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Planning a new build or extension? Foundations are essential to a structure’s stability and durability, but their cost varies widely depending on the foundation type, ground conditions, and accessibility. This guide covers everything you need to know about new home foundation costs in the UK.

Table of Contents

• Average Cost of New Foundations
• Foundation Types and Costs
• Factors Influencing Foundation Costs
• Additional Costs to Consider
• FAQs

Average Cost of New Foundations

The typical cost for foundation work in the UK ranges from £1,000 to £5,000, with exact pricing dependent on foundation type, size, and depth requirements. For a standard 20m trench foundation, expect costs between £2,500 and £4,000.

Foundation Costs

* The above calculator includes:

• Cost of materials, including wastage
• Labour costs
• Overheads and profit margin
• Average UK rates (London rates require an uplift).

Factors Influencing Foundation Costs

Several factors can impact the overall cost of new foundations:

• Soil Type: Different soils (e.g., clay, sand, or rock) impact foundation depth and material needs, affecting cost.
• Building Size: Larger structures require more extensive foundations.
• Accessibility: Limited site access can increase excavation and labour costs.
• Environmental Conditions: Factors like tree proximity or high water tables may require deeper foundations.

Additional Costs to Consider

Additional expenses are often part of foundation work, especially if unexpected site conditions arise:

• Excavation: Removal of existing materials may cost an additional £50-£80 per metre.
• Concrete Reinforcement: Adding reinforcement may cost between £50 and £70 per square metre.
• Surveying and Soil Testing: Essential for understanding ground conditions, costing £1,200–£1,800.

FAQs

1. How deep should foundations be?

For standard residential buildings, foundation depths are typically around 1 metre, though this varies with soil type and building requirements.

2. Are trench foundations more expensive than strip foundations?

Trench foundations often cost more due to increased concrete usage but may save on labour costs.

3. Do foundation costs include professional fees?

Typically, foundation quotes do not include professional fees for architects or surveyors.

4. What is the best foundation for clay soil?

Raft foundations work well in clay soil, distributing loads evenly across a large area and reducing the risk of settlement.

5. Do I need a building inspector to check foundations?

Yes, inspections are generally required to ensure foundation depth and quality meet building regulations.

6. Are there additional costs for foundations near trees?

Yes, foundation depths may need adjustment near trees, especially in clay soils, to account for soil moisture changes.

For accurate budgeting, try our cost calculators available here or for a full building estimate for your project, feel free to reach out to us below: