These figures are illustrative, not quotes
What affects the cost
Before looking at any numbers, it helps to understand the variables that move the price. These are what a roofer weighs up when pricing the job.
Height and number of storeys
A two- or three-storey elevation needs much more material and labour to erect safely than a single-storey one. Height is the first thing that moves the price.
How much of the building is covered
Scaffolding to one elevation for a small repair costs far less than a full wrap around the whole property for a re-roof. The linear metres and lifts required drive the cost.
Hire period
Scaffolding is priced with an initial erect-and-dismantle cost plus a hire period (often the first few weeks included). A job that overruns, or one that needs the scaffold up for months, costs more in extended hire.
Access, ground and permits
Awkward ground, restricted access, or scaffolding that oversails a pavement or public highway can require a licence from the council and extra measures, all of which add to the cost.
Complexity and safety requirements
Bridging over conservatories, extra loading bays, protective fans or edge protection for steep work all add material and time.
Illustrative cost ranges
Illustrative — not a quoteThe ranges below are a starting point for understanding likely costs. Treat them as ballpark figures for setting expectations, not as a price for your job.
Illustrative scaffolding ranges — not quotes. Height, coverage and hire period are the key variables.
| Scope | Typical illustrative range | Main cost driver |
|---|---|---|
| One elevation, single storey | £400 – £900 | Length and access |
| One elevation, two storey | £600 – £1,300 | Height |
| Full wrap, typical semi | £800 – £2,000 | Coverage and lifts |
| Full wrap, larger detached | £1,500 – £3,500+ | Size and complexity |
| Pavement licence (where required) | £50 – £150+ | Local authority fees |
What’s usually included
Typically included
- Delivery, erection and later dismantling of the scaffold
- An initial hire period (often the first few weeks)
- Standard safety features such as guard rails and toe boards
- A basic scaffold inspection where required
Often not included
- Extended hire if the roofing job overruns
- Council licences for oversailing a pavement or highway
- Extra measures such as bridging, fans or loading bays
- The roofing work itself — scaffolding is access only
Get a price for your roof
The only way to know what your job will cost is a quote from a roofer who has seen it. Get a free, no-obligation quote from a trusted local roofer.
