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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

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.

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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?

"From Tidy-Ups to Transformations" - Building and Landscaping that lasts the test of time **One of our teams has just completed the YOTEL Edinburgh design and build project on Queen Street which you can go to observe for yourself. To be trusted by large commercial corporations and deliver a high standard of work in a time sensitive manner, we will surely be able to deliver a project you will be satisfied with! With over 30 years of landscaping and building experience enjoyed throughout the company, you no longer have to compromise quality. Be the envy of your neighbours and call the reputable company to get it done right the first time. We offer a full design and build landscaping function as well as a subscription service on fortnightly (or monthly) garden tidy maintenance as well. Not only can we transform your space, but keep it looking new year round! With highly skilled staff and constant support a text away, we are here to make your service experience as pleasureable as your new extension, patio, driveway, or fence is going to look.

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Reviewed by Donald on 7/11/2025
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Henderson & Kent Builders

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

Henderson & Kent Builders Ltd provide an excellent service for all aspects of building works covering Hull and surrounding areas, weather your looking for full new builds, extensions or renovation works were more than happy to provide a no obligation quote.

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HEX360 LTD

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

HEX360 was founded in 2015 by Craig Lewis with the solid foundation that a degree in construction management provides. Before launching HEX360, Craig’s former life saw him working at Princess Yachts, where he founded his skills and acquired his particular attention to detail – but if you’ve reached this page, you probably aren’t interested in hearing Craig’s life story… you’re really interested in finding out what makes HEX360 different to all the other construction companies out there. So read on and discover our difference. Working with most construction companies can feel a bit like finding your way in the dark – you just don’t know where to go to get the information you need. The stereotypical construction company that makes matters so confusing and complicated that everything they say goes over your head is, unfortunately, not just a myth. They’re out there, and they’re confusing clients as we speak. So, it’s no wonder that so many people put off their project or come to a grinding halt partway through – after all, it can all feel just too overwhelming. Luckily, HEX360 is here to change your perceptions and prove that not all construction companies are the same. We’re dedicated to working with you, not for you, and that means taking a collaborative approach right from the get-go. With our 8-step process, we’ll clearly outline every stage of your project so you won’t feel overwhelmed, and thanks to our use of in-house project management software, you’ll have complete transparency for every aspect of your project. We are committed to flexibility, accessibility, and approachability so your project can run smoothly, whether you’re updating your kitchen, renovating or extending your entire home or developing a large commercial property. You’re more than a number on a spreadsheet to us, and we never bite off more than we can chew. Our attention and efforts are solely dedicated towards you and your project during your time with us. Unlike with some construction companies, once we begin work on your project we don’t simply move on to our next. We provide industry leading account management during the full life cycle of the project, meaning you aren’t forgotten about once you sign on the dotted line.

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Reviewed by terrry on 11/4/2017

i would like to add this group of workmen are the best i have seen for a long time.they are prepared to go above and beyond to ensure a professional and efficient project is completed. Above all they are honest ,trustworthy and obliging in every way. Highly recommended.

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1st Rate Roofing

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

1st Rate Roofing is a small company that values reliability and craftsmanship over anything else. We are polite and always put you first, making sure you understand whats being done and how we are going to do it. We always charge a fair price and believe you'll think so to. We provide free no obligation estimates. We are very responsive to emails and calls!

We are a family run business with experience in all aspects of Building, roofing & home improvements. working around Newport and the surrounding area's. We provide a fast and professional service at competitive rates. No job too small, call now for a free quotation, partner to ( shield roofing specialists south wales)

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Reviewed by Jennifer on 22/10/2025
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R&D Construction

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

R&D CONSTRUCTION IS A PROFESSIONAL DESIGN AND BUILDING COMPANY SPECIALISING IN ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT FOR RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES, ALSO A WIDE RANGE OF CONSTRUCTION, DEVELOPMENTS AND REFURBISHMENTS. We Carry out all type of construction and to us no job is a small job and by that we mean we would be happy to take your various jobs in our hands. We provide the following list of the building services: New Build Property Refurbishment Loft Conversion House Extensions Flat Conversion Driveway & Patio Bricklaying & Re-pointing Kitchen & Bathroom Roofing & Guttering Plastering & Tiling Carpentry & Joinery Painting & Decorating Plumbing & Electrical Central Heating & Under Floor Heating Design We believe a great design is simple and not only how it feels or looks but also how it works. We provide Architectural and Interior Design and Engineering Services: Initial Concept Design Basic Drawings for Planning Application & Application Management Existing & Proposed Floor Plans, Elevations and Sections Site Plans and Block Plans (OS map/ Location Plan) Detailed Architectural Design 3D Concept and Visualisation Design Interior Furnishing, Materials & Fabrics Lighting Design Bills of Quantities (BOQ) 3D Interior Visualisation Design 3D Interior Visualisation Design Building Control package Drawings & Application Management

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Reviewed by Jade on 12/1/2026

Daniel was brilliant. He came quickly, and was determined to. get a tricky plumbing job (very hard to reach pipe) done. He even went out to get a part and stayed until the work was done. He was polite, hard working and a great communicator. Highly recommended!

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BJ Crossley

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

25 years carrying out an array of handyman/maintenance work, relaxed manner with care and attention to each job. Proactive communicator.

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Reviewed by Aggie on 16/12/2025

Great communication and excellent worksmanship. Highly recommended!

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TESY AYCE KIERAN

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

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Home Fixology LTD

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

Hello, and welcome to Home Fixology – your friendly neighbourhood home improvement experts! At Home Fixology, we don’t just fix homes; we build trust through a personal touch that turns every project into a unique journey. If you want to see our growing portfolio of reviews, you can check us out on UK TRUSTPILOT: Home Fixology We're on FACEBOOK too: homefixologyltd Services we provide: Roof restorations: Repairing and refurbishing roofs to improve their structural integrity and appearance. #ProPERLA #Renotec Wall coatings: Applying coatings or finishes to exterior walls to protect them from weather damage and enhance their aesthetics. #ProPERLA Driveway restorations: Repairing and refurbishing driveways to improve their appearance and durability. #Resiblock Flat roof services: Repairing or replacing flat roofs to prevent leaks and water damage. #FirestoneRubberRoof Render repairs: Fixing and maintaining render on exterior walls for structural integrity and aesthetic purposes. Loft insulation: Installing insulation in lofts or attics to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs. #SuperFOIL Damp proofing: Treating and preventing dampness and moisture issues in buildings to protect against structural damage and mould growth.

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Reviewed by Carol on 17/11/2024

The smallest details can make a real impact when it comes to designing a space, but only a true professional knows how to bring these details together to create a seamless design. That’s where Complete Kitchens And Renovations comes in. With over 35 years experience and a team of skilled tradesmen you'll be in safe hands. ? We work throughout the South-East providing bespoke home renovations and extensions tailored to our clients’ needs. ? From a small kitchen installation to a full house renovation, no job is too big or small.

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Reviewed by sandra on 28/3/2024

Very happy with result.

Hi :) I have a range of experience across the trade, with specialised expertise in the following areas,over 12 years: -in Drylining -in Carpentry - in refurbishing restaurants and houses. -Loft Conversions -House extensions After all that, I finally have the team, which we can do jobs from A to Z - Plumbing (gas safe certified) - Electrical (Certified) -Roofs -Loft Conversions -Extensions -Groundwork -Gardening -Fencing -Waste removal I'm happy to help across all jobs and answer any questions. Thanks for passing by, and I hope to hear from you soon :)

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Reviewed by John on 14/2/2025

Job done to very good quality but job did run over due to the Christmas period overall very happy

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NWL RENOVATIONS LTD

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

NORTH WEST LONDON RENOVATIONS is a well established, trustworthy, reliable and professional company. We serve Acton, Ealing, Hammersmith, Kilburn, Paddington, Brent, Westminster, Hampstead, West Hampstead, Primrose Hill and all surrounding areas of N, NW and Greater London. Our service is professional, caring, and high quality. Our customers rate us highly for our ability to stick to deadlines, and for the quality of our workmanship. We provide a professional service from the initial free quotation to the end professional finish. Our service is friendly, clean and tidy, and reliable. We consider no job as too large or too small and offer very competitive prices

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Reviewed by Nicholas on 2/2/2024

Had scaffolding up very quickly. Started job on time and finished in a week. Very impressive. Good communications and reasonable price.

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KEEN RESOURCES LTD

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

Keen Resources: Elevating Your Spaces for Years to Come Welcome to Keen Resources, your trusted partner in building and property maintenance solutions. Established in 2014 and proudly located in the vibrant North West London area, we are your go-to team for all your construction needs. At Keen Resources, we bring a wealth of experience to the table, with a family-run business that boasts a remarkable 25-year track record. We specialise in providing a wide range of services to Residential, Commercial, and Estate Agent clients, ensuring that every project is executed with the utmost precision and professionalism. Our dedicated team of experts covers a diverse spectrum of services, including: General Building: From the ground up, we craft solid foundations for your dreams to take shape. Roofing: Our experts ensure your property is protected from the elements with top-notch roofing solutions. Electrics: Safe and reliable electrical services to keep your property powered efficiently. Kitchen and Bathroom: Transforming these essential spaces into stunning, functional areas you'll love. Refurbishments: Breathing new life into tired spaces, making them vibrant and appealing. Plumbing: Efficient plumbing services to keep your property's water systems in excellent condition. Carpentry: Craftsmanship that adds character and functionality to your interiors. Tiling: Precision tiling work to enhance the aesthetics of your property. Painting and Decorating: Creating inviting and visually pleasing environments. Handymen (Multi-Skilled): Versatile experts ready to tackle any project with skill and efficiency. At Keen Resources, we are not just builders; we are partners in bringing your vision to life. We take immense pride in our commitment to delivering superior quality, meeting deadlines, and exceeding your expectations. Customer satisfaction is at the heart of everything we do. We believe that every project, big or small, deserves the same level of care and attention. With Keen Resources, you can trust that your project is in capable hands, and the end result will be nothing short of exceptional. Experience the difference with Keen Resources, where excellence in construction meets a passion for customer satisfaction. Contact us today and let's embark on a journey to turn your property dreams into reality.

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Reviewed by Helena on 8/11/2025

After a very log and unnecessarily complicated and long process to get any accurate information from, and when an appointment was finally scheduled - no one showed up, no one replied to messages and calls. Utterly unprofessional, using random contractors, and clearly down to luck - if any of the other reviews are even real.

I have been in the construction industry for over twenty years self employed and before that employed by others. I pride myself in giving good solid advice as well as producing a quality job which I’m proud of and that the customer expects. I am a Dulux Select Accredited Decorator and all work is guarenteed by Dulux for two years. I have Public Liability Insurance to the Value of £5m. I have been a Decorator since 1999 and take a pride in my work and take customers requirements very serious and aim to give them the benifit of many years experience. Plus as part of my business i employ a range of other skills including electrician plumber, roofers and builders etc.

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Reviewed by Barbara on 7/11/2023

Great communication from this trader from star to the end of the job. Even it wasn't Ivan completed job in person, he kept me informed and checked during the day if everything was all right. Plesent to discuss and negotiate. Many thanks!

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Erisure LTD

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

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.

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Reviewed by Sam on 18/11/2024

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

Over the years of being in the construction industry we pride ourselves in effectively carrying complete house renovations ,new kitchens and bathroom installations ,plastering, tilling, plumbing, painting and electrical works, consumer units,complete rewire, inspection and testing,and we Part P Registered under the NICEIC brand.

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Reviewed by Leo on 24/7/2020

Sylvester arranged and managed the refitting of my kitchen - plastering, plumbing, cabinets, tiling. Even Replacing joists and floorboards (I had a wood worm problem). We could not be happier with the result and Sylvesters accommodating attitude towards much unexpected/unplanned work all carried out within quoted timeframe. Could not rate him higher! As an electrician he refitted a few of our lights and provided a valid certificate for all work done. Very professional and tidy.

DM Handyman avatar

DM Handyman

Underpinning / Piling / Foundations

Handyman full property house maintenance includes softwood and hardwood door fitting all locks , window locks handles , MOULD damp moisture problems cleaning , painting decoration, garden trees branch cutting rubbish removal, fitting shelves tv brackets small fittings , small leaks taps drains radiators, blocked drains being kitchen waste drain , rat mouse control , wardrobe doors kitchen doors hinge tighten , fencing storm damage repairs no job too small reliable trustworthy fully qualified 40 years experience in the London areas

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Reviewed by Victoria on 13/10/2024

Dear Customer, We are a construction company with over 25 years experience. We undertake all aspects of building work, including new builds, extensions, lofts, total renovations, new bathroom and kitchens. All work guaranteed and certified for, GasSafe and NiCEiC approved on completion.

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Reviewed by John on 28/1/2026

We got Kingston Surrey Construction in to undertake a full ensuite refurbishment after too many leaks and drips over the years. They provided a competitive quote and were available to undertake the work quickly to suit our needs. They worked at a steady pace with a focus on doing it right rather than doing it quickly. Their communication was good and they were as tidy as you can be with such a job. Overall we are very pleased with the outcome of the work, many thanks.

Roman home improvements is a company who pride them selves on high quality workmanship at affordable prices. We have over 20 years experience and cover all aspects of construction. We are here to not only build for your needs but with our experience and knowledge to help design for your needs.

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Reviewed by Elaine on 22/7/2025

Free quotes. Free Advice. Public Liability Insurance. Clean & Tidy Worker. Over 25yrs Experience in the building trade. We are a friendly family run business. We cover All roofing work undertaken, repairs to complete Re-Roof. Flat Roof. Chimney repairs. Fascia. Soffits. Guttering. Pointing. Also Landscaping. Patios. Blockpaving. Driveways. Fencing. External & Internal Painting. Brickwork. Extensions. Small jobs are welcome.

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Reviewed by Phil on 23/4/2025

A really good job. Very happy with the finished product. Waiting on a quote for something else now.

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