Elevation Access Ltd - The Homeowner’s Guide to Hiring a SCAFFOLDING COMPANY

When planning home improvements - from roofing and gutter repairs to extensions, painting, chimneys or full renovations - hiring the right scaffolding company is one of the most important decisions you’ll make.

Scaffolding is the foundation of a safe project. When it’s done professionally, everything else runs smoothly. When it’s done cheaply or incorrectly, the risks fall directly onto the homeowner.

This guide by Elevation Access Ltd explains exactly what to look for when choosing a scaffolding company in the UK, the legal responsibilities involved, and how to make sure you’re fully protected throughout your project.

1. CHOOSE A COMPANY WITH THE RIGHT TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

A reputable scaffolding company should have:

• CISRS-trained, competent scaffolders

• Experience working on domestic homes across the UK

• Strong understanding of TG20:2024 standards and NASC guidance

• A portfolio of recent work

• A clear, professional approach from first contact

Skilled scaffolders complete work more safely, more efficiently, and with far fewer complications.

 2. SAFETY MUST ALWAYS BE THE PRIORITY

Professional scaffolding companies must take safety extremely seriously. This includes:

• Proper scaffold tags and inspection procedures

• Use of correct ties, guardrails, toe boards and stabilisers

• TG20:2024 compliance for standard structures

• Protective measures to safeguard your roof, gutters, driveways and garden

• Safe access points and secure ladders

• Weather considerations

If a company can’t explain their safety process clearly, avoid them.

3.  GET A TRANSPARENT, ITEMISED QUOTE

A reliable scaffolding company will provide you with a clear, transparent quote that covers:

• Erection and dismantling

• The exact hire period

• Any additional costs if the hire needs extending

• Whether a bespoke scaffolding design is required

• Access considerations or constraints

Transparent pricing builds trust and avoids unexpected charges later.

 4.  CHECK INSURANCE AND LEGAL COMPLIANCE

Before hiring any contractor, ensure they have:

• Public liability insurance

• Employer’s liability insurance

• A strong safety record

• Knowledge of CDM 2015 (Construction Design and Management Regulations)

Proper insurance protects your home, your tradespeople, and anyone on site.

5.  WHY HIRING A “CHEAP” SCAFFOLDING COMPANY CAN MAKE YOU THE PRINCIPAL CONTRACTOR

Many homeowners don’t realise that under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015), hiring a cheap, unqualified or non-compliant scaffolding company can shift legal responsibility onto you, the homeowner.

WHEN DOES THIS HAPPEN?

If a company does not:

• Provide competent workers

• Follow safety standards

• Manage the risks properly

• Produce required documentation

• Take control of the project as the contractor

…then you become the “Principal Contractor” by default.

WHAT DOES THIS LEGALLY MEAN?

You could become responsible for:

• Ensuring the scaffold is safe and compliant

• Checking inspections and safety tags

• Coordinating trades on site

• Managing site security

• Ensuring only competent people access the scaffold

• Addressing risks and hazards

Failing to meet these obligations can lead to:

• Legal action

• Fines

• Investigation if someone is injured

• Insurance claims being rejected

A “cheap” scaffolding company can become extremely expensive if something goes wrong.

HOW PROFESSIONAL COMPANIES PROTECT YOU

A competent, compliant scaffolding company like Elevation Access Ltd:

• Takes full responsibility under CDM

• Ensures all safety measures are met

• Provides proper documentation

• Completes scaffold inspections

• Manages risks on your behalf

• Keeps your project compliant with UK law

IN SHORT: HIRE CHEAP, PAY TWICE - HIRE UNSAFE, PAY LEGALLY.

6. LOOK FOR STRONG COMMUNICATION

A trustworthy company will:

• Explain how long installation and removal will take

• Tell you what areas need to be cleared

• Communicate clearly about access and parking

• Keep you updated if weather affects the schedule

• Coordinate smoothly with your builder or roofer

Good communication saves time, prevents misunderstandings, and reduces stress.

7.  CHECK REVIEWS AND LOCAL REPUTATION

Look for evidence of professionalism across:

• Google reviews

• Photos of recent domestic work

• Testimonials

• Recommendations from local trades

Companies serving London, Essex, Kent, Hertfordshire, Surrey and Buckinghamshire with consistently strong reviews are more likely to provide a reliable service.

8.  CHOOSE A COMPANY THAT PROTECTS YOUR HOME

A responsible scaffolding company like Elevation Access will:

• Protect driveways, roofs, gutters and windows

• Work carefully around gardens and landscaping

• Secure access points

• Keep the site tidy

• Ensure the scaffold is safe at all times

Your home should be left clean, safe, and properly protected throughout the hire period.

9.   WHY HIRING THE RIGHT SCAFFOLDING COMPANY MATTERS

When you choose a professional company, you get:

• A safer, compliant scaffold

• Faster work from trades

• Better project organisation

• Protection from weather (including temporary roofs)

• Lower risk of accidents or damage

• Minimal legal responsibility under CDM

A good scaffold isn’t just equipment - it’s peace of mind.

We hope this 'Elevation Access Ltd - the Homeowner's Guide to Hiring a Scaffolding Company' guide has proved useful.

NEED SCAFFOLDING FOR YOUR HOME IN 2026?

Elevation Access Ltd (www.elevationaccess.co.uk) provides safe, clean and fully compliant scaffolding services across:

LONDON, ESSEX, KENT, HERTFORDSHIRE, SURREY AND BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

Our CISRS-qualified team delivers professional scaffolding you can trust, with clear communication, transparent pricing, and complete CDM compliance.