Estimate scaffolding hire costs for any UK property. Get a quick price guide based on property type, number of floors, scaffold length and hire duration.
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Try QuoteSmith Free for 7 DaysGuide prices for standard scaffolding hire in the UK (erect, dismantle and 6 weeks hire included).
| Property Type | 1-2 Floors | 3+ Floors | Extra Week |
|---|---|---|---|
| Terraced House (front only) | £400 - £700 | £700 - £1,100 | £50 - £75 |
| Semi-Detached House | £600 - £1,000 | £1,000 - £1,600 | £75 - £100 |
| Detached House | £900 - £1,500 | £1,500 - £2,500 | £100 - £150 |
| Commercial Property | £1,200 - £2,500 | £2,500 - £5,000+ | £100 - £200 |
| Chimney Stack Only | £400 - £800 | £40 - £60 | |
| Single Elevation (any property) | £300 - £600 | £40 - £75 | |
Scaffolding is often one of the most significant additional costs on a building project, yet many tradespeople and homeowners underestimate it. Understanding how scaffolding is priced helps you budget accurately and quote correctly when scaffolding is needed for a job.
Most scaffolding companies charge a single price for erection and dismantling, which includes the first 6-8 weeks of hire. After this initial period, a weekly hire charge applies. The erection/dismantling cost is the largest component, covering labour, transport, and the scaffolding materials themselves.
Several factors influence scaffolding costs beyond the obvious size of the scaffold:
Plan your project carefully to minimise the hire duration. Get your scaffolding erected just before you need it and arrange dismantling promptly when finished. Get 2-3 quotes from local scaffolders, and ask about their weekly hire rate upfront. If you use scaffolding regularly, building a relationship with a reliable scaffolding company can lead to better rates. When quoting jobs that need scaffolding, always include it as a separate line item in your proposals using tools like QuoteSmith.
Common questions about scaffolding costs in the UK.
Scaffolding typically costs £400-£800 for a terraced house, £600-£1,200 for a semi-detached, and £1,000-£2,500+ for a detached house. These prices usually include erection, dismantling and the first 6 weeks of hire. Additional weeks cost £50-£150 depending on the scaffold size.
Key factors include property type and size, number of floors, length of scaffold run, hire duration, ease of access, height required, whether it goes over a public footpath, and your location. Complex requirements like uneven ground or access over conservatories increase costs.
Most scaffolding companies include the first 6-8 weeks in their initial price. After that, weekly hire charges apply (typically £50-£150/week). There is no maximum hire period, but extended hires become expensive. Negotiate the weekly rate upfront.
Yes, if scaffolding encroaches on a public footpath or road, you need a licence from your local council (typically £50-£200). This is usually the scaffolding contractor's responsibility but may be charged to you. Apply early to avoid project delays.
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