Those sloping gardens in Cheam's Victorian quarters need proper groundwork foundations before any building project starts. From excavating clay-heavy soil near Worcester Park to installing French drains along Sutton's borders, the right preparation makes everything else possible.
Response within 24 hours
Cheam's mix of 1930s semis and newer developments throws up interesting groundwork challenges. Clay soil expands dramatically after heavy rain, while chalk deposits near Nonsuch Park create entirely different drainage requirements. Years spent working between the High Street and Ewell means understanding exactly which approach suits each plot.
Proper excavation depth depends entirely on what lies beneath. Sandy patches require different compaction techniques than the heavy London clay dominating SM3. Modern soakaways positioned correctly handle surface water far better than old-style drainage systems. Machine access through narrow side returns - common in older Cheam properties - requires specialist mini-diggers and experienced operators.
Local knowledge beats generic solutions every time. The water table varies significantly between North Cheam and areas closer to Sutton, affecting foundation specifications. Twenty years navigating planning requirements across both SM2 and SM3 postcodes helps avoid costly delays.
Rated 4.9/5 from over 280 verified reviews
Extension foundations typically range £3,000-£8,000 depending on depth and access. Full driveway excavation and preparation usually falls between £2,500-£6,000. Drainage solutions vary widely - simple soakaways from £800, comprehensive systems reaching £4,000+.
Absolutely - regular projects span from Belmont through central SM2 to the Worcester Park boundaries. SM3 areas including North Cheam and towards Sutton see us frequently, particularly for Victorian property renovations requiring careful foundation work.
Small drainage jobs often complete within 3-4 days. Extension foundations generally need 1-2 weeks including inspection stages. Larger projects involving multiple elements - say driveway base plus new drainage - typically run 2-3 weeks weather permitting.
All foundation work carries our decade-long structural guarantee, backed by proper insurance. Drainage installations include the same ten-year coverage against defects. Documentation provided meets building control and mortgage lender requirements.
Winter work remains possible with proper planning. Waterproof sheeting protects excavations, while pumps handle excess water. Clay soil actually becomes easier to dig when damp. However, concrete pours need frost protection, potentially adding slight costs during January-February cold snaps.
Get your free, no-obligation quote today.