How much does scaffolding cost in the UK?

Typical UK rates are £15-25 per m² for erection, £1-2 per m² per week for hire, and £8-12 per m² for dismantling. A standard two-storey house scaffold (around 50m²) typically costs £600-1,200 to erect with weekly hire of £50-100. System scaffold is more expensive but quicker to erect.

Do I need a pavement licence for scaffolding?

Yes, if the scaffold is erected on or over a public highway (road, pavement, or footpath), you need a licence from the local council under the Highways Act 1980. Costs vary by council (typically £50-200 per week). The scaffolding company usually arranges this but passes the cost to you.

How often must scaffolding be inspected?

Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, scaffolding must be inspected before first use, after any event likely to affect stability (e.g., high winds), and at regular intervals not exceeding 7 days. Inspections must be carried out by a competent person and recorded on a scaffold inspection register.

What is the difference between independent and putlog scaffolding?

Independent scaffolding is free-standing with two rows of standards and does not rely on the building for support. Putlog scaffolding has one row of standards with horizontal tubes (putlogs) built into the mortar joints of the wall. Putlog is cheaper but can only be used on new brickwork, not existing buildings.

What additional items might I need?

Common additions include: staircase towers (safer than ladders), loading bays (for materials), brick guards (mesh panels to stop falling objects), debris netting (fine mesh), handrails, toe boards, sheeting (weather protection), and lighting. Each adds to the cost but may be required for compliance.

TradeCalculator.co.uk

Scaffolding Hire Cost Calculator

Calculate scaffolding hire costs by duration, tower size and access requirements

Scaffold Type

Length

Height

Hire Duration

How We Calculate This

Enter the scaffold type, length, height, and hire duration in weeks. The calculator works out the scaffold area and applies UK typical rates for erection, weekly hire, and dismantling. Adjust for the number of lifts and boarded lifts. Add optional extras like staircase towers, loading bays, brick guards, debris netting, and pavement licences. Inspection costs are calculated based on your chosen frequency.