How Much Does Scaffolding Cost for Home Renovations in the UK?
Whether it is a repaint, a roof fix, a loft conversion, installing solar panels or repointing brickwork, scaffolding is usually an inevitable necessity to reach high level jobs and get it done safely and efficiently. But among the first few questions homeowners usually ask is: how much does scaffolding cost?
This analysis of scaffolding rental cost prices in the UK, explains what will impact the total cost, and gives a comparison between renting and purchasing scaffolding for long contracts.
We also recommend that your read our recent blog post on: How to choose the right scaffolding for your home project.
Typical Scaffolding Cost in the UK
The cost of scaffolding can be very different based on the scale and complexity of your project, your location, and how long the scaffolding is required for. Typically, UK homeowners can expect to pay between £80 to £150 per day, or between £600 to £1,000 per week, for basic domestic scaffolding.
Here’s a rough guide based on typical home renovation scenarios:
| Scaffolding Requirement | Average Cost (Weekly Rental) |
|---|---|
| Single Side of a 2-Storey House | £500 – £800 |
| Whole 2-Storey House | £1,500 – £2,500 |
| Chimney Access | £450 – £800 |
| Roof Repairs | £500 – £1,000 |
| Loft Conversion | £1,000 – £2,500 |
| Gutter Work | £350 – £700 |
Prices based on 2024 scaffolding cost industry estimates across the UK.
What’s Normally Included in Scaffolding Costs?
Scaffolding hire typically includes a series of primary items:
Assembly and removal
Scaffolding installation and take down are typically included in the overall estimate, but will normally cost £150–£300 if separately billed.
Hire period
Quotes are typically done on 6–8 weeks of hire. Any longer, and there will be a weekly extension charge.
Design and testing
For particularly intricate scaffolding or high-risk work, there may be additional fees for scaffolding design reports or for safety inspections.
Pick-up and delivery
Travel expenses can be added or charged apart, depending on the location of the scaffolding company.
Things That Influence Scaffolding Price
Understanding what contributes to its cost helps you plan better. The most critical things are:
1. Structure Size and Height
The higher and bigger your house, the more material and time is required for scaffolding installation. Scaffolding for a three-story townhouse, for instance, may be 20–30% more than for a bungalow.
2. Access and Location
Narrow areas, sloping gardens, or restricted areas may require specialist equipment or more complex rigging, which will be an additional expense. Scaffolding in central London or the South East is generally more expensive due to higher labour and transport fees.
3. Project Duration
We would usually quote for a hire period of 6 to 8 weeks. If your project runs longer than this, weekly extension rates (about £50–£150) will be incurred.
4. Special Requirements
Need scaffolding over a conservatory, glass roof, or public pavement? You might need additional structures like bridging scaffolds or temporary walkways. On top of that, council permits are needed for any scaffolding on public land, which could cost an additional £50–£150 depending on the local authority.
Renting vs Buying Scaffolding
If you’re a home owner doing a short-term job like guttering work or painting outside, hiring scaffolding tends to be the cheapest and easiest solution.
But if you’re a keen renovator or engaged on a long-term self-build project, buying scaffolding can be a money-saving concept. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Renting | Lower upfront cost, professionally erected | Ongoing rental fees, limited flexibility |
| Buying | Long-term cost savings, flexible use | High upfront cost, storage and safety responsibility, self erected |
A basic DIY scaffolding tower can start at around £300–£500 and range up to £1,000+, but whole systems for a whole house can cost several thousand pounds and will require professional training to be erected safely.
Hidden Costs To Consider
Although quotes from scaffolding businesses usually have the essentials such as assembly, renting, and breakdown, homeowners also need to note other charges which may slip into the costs in more involved or longer renovation works. Such unseen expenses will suddenly drive your cost of scaffolding above the anticipated amount.
Permit Costs
If your scaffolding extends over a public path, road, or pavement, you’ll need a licence from your local council. This can cost anywhere from £50 to over £150, depending on your location and the duration of the permit. Failure to get a permit can lead to fines or forced removal of the scaffold.
Extended Hire Periods
Most scaffolding quotes are based on a hire period of 6 to 8 weeks. If your renovation experiences delays or takes longer than expected, you’ll usually be charged an additional £50–£150 per week for continued rental.
Special Access Solutions
Projects that involve hard-to-reach areas, such as above conservatories, sloped gardens, or narrow passageways, may require bridging scaffolds, extra bracing, or customised platforms, which all add to the cost.
Additional Safety Features
Depending on the height of the scaffold and your job, other measures may be necessary as a safety precaution. Edge protection, netting, toe boards, or even low-visibility lighting in winter may be necessary. These extras are not always included in your initial quote.
Scaffolding Alarms
If your scaffold is exposed overnight in a susceptible area or is street accessible, insurers or councils might suggest the use of a scaffold alarm system. Alarms, although a useful security feature, can cost £100 – £300 extra.
Final Thoughts
Scaffolding is a key part of the majority of exterior home renovation projects, but knowing how much you are likely to pay before you begin saves you from unforeseen costs. While typical scaffolding rental prices for residential applications in the UK range between £300 – £1,000 weekly depending on size and location, being aware of cost influencing factors helps you plan intelligently.
Always ensure you’re working with a reputable scaffolding company that complies with UK safety standards. It might not be the cheapest quote that offers the best value, look for a balance of cost, experience, and service.
Need scaffolding for your next home renovation? Reach out to Oculus Group on 07467521692 or use our contact form and one of our team will get back to your request.
