17/06/2026
One small hole could save you thousands of pounds.
When planning a house extension, most people focus on the exciting parts – the extra space, the new layout, and how the finished project will look.
But one of the most important stages happens before any construction work begins: digging a trial hole.
A trial hole allows us to determine the depth and condition of the existing foundations. It sounds like a small task, but the information it provides can have a significant impact on the project's cost and programme.
Without carrying out this investigation, there's a risk that once work starts, unexpected foundation depths or ground conditions are discovered. This can lead to redesigns, additional excavation, extra concrete, delays, and ultimately costs running into thousands of pounds.
At MJG, we believe that good project planning starts with reducing uncertainty wherever possible.
That's why we encourage carrying out trial holes early in the process. While it may seem like an additional step at the beginning, it helps us provide more accurate advice, better cost forecasting, and fewer surprises once construction is underway.
We understand that most homeowners don't have an unlimited contingency fund sitting in the bank. Our aim is to identify potential issues early, minimise unforeseen costs, and help our clients make informed decisions from the outset.
Sometimes the most valuable work on a project is the work that prevents problems from happening in the first place.
