top of page

Underpinning & Structural Foundation Solutions

​​

We provide professional underpinning and structural foundation solutions for homeowners, landlords, commercial property owners and developers throughout York, Harrogate, Selby, Malton, Tadcaster, Wetherby and the wider North Yorkshire region.

If your property is suffering from subsidence, foundation movement, structural cracking or requires foundation strengthening as part of an extension or renovation project, our experienced team can design and deliver a tailored underpinning solution that restores stability and gives you complete peace of mind.

house concrete underpinning close up image.jpg

 

What Is Underpinning?

​

Underpinning is a specialist construction method used to strengthen, deepen or stabilise existing foundations. It is commonly required when:

​

  • Foundations have become unstable due to ground movement.

  • A property is affected by subsidence.

  • Existing foundations are insufficient for structural alterations.

  • Nearby excavation has impacted ground conditions.

  • Extensions or additional storeys require increased load-bearing capacity.

  • Drainage issues have weakened the supporting ground.

 

Our team works alongside structural engineers and building control officers to ensure all underpinning works are completed safely, professionally and in compliance with current building regulations.

​

Signs Your Property May Need Underpinning
If you've noticed any of the following issues, it may be time to seek professional advice:

Image by Mick Haupt
Image by Oleg Stepanov

Structural Cracking

​

  • Diagonal cracks around doors and windows

  • Cracks wider than 5mm

  • Progressive cracking that continues to worsen

​​

Subsidence Indicators

​

  • Sloping or uneven floors

  • Doors and windows sticking

  • Gaps between walls and ceilings

  • Visible movement in masonry

​​

Foundation Problems

​​

  • Settlement following nearby construction work

  • Weak or shallow foundations

  • Evidence of ground movement around the property

Our Underpinning Services

​

Mass Concrete Underpinning

A traditional and proven method where sections beneath existing foundations are excavated and strengthened with reinforced concrete..

​

Beam and Base Underpinning

A modern solution that distributes structural loads over a wider area, reducing pressure on

weak ground.

​

Structural Repairs & Foundation Strengthening

We also undertake associated structural repairs including:

​

  • Crack stitching

  • Structural wall repairs

  • Foundation reconstruction

  • Drainage-related foundation repairs

  • Reinforcement works for extensions and conversions

Frequently Asked Questions

​

How much does underpinning cost?

 

Costs vary depending on the size of the property, ground conditions and the underpinning method required. We provide detailed quotations following a site assessment.

​

How long does underpinning take?

 

Most domestic underpinning projects take several weeks, although larger or more complex schemes may require longer timeframes.

​

Will I need planning permission?

 

Underpinning itself does not usually require planning permission, but building regulations approval is generally required. We can advise on the specific requirements for your project.

​

Can you work with my structural engineer?

 

Absolutely. We regularly collaborate with structural engineers, architects and surveyors to deliver compliant structural solutions.

Request a Structural Assessment

 

If you've noticed cracks, movement or signs of subsidence, don't ignore the problem. Early intervention can prevent more extensive and costly repairs in the future.

Contact us

Estimate budget range
Federation of master builders
Trustmark
fsb member
© 2026 by Waxwing Design and Build Ltd. All rights reserved.
bottom of page