BuildIQ logoBuildIQ

BuildIQ / foundations

Foundation cost calculator

A clear starting point for your foundation decision. Add your site conditions to see a useful budget range.
Foundation type
Stories

What does the result include?

Typical earthworks, materials, foundation execution, and standard site logistics for the selected option.

What does it exclude?

Structural design, geotechnical testing, specialist drainage, utility connections, and work outside the building footprint.

Why do soil and water matter?

Poor soil, rock, and groundwater can change earthwork scope and foundation protection.

Frequently asked questions+

Does this replace a quote? No — it helps you prepare a realistic budget before speaking with a contractor.

Can I use it without soil data? Yes — select Unknown; the range will be wider.

Is location included? The calculator uses data for the selected market. Conditions at a specific site can change the actual cost.

Is this a foundation design? No. Structural design belongs to a qualified designer.

This is an indicative budget, not a structural design or contractor quotation.

How it works

Choose a market, footprint, foundation type and site conditions. The model returns a LOW, TYPICAL and HIGH budget range and separates materials from labor.

What affects the result

Foundation type, footprint, storeys, soil, groundwater, slope, access and regional labor conditions can move the estimate and its confidence.

What is included

The result represents typical materials and work for the selected foundation option, including the installation work represented in the market model.

What is not included

It is not a geotechnical report, bearing-capacity calculation, reinforcement design or bill of quantities. Piles, special drainage and unusual excavation need project data.

How to use the estimate

Compare options on the same footprint and confirm site assumptions with the structural designer before using the result in contractor conversations.

Frequently asked questions

Slab or traditional foundation?

Foundation type, footprint, storeys, soil, groundwater, slope, access and regional labor conditions can move the estimate and its confidence.

Is labor included?

The result represents typical materials and work for the selected foundation option, including the installation work represented in the market model.

Does location affect the result?

It is not a geotechnical report, bearing-capacity calculation, reinforcement design or bill of quantities. Piles, special drainage and unusual excavation need project data.

Does this replace a soil survey?

Compare options on the same footprint and confirm site assumptions with the structural designer before using the result in contractor conversations.

Related calculators