Who pays for scaffolding?

Almost always the main contractor as a prelim. Build it into the contract sum rather than treating as an extra; otherwise it becomes a contentious mid-project variation.

How long is scaffold up for?

Single-storey rear: 8–12 weeks. Double-storey: 14–18 weeks. Loft conversion: 10–14 weeks. Long durations cost more — finishing internal works before scaffold strike saves rental.

Do I need a highways licence?

Yes if scaffold occupies any public footpath or road. Borough fee £80–£250/month plus a pedestrian gantry to keep the pavement walkable.

Does Builderr include scaffold in quotes?

Yes — itemised in prelims with duration, weekly extension rate and licence cost clearly stated.

Quick Answer

How much does scaffolding cost for a London extension?

Scaffolding for a London extension typically costs £1,800–£6,500. Single-storey rear: £1,800–£3,200 for 8–12 week hire. Double-storey or wraparound: £3,500–£5,500. Loft conversion: £2,400–£4,200. Tight access, party-wall hoists or roof-edge protection on shared boundaries can add £800–£1,500. Most London scaffolders price per week after the first 8 weeks at £80–£180/week.

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What drives the cost

Three factors: height (eaves, ridge, chimney access), footprint (rear-only vs wraparound), and duration. Tight London terraces with no rear access add manual carry premiums of £300–£800. Roof-edge protection for loft work adds £400–£900. Pavement licence from the borough (where scaffold crosses public footpath) costs £80–£250/month.

Typical packages

Single-storey rear with eaves protection: £1,800–£3,200 + £80–£140/week beyond week 8. Two-storey side return: £3,500–£5,500 + £120–£180/week. Loft with chimney access: £2,400–£4,200 + £100–£160/week. Wraparound or unusual geometry: priced bespoke.

Hidden costs

Highways licence (TfL or borough), pedestrian gantry if scaffold occupies pavement (£200–£600 setup), public liability insurance certificates, and adapt-mid-job charges (£300–£600 each visit) if structural design changes during build. Build these into the prelims line of your contract.

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