst here they also sanded and re-hung my front door to prevent it from sticking. I would definitely use them again.

we are experience refurbishment contractors. we are reputable and reliable builders, established since 2010 and over 20years experience in building trade. using our skill and materials, we are eager to ensure that our customers are completely satisfied.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Vinoth on 5/3/2025

Did not received the quote / response after sent the details.

Check out our face book page toplinesprayers uk !!!!

Hangloss avatar

Hangloss

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

We provide guarantee quality job with amazing pricing for more then 7 years, Hangloss providing different type of design paintings for same pricing too

Latest homeowner review
full starfull star
Reviewed by Susan on 4/12/2024
Express Services avatar

Express Services

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

We at Express Services painting-decorating-tiling and flooring provide quality professional and affordable work carried out and aim to keep the clients happy and satisfied with our work.

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Cristiano on 8/12/2023

Hard working, honest and trustworthy. Good quality work and willing to go the extra mile.

Rated Peoples - EM avatar

Rated Peoples - EM

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

Here is a description about my company testing 2 updating just testing

Latest homeowner review
full starfull starfull starfull starfull star
Reviewed by Rated on 29/10/2024

Test without the bad word

Post your job for free

app-icon

Get our app for homeowners

  • Send messages and get notifications from tradespeople
  • Add photos to get more accurate quotes
  • View tradespeople's profiles