What are the hidden costs of owning scaffold?

Beyond the purchase price, you need: secure storage space, regular CISRS inspections (every 7 days when erected), replacement of damaged components, transport to/from sites, insurance cover, and compliance with Work at Height Regulations 2005.

What inspections are required for scaffold?

Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, scaffolding must be inspected: before first use, after any event likely to affect stability, and at intervals not exceeding 7 days while erected. Inspections must be by a competent person (CISRS trained) and results recorded.

How much scaffold storage space do I need?

A typical domestic scaffold set (suitable for a 2-storey house front) requires approximately 3m x 2m of storage space. Components must be stored undercover and off the ground to prevent corrosion. Many tradespeople use a corner of their yard or rent storage space.

When does buying scaffold make sense?

Buying is typically worthwhile if you use scaffolding more than 15-20 times per year, have storage space, and are competent to erect it yourself (or employ someone who is). For occasional use, hiring is almost always more cost-effective and hassle-free.

Do I need a CITB scaffold card?

To erect scaffolding for others, you need a CISRS (Construction Industry Scaffolders Record Scheme) card. For basic scaffold on your own jobs, a Part 1 scaffolding course is recommended. Any scaffold over 2m height should only be erected by trained personnel.

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Scaffold Hire vs Buy Calculator

Compare the cost of buying scaffold vs hiring for each job

Purchase Cost

Hire Rate per Week

Uses per Year

Weeks per Use

How We Calculate This

Enter the purchase cost of the scaffold set and your typical hire rate per week. Specify how many times per year you would use it and for how many weeks each time. Add ownership costs: storage, inspections, maintenance, and transport. The calculator compares annual hire cost against annual ownership cost (depreciation + running costs) and finds the break-even point in number of uses.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates. Verify with your supplier.