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Prepare a building site.
Clearance, demolition, level, fence and access — the unsexy work before the foundations go in.
✓ Updated May 2026✓ Free quotes✓ Vetted pros
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Costs, timelines, pitfalls and the right questions to ask before any groundworks starts on site Preparation & Clearance.
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Hidden services
Underground gas, water, electric. Pre-dig surveys essential.
Protected trees
Some trees protected by TPO (Tree Preservation Order). Planning permission for felling.
Asbestos in old buildings
Pre-2000 buildings may have asbestos. Survey before demolition.
Soil contamination
Old industrial sites may have contaminated soil. Specialist disposal.
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
Demolition of small structureShed, conservatory
£500–£2.5k
Demolition of full housePlus disposal
£5k–£20k
Vegetation clearancePer 100m²
£300–£1.5k
Tree felling (per tree)Plus disposal
£150–£1.5k
Site fencing per metreFor construction
£30–£80
Topsoil stripping per m²200-300mm
£5–£20/m²
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
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Groundworks explained
Site preparation clears land for building work. Includes demolition, vegetation clearance, grading. Expect to pay £500–£3,500 for UK site preparation depending on scope.
What Does the Work Involve?
Existing structures demolished (if any). Vegetation cleared. Trees may need felling (planning permission for protected trees). Topsoil stripped and stockpiled. Subsoil graded to design level. Site fencing erected. Services (water, electricity) installed for build use.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low (£) | High (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Demolition of small structure | 500 | 2,500 | Shed, conservatory |
| Demolition of full house | 5,000 | 20,000 | Plus disposal |
| Vegetation clearance | 300 | 1,500 | Per 100m² |
| Tree felling (per tree) | 150 | 1,500 | Plus disposal |
| Site fencing per metre | 30 | 80 | For construction |
| Topsoil stripping per m² | 5 | 20 | 200-300mm |
| Standard site preparation | 800 | 3,500 | Single home site |
How Long Does It Take?
Standard preparation: 1-2 weeks. Including services and fencing setup.
DIY or Professional?
Specialist groundworker. Tree felling specialist. Demolition contractor for buildings.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
NFB member groundworker. Tree surgeon for trees. Demolition specialist if structures involved.
UK Regulations
Tree preservation orders restrict felling. Listed building demolition needs consent. Building Regs Part B for fire access during construction. CDM Regulations for safety.
Common Problems
- Hidden services: Underground gas, water, electric. Pre-dig surveys essential.
- Protected trees: Some trees protected by TPO (Tree Preservation Order). Planning permission for felling.
- Asbestos in old buildings: Pre-2000 buildings may have asbestos. Survey before demolition.
- Soil contamination: Old industrial sites may have contaminated soil. Specialist disposal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will trees be removed?
Yes if necessary. Some protected (TPO) — need planning permission for felling. Get arborist assessment.
Demolition cost?
Small structure: £500-£2,500. Full house: £5,000-£20,000. Plus disposal of materials.
Site security during build?
Site fencing essential. £30-£80 per metre. Plus security at night/weekends if needed.
Topsoil — keep or remove?
Strip and stockpile for re-use in garden. Premium topsoil from new build is valuable resource.
Asbestos in old buildings?
Pre-2000 buildings: survey required. Asbestos removal specialist. Add to budget.
Time for full preparation?
Standard site: 1-2 weeks. Complex (demolition, services): 2-4 weeks.
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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