Find foundation, underpinning and piling experts
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?
Family business specialising in all aspect of building work full refurbishment and renovations. We bring over 20years of trade experience and pride ourselves on being professional and reliable. We deliver excellent service and high quality workmanship. renovation.
Rickie did an excellent job painting our small 2 bed house throughout. And finished the job earlier than expected which was a bonus. Would definitely recommend!
'%3e%3cpath%20fill-rule='evenodd'%20clip-rule='evenodd'%20d='M12.5%2020.392a1%201%200%2001-.54.888l-5.274%202.73a1%201%200%2001-1.435-1.109l1.494-6.588a1%201%200%2000-.306-.964l-4.723-4.254c-.65-.586-.287-1.666.585-1.74l6.105-.514a1%201%200%2000.846-.629L12.5%200v20.392z'%20fill='%23F7DB34'%20/%3e%3c/g%3e%3c/svg%3e){kind=small}
hello I have 15 year in the trade I am a multi skilled tradesmen who takes pride in what I do I love my job I work on a basis you not happy with my work you don't pay simple as that I am fully insured and vetted
Top class service really friendly people ..love our flooring thank you very much we will use again.
CRM Unlimited Test 2
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
I'm the guy in the back, I made a name for myself in commercial construction but as times change i am now only doing domestic work
Good job
Rolly
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
I am a local tradesman with 25 years of experience in the building and plastering industry. I have a great, reliable team behind me who are not only friendly and professional but will also finish every job to the highest standard possible.
Really happy with the work carried out. Any issues I raised were dealt with and any snagging I needed addressing were resolved. Would recommend Luke and his company and use him again.
Joiint Construction
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
JoiintConstruction is a Hampshire-based construction company, backed by a team of highly skilled craftsmen and professionals dedicated to delivering projects of any size from concept to completion. Whether you need assistance with design, construction, or both, we ensure a seamless process and top-quality results.
Welcome to Hampshire Premium Handyman Services, where expertise meets dedication. With over 12 years of experience, we're committed to delivering top-notch craftsmanship and exceptional service to every customer. As a licensed professional with a degree in electrical systems, we take your works seriously, ensuring safety and efficiency in every task we undertake. From minor repairs to full-scale renovations, trust us to handle your home improvement needs with skill and care. Contact us today to experience the difference quality and experience can make.
Good communication and jobs completed as quoted and to a good standard. We will be using them again!
London City Roofing & Renovations ltd is an established and trusted company with over 20 years experience, offering all aspects of roofing and building services. We are based in Wembley (London) serving all of London and surrounding areas within 100 miles.? We pride ourselves on our punctuality and quality workmanship, offering a prompt and professional service with experienced and expert staff. We guarantee a friendly, clean and tidy service with all work being to the highest standard. We are fully insured and all work is guaranteed. All our tradesmen are experienced and qualified in their respective trades. We specialise in the following: Roofing services: UPVC Fascias & Soffits Cladding Guttering Bargeboards Flat Roofing Chimney Repairs Tile & Slating Work Re-Roofs Lead Work General Building Work Fibre Glass Roofing Double Glazing Building services: Home improvements Kitchen Fitting Bathroom Fitting Extensions Loft Conversions Garage Conversions Bricklaying Plastering Comprehensive driveway and paving service, including: Driveways Drop Kerbs Patios Paths Block Paving Concreting Tarmacing Car Port We offer free quotes
John and the team did an outstanding job. It was easy to work with John and he was very knowledgeable, and provided very sensible advice. Other people quoted work which was over-the-top or wouldn't have solved the problem but John got right to the issue in a no-nonsense way. Quality of the work undertaken was very good, considering the age of the building and complexity. Would recommend.
Hello, My name is Michael, the owner of m p e building services est 2000, I am a fully qualified N.V.Q joiner and builder, time served craftsman who specialises in woodwork, wet trades, plastering, tiling, and brickwork/stonework including Indian stone and concrete paving, I have over 25 years experience in the construction industry, and I have all the skills and knowledge to complete your project, I am reliable friendly and honest. The photos are of my personal works which are displayed on this page, are just a tiny collection of the many successful projects I have completed for my many happy customers over the years, I have a full portfolio of photos of building projects that I have completed and lots of real excellent customer references and personal recommendations of my business, that I can provide and can show on appointments when quoting for new customers.
First class job at good price I will be using this company again
Eagle eye building LTD in an established, family run business with a wealth of knowledge & experience. Taking pride & care of all of your building needs. We cover all aspects of building and no job is too big or small. For more information, or a free quote, please feel free to get in touch with us.
Great customer care and excellent standard of work. Delighted, thanks
A & L Ever Ready Cleaning & Building Maintenance LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
I've been working in the maintenance Industry for the past 19 years and i've worked for 6 different councils in London, I've been trading since 2012 with this company.
Sebastien and his colleague came and definitely delivered! They cleared my garden from all the weed, overgrown grass and thornbushes so well I forgot how big my garden was. I could see how meticulous and careful they were with their work and also cleaned up after themselves before they left the premises. 5 stars all around!
Full property renovations, extensions, loft conversions, outbuildings & more.
Absolutely useless made our life a misery never book these had a bathroom fitted horrible job then when it leak and destroyed my front room ceiling trust when I say don't use them .
Property Solutions LTD
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
Property Solutions Ltd Every Roofing Solution At Property Solutions Ltd, we are dedicated to delivering superior roofing solutions. With our wealth of experience, we have become the go-to roofing company for both residential and commercial clients. Our team of skilled professionals takes pride in their craftsmanship, ensuring that every project is completed with precision and attention to detail. From minor repairs to complete roof installations, we use only the highest quality materials to guarantee long-lasting results. Customer satisfaction is at the heart of our business. We strive to provide excellent service, transparent communication, and fair pricing, building strong and trusting relationships with our clients. When you choose Property Solutions Ltd, you can rest assured that your property is in safe hands. Let us protect your investment with reliable and top-notch roofing solutions. Contact us today for all your roofing needs!
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.
Even though I did not carry out the job in the end , this company was very helpful and responded to all my questions. And gave me his honest opinions.
hi my names Chris. I am a very handy person with things that needs doing around the house. and I charge very fair prices. We cover most areas from roofing, gardening, plastering, some plumbing, painting, almost anything you need do we have you covered so get intouch for a free quote
WELCOME TO D.D BUILDING AND LANDSCAPING A small family team who can provide lots of services: PAINTING AND DECORATING TILING, FLOORING, PLASTERING RENDERING Astro Turf Block Paving Block Paving Driveways Brick Pavers Brick Wall Bricklaying Contractors Complete Design Concrete Driveways Construction Works Decking Driveway Repairs Driveways Fencing Full Garden Design Garden Buildings Garden Cleared Garden Fences Garden Landscaping Ideas Garden Lighting Garden Maintenance Garden Makeovers Garden Walling Garden Walls Garden clearance and tidy ups Gravel Driveways Ground Maintenance Hard Landscaping Home Extensions Home Improvement Landscaping Project Large Garden Natural Stone Patio New Driveways New Turf Outdoor Room Patio Design Patio Repairs Patios Paving Slabs Picket Fencing Property Maintenance Resin Bonded Driveway Resin Bound Driveways Retaining Walls Smaller Garden Turfing We specialise in all types of hard landscaping such as driveways, patio installations, garden walls, outdoor kitchen, ponds, artificial grass and much more. We also carry out soft landscaping, create planting schemes and offer a full Landscape Design service. Insurance work is undertaken, we have £1m public liability insurance and we accept all major credit cards.
We are a family company & pride ourselves in providing a professional, honest , reliable & courteous service. With 40 years experience in the building industry. All aspects of building & joinery work are covered & all work is carried out by qualified tradesmen. We are new to Rated People & are keen to get started so we can build up some great reviews.
Highly recommend What a fantastic team Gary and Lewis are. Not only did they do a great job in our utility room, but they were on time, polite, courteous and incredibly tidy. Gary also arranged any subcontractors needed and the job was amazing value for money. We have already booked Gary in for other work in the New Year.
At Pop Building Services we provide professional services in construction, painting, tiling,carpentry, and gardening, backed by over 3 years of industry experience. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship and attention to detail ensures outstanding results for every project. • Proven Expertise: Over 3 years delivering reliable and high-quality solutions. • Comprehensive Services: A full range of construction and home improvement offerings. • Customer-Centric Approach: Your satisfaction is our top priority. Partner with Pop Building Services for professionalism, precision, and results that exceed expectations. Let us bring your vision to life!
Really polite young man and friendly. Done an amazing job in such short time too. Thank you, I will definitely be recommending you to friends and family.
Brandon Green Homes
Underpinning / Piling / Foundations
started business as parternership in 2007, we grown our portfolio from 2 houses to 86 units today, we also helped over 100 homeowners and 25 landlords including housing association, we help from a full consultancy package to build yur dreams to even help with leasing to our corporate contacts if you wish to invest. featured on HOMES UNDER THE HAMMER, we pride our selves in job well done, we always make sure we start projects within 2 to 3 weeks from time we agree and we always deliver our projects on time; we make the impossible a luxury and affordable possible while we take all the stress away; BGH combines technical expertise with exceptional customer service, ensuring every client benefits from cutting-edge technologies tailored to their home needs. with industry leading certifications and proven track record, BGH is a top choice for those seeking efficient, reliable and successful renovations We ate fully accredited Offer full guarantees and insurances including insurance backed guarantee and deposit guarantee We are specialist in new build, extensions, heavy refurbs, hmo and luxury conversions
'%20rx='20'%20/%3e%3cg%20fill='%23FFF'%3e%3cpath%20d='M29.376%2016.914c-.555%200-1.006.454-1.006%201.013v37.416c0%20.578.472%201.014%201.097%201.014h34.109a1.007%201.007%200%200%200%20.972-.83%201.012%201.012%200%200%200-.161-.76l-6.446-9.416c-.375-.548-.567-1.085-.586-1.642-.034-.977.516-1.952%201.402-2.483%204.8-2.878%205.808-7.575%205.808-11.009%200-7.335-5.925-13.303-13.207-13.303H29.376ZM63.594%2059.75H29.467c-2.505%200-4.467-1.936-4.467-4.408V17.927c0-2.43%201.963-4.408%204.376-4.408h21.982c9.14%200%2016.577%207.49%2016.577%2016.698%200%205.879-2.46%2010.687-6.944%2013.607l6.17%209.017c1.37%202.002.868%204.752-1.12%206.132a4.336%204.336%200%200%201-2.44.778h-.007Z'%20/%3e%3cpath%20d='M38.767%2027.797c0-.749.603-1.357%201.347-1.357h6.427c3.979%200%206.426%201.72%206.426%205.099v.123c0%203.132-2.325%205.098-6.365%205.098h-3.848l-3.985%203.998V36.76h-.002v-8.963'%20/%3e%3c/g%3e%3cpath%20fill='%23FFF'%20fill-rule='nonzero'%20d='M18.176%2069.2h2.156v3.878h3.976V69.2h2.156V79h-2.156v-3.934h-3.976V79h-2.156v-9.8Zm16.428%207.98c.43%200%20.826-.08%201.19-.238a2.72%202.72%200%200%200%20.931-.658c.257-.28.457-.604.602-.973a3.21%203.21%200%200%200%20.217-1.183V74.1c0-.42-.072-.817-.217-1.19-.145-.373-.35-.7-.616-.98a2.96%202.96%200%200%200-.945-.665%202.873%202.873%200%200%200-1.19-.245c-.439%200-.838.08-1.197.238-.36.159-.667.378-.924.658s-.457.604-.602.973a3.21%203.21%200%200%200-.217%201.183v.028c0%20.42.072.817.217%201.19a2.959%202.959%200%200%200%201.554%201.645c.36.163.758.245%201.197.245Zm-.028%201.988a5.343%205.343%200%200%201-2.086-.399%205.187%205.187%200%200%201-1.645-1.078%204.823%204.823%200%200%201-1.078-1.596%205.029%205.029%200%200%201-.385-1.967V74.1c0-.7.13-1.356.392-1.967a5.075%205.075%200%200%201%201.085-1.61%205.05%205.05%200%200%201%201.652-1.092%205.395%205.395%200%200%201%202.093-.399c.756%200%201.451.133%202.086.399a5.187%205.187%200%200%201%201.645%201.078c.462.453.821.985%201.078%201.596.257.611.385%201.267.385%201.967v.028c0%20.7-.13%201.356-.392%201.967a5.075%205.075%200%200%201-1.085%201.61%205.05%205.05%200%200%201-1.652%201.092%205.395%205.395%200%200%201-2.093.399Zm8.14-9.968h2.324l2.576%204.144%202.576-4.144h2.324V79h-2.142v-6.398l-2.758%204.186h-.056l-2.73-4.144V79h-2.114v-9.8Zm13.152%200h7.392v1.918h-5.25v1.988h4.62v1.918h-4.62v2.058h5.32V79h-7.462v-9.8Zm13.866%209.94a6.49%206.49%200%200%201-2.198-.385%205.817%205.817%200%200%201-1.96-1.183l1.274-1.526c.448.364.908.653%201.379.868.471.215.987.322%201.547.322.448%200%20.796-.082%201.043-.245a.771.771%200%200%200%20.371-.679v-.028a.85.85%200%200%200-.077-.371.778.778%200%200%200-.294-.301%203.079%203.079%200%200%200-.602-.28c-.257-.093-.59-.191-1.001-.294a12.201%2012.201%200%200%201-1.344-.406%203.787%203.787%200%200%201-1.022-.553%202.237%202.237%200%200%201-.651-.819c-.154-.327-.231-.733-.231-1.218v-.028c0-.448.084-.852.252-1.211.168-.36.404-.67.707-.931a3.183%203.183%200%200%201%201.085-.602c.42-.14.882-.21%201.386-.21a5.86%205.86%200%200%201%201.981.322%205.743%205.743%200%200%201%201.659.924l-1.12%201.624a7.1%207.1%200%200%200-1.288-.707%203.292%203.292%200%200%200-1.26-.259c-.42%200-.735.082-.945.245-.21.163-.315.366-.315.609v.028c0%20.159.03.296.091.413.06.117.17.222.329.315s.376.182.651.266c.275.084.623.182%201.043.294.495.13.936.278%201.323.441.387.163.714.36.98.588.266.229.467.497.602.805.135.308.203.677.203%201.106v.028c0%20.485-.089.917-.266%201.295a2.66%202.66%200%200%201-.742.952%203.353%203.353%200%200%201-1.134.588%204.924%204.924%200%200%201-1.456.203Z'%20/%3e%3c/g%3e%3c/svg%3e)
Get our app for homeowners
- Send messages and get notifications from tradespeople
- Add photos to get more accurate quotes
- View tradespeople's profiles