Scaffolding Costs Explained: What Affects the Price?
What's included and what isn't?
When you’re planning home improvements or repairs, scaffolding is often an essential part of the project — but knowing what you’re actually paying for isn’t always clear. At TomRed Scaffolding Ltd, we believe transparency builds trust. So here’s a simple breakdown of what’s included in scaffolding hire costs, what affects the price, and what may cost extra depending on your project.
1. Size & Complexity of the Scaffold
No two properties are the same, so scaffold pricing varies from job to job. Costs are mainly affected by:
- How high and wide the scaffold needs to be
- The shape of the property (e.g., bay windows require additional work)
- Whether it’s a single elevation or multiple sides of the property
- Ease of access, especially if we cannot park close to the building
Scaffolding is heavy, and if we need to manually carry equipment a long distance, additional labour time may be required.
2. The Hire Period (How long you need it)
Most scaffolding quotes include a standard hire period — typically around 6 weeks.
If your project runs longer, there is usually a weekly hire charge, generally 5–10% of the original job cost per week.
At TomRed, we agree this upfront, so there are no unexpected additions later.
3. Safety Requirements & Regulations
Safety always comes first. Every scaffold must comply with UK Health & Safety Regulations and TG20:21 guidance.
Some projects may require additional safety accessories, including:
- Debris netting
- Foam sleeves or tube caps
- Scaffold alarms or lighting
- Temporary fencing or barriers
- Brickguards
- A protected lower lift (to safeguard pedestrians)
If your project needs these, we will include the cost clearly.
4. Location & Ground Conditions
The environment around your property can also affect pricing:
- Narrow or restricted access
- Sloped or uneven ground
- Busy public spaces
- Limited vehicle access
- Jobs outside our usual working radius
We always survey the site so we can provide an accurate and fair quote based on real conditions.
5. Permits & Traffic Control (If Required)
If scaffolding is erected on a pavement or road, council permits may be required.
In some cases, temporary traffic lights or road closures are also necessary.
These costs vary by council, but we will:
- Handle the application
- Arrange the permit
- Explain the cost upfront
- Keep you updated at every stage
No surprises — ever.
6. Optional Extras (If Needed)
Some projects require specialist solutions. These may be costed separately:
- Temporary roof structures for weather protection
- Rubbish chutes
- Rope & wheel setups
- Ladder guards
- Ranch boarding for protection
- Hoists for lifting materials
- Edge protection for roof work
- Beams to span conservatories or porches
- Additional boarded lifts (top platform boarded is always included)
- Strengthened scaffolds for heavier loads (roof tiles etc)
- Weekly scaffold inspections
- Full scaffold design drawings
Again — we will always tell you costs in advance if any of these apply.
So, What’s Included in a Basic Scaffolding Quote?
✅ Scaffold supply and installation
✅ All materials and fixings (boards, ladders, gates, handrails etc)
✅ Safe erection by fully trained CISRS professionals
✅ Dismantling and removal once the job is complete
✅ A standard hire period (usually 6 weeks)
✅ Clear communication from start to finish
In Summary
Scaffolding costs depend mainly on the size, duration, location, and specific safety needs of the job. At TomRed Scaffolding Ltd, we ensure:
- No hidden charges
- No unclear extras
- No confusion
Just fair, transparent pricing and a reliable, friendly service.
Why Choose TomRed Scaffolding?
✅ Clear pricing with no hidden extras
✅ Flexible scheduling to suit your project timeline
✅ Family-run with 40+ years of experience
✅ Fully insured & CHAS accredited
✅ Competitive pricing without compromising on quality or saftey
Want to know the cost for your project?