When planning a new build, extension, or landscaping project, the success of your home improvement starts with the ground beneath it. Sussex groundworks form the essential foundation of any construction project, ensuring your property is stable, safe, and built to last.
At CJ Groundworks, we specialise in providing reliable, professional, and fully compliant groundworks services across Sussex. From foundations and drainage to site preparation and driveways, our experienced team ensures every project begins on solid ground.
1. What Are Groundworks?
Groundworks refer to all the preparation and construction tasks carried out before a building’s structure is erected. It’s the first and most critical phase of construction — literally laying the groundwork for everything that follows.
For homeowners in Sussex, groundworks typically include:
- Site clearance and excavation
- Foundation installation (strip, raft, or pad)
- Drainage and soakaway systems
- Driveways, patios, and paving
- Retaining walls and landscaping preparation
Well-executed Sussex groundworks ensure your home remains structurally sound, free from drainage issues, and compliant with building regulations.
2. Why Groundworks Are So Important
Ignoring or cutting corners on groundworks can cause serious long-term problems, including cracking, flooding, or even structural instability.
Here’s why professional groundworks in Sussex are so vital:
- Prevent subsidence: Proper foundations ensure your home remains level and secure.
- Protect against flooding: Well-planned drainage prevents surface water build-up.
- Enhance property value: Quality groundwork improves the performance and appearance of your home.
- Ensure compliance: Work carried out to UK Building Regulations avoids costly future issues.
With Sussex’s mix of chalky and clay-based soils, expert assessment and preparation are key to ensuring the stability of your project.
3. Our Groundworks Services in Sussex
At CJ Groundworks, we provide a full range of professional services tailored for residential homeowners across East and West Sussex.
a. Foundations and Footings
Strong, durable foundations are the backbone of any structure. We offer strip, raft, and pad foundations, ensuring your extension or new build rests securely on stable ground.
b. Drainage and Soakaway Systems
Our team designs and installs efficient drainage systems that meet Environment Agency standards, protecting your property from water damage and damp.
c. Site Preparation and Excavation
Before any construction begins, we clear vegetation, level the land, and prepare the site for building — ensuring a safe and even base.
d. Driveways and Paving
From concrete bases to block-paved driveways and patios, we deliver long-lasting, visually appealing finishes that add kerb appeal and functionality.
e. Landscaping and Retaining Walls
We construct retaining walls, install garden drainage, and prepare soil and levels ready for turfing or decorative landscaping.
Every Sussex groundworks project we complete is built with precision, quality materials, and full regulatory compliance.
Learn more about our groundworks services in Sussex.
4. Why Choose CJ Groundworks
Homeowners across Sussex trust CJ Groundworks because we combine local expertise with professional workmanship and transparent pricing.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Experienced groundworks contractors with years of local knowledge
- Fully insured and compliant with UK Building Regulations
- Honest, clear quotes — no hidden fees
- State-of-the-art equipment and modern techniques
- Reliable, friendly, and efficient service
Whether it’s a new driveway, home extension, or complete site preparation, our team ensures your Sussex groundworks are completed to the highest standard.
5. Typical Costs for Groundworks in Sussex
Groundwork costs vary depending on the size, complexity, and location of your project. However, homeowners in Sussex can expect:
- Foundations: £80–£150 per linear metre
- Drainage installation: £1,500–£3,500 (depending on system size)
- Driveways and paving: £60–£120 per square metre
- Site clearance and excavation: From £500 upwards
CJ Groundworks provides tailored quotes after an on-site inspection, ensuring accuracy and fairness for every client.
6. The Groundworks Process
Our structured process guarantees quality and compliance from start to finish:
- Site Survey: We assess soil conditions, access, and drainage needs.
- Excavation and Preparation: The ground is levelled, compacted, and stabilised.
- Foundation and Drainage Installation: Concrete foundations and drainage systems are installed precisely to plan.
- Finishing Works: Driveways, patios, or surface finishing are completed.
- Final Inspection: We ensure full compliance with building control and client satisfaction.
Every project is overseen by our experienced engineers to maintain the highest quality standards.
7. Why Professional Groundworks Matter for Homeowners
DIY or unregulated groundworks can cause major long-term issues, including uneven settling, poor drainage, or failed building inspections.
By hiring CJ Groundworks, you benefit from:
- Certified, insured professionals
- Accurate levelling and soil assessment
- Environmentally responsible practices
- Work backed by experience and warranty
Investing in professional Sussex groundworks protects your property’s structure, safety, and long-term value.
Contact CJ Groundworks
If you’re planning a new build, home extension, or landscaping project, start with the experts in Sussex groundworks.
Contact CJ Groundworks today for a site visit, expert advice, or a free quotation.
Phone: 0788 175 7877
Email: chris@cjgroundworks.com | henry@cjgroundworks.com
Website: https://cjgroundworks.com/services/groundworks/
Sussex Groundworks FAQs
Q1: What areas of Sussex do you cover?
A1: We provide groundworks services across East and West Sussex, including Crawley, Horsham, Worthing, Haywards Heath, and Chichester.
Q2: How long do residential Sussex groundworks take?
A2: Most small residential groundwork projects take between one and three weeks, depending on site size and conditions.
Q3: Do I need planning permission for Sussex groundworks?
A3: Not usually for domestic projects, but building control approval may be required for foundations and drainage. We can guide you through this process.