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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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Gaudi Construction boasts a 10-year experience and activity in Surrey and South-West London, which has brought the company considerable expertise in Tiling, refurbishment and construction at professional level.
Very good service and kept the hallway clean.
family run business with over 20 years in the roofing industry we can meet all of your roofing needs from flat roofs fibreglass felt or rubber we do small single slate and tile repairs to whole new roofs all UPVC products dry verge systems dry ridge systems all types of guttering basically anything to do with your roof chimney repairs to lead work we do it all hard and soft Brick layer re-pointing /
I call Phill and sons 3 days ago to fix a leak on my roof. I did have the valley fix by an other roofer but they did not do anything just to take my money. I was a bit suspicious but I was happily surprise when I call Phill who repond to my call very quicly. He is very friendly and most of all very professional. So so please with Phill I'll will recommand him anytime.Thank you Phill for your excellent job
CRM Unlimited Test 2
Groundwork / Foundations
midland improvements has over 35 years in the home improvement market from a kitchen to a bathroom from a garage conversion to a full renovation whatever your home improvement needs we have the experience and trades to complete the job ,
Garage conversion into living accommodation, en-suite, and retained small section for storage accessible from both outside and inside. Great work that's stood up to almost 4 years of solid regular use so far.
We are specialists in exterior rendering application and maintenance. Offer long life, exterior protective spray wall rendering systems Full EWI System - External Wall Insulation Roughcasting Chimney rendering Silicone / Acrylic Thin Coat Monocouche/Scratch Render Smooth finish render All types of external rendering
Ziggy did a fantastic job painting our (very large) garden fence. We wanted a freshen up before the rest of our garden was done, and Ziggy did exactly that… all with a smile on his face. He was very professional and friendly and put in a couple of hard shifts to get it done.
BAK Carpentry and construction is here for all your carpentry/ home improvement needs!!!
Would happily recommend Brad to anyone needing any type of joinery work. I've had a stunning gazebo built over our Hot Tub and a tricky bespoke shed built that I couldn't be happier with. Will have more jobs for him at the house very soon. Clean, tidy, on time everyday and brilliant price.
Homefirst
Groundwork / Foundations
Home First Services - Qualified installer with over 20 years experience. Providing building and carpentry services. Aluminium and UPVC specialists.
I am an experienced professional within the property development sector with over 10 years experience. The service I provide includes: Building Works Extensions -Single storey -Double storey -Plastering Service - Skimming Service - Internal renovations - Electrical works Gardening landscape - All types of patio installation - Block paving - Turfing - Installation of Artificial grass - All types of Fencing - Decking - Brick work - Garden cleaning - General maintenance I am committed to delivering good quality service at affordable prices and ensuring we keep our customers happy. Please call today for a free, no obligation quote.
Really pleased with the job. Good communication throughout, responded promptly and very clear about timelines. Didn’t take short cuts, but still very efficient. Would definitely use them again. Genuine and fair pricing too!
Top Line removals & clearances
Groundwork / Foundations
Check out our face book page toplinesprayers uk !!!!
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.
Brilliant service. Sorted out the work I needed doing very quickly. Polite, punctual and efficient. Able to help with so many odd jobs. Definitely a must have for any landlord/lady. Reasonable rates. Thank you Dan, Les and Keenan ????
Residential and commercial building contractor specialising in kitchens, bathrooms and full renovations. With over 12 years experience in the building industry our attention to detail is paramount.
Very quick, well priced and they did a great job. Thank you
Welcome to JM Landscapes & Driveways Ltd, your trusted partner in transforming outdoor spaces across the Midlands! We're a family-run business founded on a simple principle: dedication to excellence in gardening and landscaping. At JM Landscapes & Driveways, we specialize in general garden maintenance, paving, fencing, and decking. Whether it's a residential haven or a commercial landscape, our team of two brothers brings a combined 15 years of expertise to every project we undertake. What sets us apart? Our commitment to your satisfaction. We stand by our work and won't expect payment until you are completely thrilled with the results. Your happiness is our priority, and we ensure that our craftsmanship exceeds your expectations. From sprucing up your backyard to creating stunning outdoor spaces, we're passionate about enhancing the beauty and functionality of your property. Our services cater to both domestic and commercial clients, offering tailored solutions to suit every need. When you choose JM JM Landscapes & Driveways Ltd, you're choosing a team dedicated to quality, reliability, and personalized service. Let's transform your landscape into a masterpiece together.
I used the rated people site to try & find a reliable company to relay my front drive. I had a first response from JM Landscapes and Myles of JM actually called out at the weekend, the day after my enquiry, to discuss the job & agree terms Myles, Jim and the team were ready to start the following Monday and worked efficiently and effectively to deliver an excellent job that I would be happy for anyone to view. First class service, first class job.! I can truly thank JM for their work & thoroughly recommend!
Revitalise your home with Vitality Property & Refurbishments, your Stirling experts in bespoke home transformations. We specialise in renovations that turn your dreams into reality, with meticulous attention to detail and innovative solutions. Our clients choose us for our professional, friendly, and timely service, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish. We deliver high-quality results with exceptional attention to detail, maintaining a tidy workspace. Choose Vitality Property & Refurbishments for a smooth and fulfilling renovation journey, resulting in spaces that delight and inspire.
Excellent job wet walling and fitting out my cloakroom by Declan and Ben. Professional and friendly service. I would recommend Vitality heating and plumbing.
Rimi construction limited ! Guaranteed hight quality job with the best prices .
Very happy with Rimi. He at all times came up with ideas and solutions. We had a rear garden job. Involved brick work, decking, retiling, soil work,painting, creating new landscape overall. He did it professionally and in time. He was patient with delays in material supply and kept following up. Overall quite pleased with the end result
Hello and welcome to Three Counties Fencing and Decking. We cover all aspects of fencing for domestic and commercial customers We also cover a wide variety of other projects including •Decking •Gates •Landscaping •Paths And Patios •Garden Rooms •Brick Work •Drainage And much more Please feel free to have a look through our profile to see past jobs and the customers reviews. We are fully insured and have over 12+ years experience. We look forward to hearing from you. Kind Regards Paul Warren Three Counties Fencing And Decking
We're both really happy with the work Paul and his team did. He was really knowledgeable and did a great tidy job. Arrived when he said he would. Finished up on time and left everything nice and tidy. Exactly the kind of contractor you want to find when doing a job like this. Would absolutely work with him again. Great work.
Simple building solutions completed on time on budget by a professional.
Really pleased. He came out looked at job, like the fact he was able to give a price and time to do the job on the spot. He explained fully what he found and what was needed in layman’s term so I could understand. Will definitely use again.
I’ve worked on many projects from a small box room to hospitals care homes and even the Mersey tunnel but tired off not being able to achieve targets working for big companies I took the plunge about 3 years ago now and started working for myself with the aim of building my own personal clientele, where I can dedicate myself to the customer to achieve the image that is in your mind and make your decorating dreams come to life, I normally work with another qualified decorator who strives to achieve the same finish that you the customer wants along the way we offer a maintenance option of work were you can rely on 1 tradesman to complete most projects to take the stress off you and on to me, Many thanks for taking your time to read my profile and hopefully it will give you a small insight into what we can achieve for you Kind Regards Ian
What a great friendly guy. Did such a good job. Definitely use him again.
Dorset Extensions Group Ltd
Groundwork / Foundations
Transforming homes in Dorset WE DO IT ALL JUST CALL ! We are your one stop construction and electrical company whether your a home owner or a business we cater to all your building and electrical needs. Trust Dorset Extensions to bring your home and electrical improvements to life.
LS Electrical is a small independent company which takes pride in all of its works no matter how little I have now expanded and have a couple qualified electricians in house so can now compete on bigger projects and also on 1st fix wiring wire at quicker speeds Since above I now have a full refurb team and can manage all sorts of refurbishment works from kitchen fitting to all building works Driveways to making wood doors I have now been trading 5 years and have confidence in my team of trades people to produce 5 star quality works
A simple job switching over twin dimmer light switch to a double on/off light switch
With experience from Italy and from U.K in painting and decorating. Wi try to doo our best for the client, to give quality , responasability,advice if its necesary in our jobs. We belive your home should reflect your personal taste and style.
Cristian and his team were great. They are professional, highly skilled and polite. Would recommend.
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