Scaffolding Cost Calculator 2025/26

For a standard semi-detached house requiring roof repair or full render, scaffolding costs typically range from £800-£2,500 for erection and dismantling, plus hire costs of £25-£50/week. A full-perimeter scaffold for a detached house would cost £2,000-£4,500 for erection/strike and £40-£80/week hire. Cost varies by region (London premium of 20-30%), access difficulty, height, and scaffolding company. Always get 3 quotes from NASC members and ensure the quote includes inspection certificates.

Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005 (WAHR), scaffolding must be inspected: before first use; after any event likely to have affected its integrity (severe weather, impact); and at least every 7 days thereafter. Inspections must be carried out by a competent person (typically the scaffolding contractor or a qualified scaffolding inspector). The inspection record must be kept and available on site. The scaffold erector is responsible for the initial inspection on handover.

Putlog scaffolding (also called bricklayer's scaffolding) has one row of standards (vertical tubes) and uses the building wall as the inner support — putlog tubes rest in the wall joints. It is suitable for new build brick/block construction but not for existing buildings where you don't want to make holes. Independent scaffolding (tube-and-fitting or system scaffold) has two rows of standards and does not rely on the building for support — suitable for existing buildings, refurbishment, and painted or rendered surfaces that should not be disturbed.