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01 · Ask
Single side or whole house?
Roof work, chimney, render? Describe the project and the AI tells you the right scaffold spec.
Erect roof scaffolding.
Roof-edge protection and access scaffold — for re-tiling, leadwork or chimney repair.
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Read the brief on cards, designs, inspections and licences — then let three NASC scaffolders quote.
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02 · Read the brief
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TG20 designs, SG4 inspections, CISRS cards, pavement licences. Know what compliance looks like.
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03 · Compare
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Three NASC scaffolders quote on the same spec — duration, design, inspections, licence — so you compare cleanly.
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Four moves that separate a smooth job from a nightmare.
CISRS-card holders only.
Every scaffolder on site needs a CISRS card. No card = no insurance cover if there's an accident. Insist on seeing them.
Get the design drawing.
Any scaffold over 38m, or non-standard, needs a TG20 design or bespoke drawing. Without it, the scaffold isn't compliant — and your project isn't either.
Daily inspection certificate.
Working scaffolds need a SG4-compliant inspection at handover and every 7 days. Insist on the signed inspection paperwork.
Check pavement licence.
Anything on pavement or road needs a council pavement licence (£70–£300). Scaffolder usually arranges; check it's in place before they start.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
Domestic scaffold (1 side, 1 week)
£400–£900
Whole house scaffold (1 week)
£1.2k–£2.5k
Chimney access tower
£400–£900
Roof edge protection only
£600–£1.5k
Weekly extension (per week)
£50–£150
Pavement licence (council fee)
£70–£300
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
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Scaffolder explained
Roof scaffolding — full perimeter edge protection for roof works. Building Regs compliant. Expect to pay £600–£3,000 for UK roof scaffolding.
What Does the Work Involve?
CISRS-trained scaffolder. Tube and fitting around full perimeter. Toe boards and double handrail. Often includes lift to gutter and one to ridge. 1-4 week hire standard. SG4 compliant.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low (£) | High (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached roof scaffold | 600 | 1,500 | 1-2 week hire |
| Detached roof scaffold | 1,000 | 2,500 | Larger |
| Three-storey townhouse | 1,500 | 3,500 | Higher |
| Bungalow roof scaffold | 500 | 1,200 | Lower height |
| Roof + gable scaffold combined | 800 | 2,500 | Combined access |
| Lift platform only (Pasma tower) | 200 | 800 | DIY alternative |
| Extra week hire | 50 | 200 | Per week beyond standard |
UK Regulations
Working at Height Regs 2005. SG4. TG20:21. CDM 2015 for major. Council pavement licence if on road.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tower or scaffold for roof?
Roof tiling/repair: scaffold for safety. Quick inspection: tower OK.
Edge protection mandatory?
Yes — working at height. Toe boards and handrails. SG4 compliant.
Combined with roof project?
Roofer arranges typically. Quote includes scaffold.
How long does erection?
Roof scaffold: half-day to 1 day. Dismantle: half day.
Pavement licence required?
If on public road: yes. Council £100-£300. Provider arranges.
Insurance level?
£5m public liability minimum. £10m commercial.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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