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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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CFL Joinery & Construction Fully qualified Level 3 Site Joiner/Carpenter (City & Guilds) with many years of hands-on experience in the trade. At CFL Joinery & Construction, we combine expert knowledge, precision craftsmanship, and a genuine passion for delivering high-quality results on every project. Due to continued demand from returning clients, CFL Joinery is expanding to provide a wider range of construction services, including electrical installation, plumbing & gas, bricklaying, and more — offering a reliable, one-stop solution for your project needs. All work is completed to a high professional standard, often at competitive prices that beat previous quotes. We pride ourselves on being friendly, reliable, and approachable, and we always do our best to accommodate urgent or time-sensitive work. For enquiries, advice, or quotations, please get in touch by phone or email — we’re always happy to help
Arrived on time and did an excellent job would highly recommend Chis
Norfolk Designer Driveways
Groundwork / Foundations
Hi Norfolk designer driveways is a family run business and can undertake all types off driveways
GARAGE CONVERSION SPECIALISTS with a vast portfolio and customer base, our company has been established 12 years. Fully insured, all employees and sub contractors cscs trained/qualified. All works completed to a high standard at competitive prices
I am very pleased with the work done by JMR. The tradesmen were pleasant and happy to make any changes or additions to the original plans, with the approval of James (the boss). Nic did an amazing job of the plastering, and Tristan applied his many skills to the build. The estimate was reasonable, and was also the final price charged for the original plan. James charged a fair price for the extra work I requested, and was open to discussion on any aspect of the build. A job well done.
K&M BUILDING SYSTEM is a business that specialises in all aspects of building. From extensions to driveways, kitchens, bathrooms or demolition. No job is too big or too small. We are fully covered with public liability insurance giving us and our customers peace of mind when carrying out your project. We always aim to complete your job on time to a very high standard with very competitive prices. We provide building services across Edinburgh – 7 days a week.
Erisure LTD , we are a family owning business running for more than 6 years. Our home improvement business is born from knowing exactly what you want in your home or business places . Our business aim is to fill your home and business places with love and comforts . Here is Just to say few of the many services we offer - We do total interior refurbishments for kitchens, bathrooms, floors , walls , ceilings, Tilings and more . Painting and decorating is also one of our core and passionate services. We improved , painted and decorated hundreds of homes so far.
Desali delivered an exceptional service. The job was certianly not straight forward but given his persistence and creative thinking he managed to provide exactly what I needed. I would recommend him as a plumber to anyone looking to get a reliable, dedicated service for any plumbing related issues or projects. He's a top bloke
Keep it Klean offer a wide range of internal and external cleaning. We also cover a wide range of general building and maintenance: Driveway/patios, Roofing, Fencing, tree felling and clearances. We are a professional, reliable and honest company.
Swift and helpful
Weardale Construction have been in business for over 16 years. Our main works include extensions, loft conversions, sun rooms and conservatories, We are a team of 8 covering all services without the need to sub contract out any works
Hi I'm Chris from Chris Seddon roofing.i do all types of roofing I specialise in reroofs we also do facials soffits gutters flat to pitched conversion chimney removals and we work all throughout Lancs and Cheshire I do all the work myself with labourers.all reroofs come with a 5 year guarantee. And we have full liability cover also. Finance can be arranged to cover your reroof.
Trent roofing is a father and son business trading standards approved. qualified in bricklaying, roof tiling and much more We are a 24 hour emergency call out full liability insurance and a five star rating from small jobs to large jobs we have over 25 years experience
Prompt, professional and obviously very experienced. I was delighted with the excellent quality of work and willingness to respond so quickly. Would highly recommend!
M S Building Services is a Worcestershire based building company with over 20 years of experience, proudly serving clients across Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, and Birmingham. We specialise in all aspects of groundwork, building and landscaping, delivering high-quality results tailored to your needs. No job is too big or too small – from minor improvements to large-scale projects, we bring the same dedication, expertise, and attention to detail every time.
Mark was very professional and reliable. Excellent standard of work, left everything clean and tidy on completion of the job. We are very pleased and would highly recommend them.
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
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.
We offer a comprehensive range of building services to residential and commercial customer. With a professional team of experienced trades men such as plumbers,electricians,decorators and carpenters.We cover all aspects of work from start to finish.
Jan and David were immediately available to refurbish our downstairs toilet. Was very polite and did a lot of other stuffs for us as well. It's looks a look better than before and we are happy with it.
jarad London Construction Company have partnered with homeowners, designers and architects to deliver unrivalled construction, renovation and refurbishment services across London and the Home Counties.
job is done very quickly.
Time served joiner of 36 years being in the joinery/ kitchen fitting trade no job to big or to small all aspects of joinery from bespoke to manufacturing from external doors to internal door frames door linings architrave skirting boards laminate flooring but and scribe worktops from laminate worktops to oak work tops free quotes was film by mark miller company installing a kitchen for his TV program dream kitchens and bathrooms for channel 5
Hi,my name is vathi and i am a hardworking, well-organized and experienced handyman with a keen eye for details,physical stamina and apt in problem-solving.Moreover,i perform various repairs and maintenance tasks, including appliance installation, routine landscaping on the grounds and carpentry
beautiful work done installing engineered wood. initially planned for installation of engineered wood by floating it. had to switch over to gluing due to the product i had got. still ended up completing 2 days worth of work in a single day. will definitely hire again.
We are a family run business priding ourselves in quality workmanship at affordable prices customer satisfaction is guaranteed we cover all aspects of roofing gardening and general property maintenance with over 20 years experience all quotations are free
Carl and the team undertook a full landscape, fencing and decking project. It wasn't a small task, with hidden tree stumps, heavily overgrown garden and uneven levels. The team were brilliant and had the whole garden fully landscaped, including a new fence, roll on lawn, deck and a few other additional tasks completed within a week. Team turned up on time every day and worked solidly to get the job finished within the quoted timeframe. Would strongly recommend Root2Roof for the works they completed.
Excellent, efficient job and area was left incredibly clean and tidy at the end. Very good communication throughout the quoting and arranging process. Highly recommended.
Brickbuilds
Groundwork / Foundations
Welcome to Brick Builds! We are a well-established building company in the South West with over 17 years of experience in both traditional and contemporary building techniques. Brick Builds offers a comprehensive service from design to completion, working closely with our clients to provide solutions tailored to their needs. Rest assured, all our tradesmen are professional, courteous, and respectful of both property and clients at all times. We look forward to working with you on your project.
Transforming spaces into stunning havens, Clean Lines Paving is your go-to partner for all things construction and landscaping in North East London, Enfield, and beyond. With a rich legacy spanning over 20 years, our craftsmanship speaks volumes, whether it's crafting bespoke patios, driveways, fencing, or foundations. But we're more than just surfaces; we're your trusted allies in home transformation. From seamless garage and kitchen conversions to elegant one-story extensions and inviting porches, we bring your vision to life with precision and flair. At Clean Lines Paving, we understand that every project is unique, just like every home. That's why we offer a diverse range of designs to perfectly complement your space, ensuring that every inch reflects your style and personality. When it comes to property maintenance and repairs, trust in our expertise to keep your investment in pristine condition for years to come.
Very pleasant, understanding and efficient. Quote as would be expected for the job. I’m very happy with this company.
THE GCD GROUP LTD
Groundwork / Foundations
GCD Developments is a multi-disciplinary property practice, covering property development, project management, architecture and interior design across London and United Kingdom. Whilst every project is unique, the philosophy behind each is unwavering: at GCD we strive to craft environments which are not just beautiful, but faultlessly functional.
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