How to choose a scaffolder

Training and trade bodies

Look for members of the National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC). Scaffolders’ CISRS cards show their level of training. Ask to see them.

Licences, handover and inspections

Scaffolding on a pavement or road needs a licence from the council. The scaffolder usually applies for it, and the fee is normally added to your quote.

When the scaffold is up, you should get a handover certificate. Under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, a scaffold must be inspected before first use, after any change or bad weather, and at least every seven days while it is in use.

Get quotes in writing

Ask two or three firms to quote for the same job, in writing. A quote is a fixed price. An estimate is only a best guess, and the final bill can be higher.

The quote should say what is included: materials, waste removal, making good, and any access equipment.

Check insurance and pay in stages

Ask to see their public liability insurance. Agree staged payments tied to finished work. A deposit for materials is normal on bigger jobs, but avoid paying the full price before the work starts.

Your rights

Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, a trader must do the work with reasonable care and skill, in a reasonable time, and for a reasonable price if no price was agreed.

If you agree the job in your own home, you usually have 14 days to cancel under the Consumer Contracts Regulations 2013. If you ask for work to start sooner, you may have to pay for work already done.

For free advice on a problem with a trader, contact the Citizens Advice consumer helpline. In Northern Ireland, contact Consumerline.

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