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Foundations, drainage, slabs, excavation and underpinning — full 2026 trade-pricing reference.
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Costs, timelines, pitfalls and the right questions to ask before any groundworks starts on groundworks Cost UK 2026 — Trade Pricing Reference.
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Top tips
Hiring a groundworks, without the regret.
Four moves that separate a smooth job from a nightmare.
Hidden costs
Soil disposal, service strikes, additional depth. Get quote with allowances.
Building Regs not included
Should be in builder's scope. Confirm.
Below-market quote concerns
May skip soil survey, structural calc. Verify scope.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
House foundationsNew build typical
£15k–£35k
Extension foundationsPer extension
£3.5k–£12k
Driveway construction30-50m²
£1.5k–£8.5k
Foundation underpinning per metreSubsidence remediation
£1k–£5k
Retaining wall per metre1-2m height
£150–£500
Concrete slab per m²Garage or floor
£40–£150/m²
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
Infographic · VideoThe Groundworks briefing.
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Groundworks quick-view
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Groundworks explained
UK groundworks prices vary by type, location, and complexity. This reference helps spot fair quotes. All prices include VAT for 2026.
What Does the Work Involve?
Pricing reference — see individual guides. Prices assume NFB member specialist, quality materials, and proper warranty. London/SE 15-25% above national average.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low (£) | High (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| House foundations | 15,000 | 35,000 | New build typical |
| Extension foundations | 3,500 | 12,000 | Per extension |
| Driveway construction | 1,500 | 8,500 | 30-50m² |
| Foundation underpinning per metre | 1,000 | 5,000 | Subsidence remediation |
| Retaining wall per metre | 150 | 500 | 1-2m height |
| Concrete slab per m² | 40 | 150 | Garage or floor |
| Garden excavation per m³ | 80 | 300 | Plus disposal |
| Surface water drainage | 2,500 | 8,500 | New build |
| Service connections (all) | 2,500 | 15,000 | Water, gas, electric |
| Mini pile foundations | 3,500 | 10,000 | Standard extension |
| French drain per metre | 80 | 200 | Garden drainage |
| GSHP horizontal loop | 4,000 | 10,000 | Heat pump install |
| Reinforced concrete wall per m² | 300 | 800 | Structural |
| Soakaway installation | 500 | 2,500 | Domestic |
How Long Does It Take?
Foundations: 2-8 weeks. Driveways: 3-5 days. Major earthworks: weeks to months.
DIY or Professional?
NFB member essential for quality. DIY for very small projects.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
NFB or FMB member. Structural engineer for major work. Insurance-backed warranty.
UK Regulations
Building Regs Part A, H, L. Listed buildings need consent. Highway authority approval for some excavation.
Common Problems With Quotes
- Hidden costs: Soil disposal, service strikes, additional depth. Get quote with allowances.
- VAT excluded: Always confirm.
- Building Regs not included: Should be in builder's scope. Confirm.
- Below-market quote concerns: May skip soil survey, structural calc. Verify scope.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much for typical new build?
Groundworks 8-15% of new build total. £200,000 build: £15,000-£30,000 on groundworks.
Why so much variation?
Soil conditions, project complexity, location. London 15-25% above national. Difficult soils premium.
Payment structure?
25% deposit, staged payments on completion of milestones. Don't pay 100% upfront.
Will groundworks include rebuild?
Foundations and below-ground services included. Above-ground rebuild typically separate.
Building Regs included?
Usually — but confirm. Application fees and inspection schedule should be in quote.
How long warranty?
10 years typical on workmanship. Insurance-backed essential for major work.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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