Do I Need Scaffolding for a Roof Repair?

If you’re planning a roof repair—whether it’s a few tiles or a full ridge section—it’s natural to ask if scaffolding is necessary, most people getting or having a roof repair will always ask. While every job is different, the simple answer is that most roof repairs do require some form of scaffolding.

Why Is Scaffolding Used for Roof Repairs?

Roof repairs involve working at height, which presents significant safety risks. Scaffolding provides a stable, secure platform that allows roofers to move freely, carry tools, and complete tasks efficiently.

Key reasons for using scaffolding include:

Safety: Prevents falls and accidents on sloped or unstable surfaces.
Stability: Offers a solid work area compared to ladders or temporary platforms.
Access: Allows workers to reach tricky or high sections of the roof.
Efficiency: Reduces time lost setting up and moving temporary access.

Even if the job appears minor, scaffolding may still be the safest and most efficient option.

Legal Requirements: Is Scaffolding Mandatory?

Scaffolding is not always a strict legal requirement, but UK law does require that any work at height must be carried out safely. This is stated under the Work at Height Regulations 2005.

If using ladders or other equipment cannot provide a safe working environment, then scaffolding becomes necessary by law. A risk assessment should be completed before the work begins. For most roof repair tasks—especially those involving full sections, chimneys, or difficult access—scaffolding is the only realistic way to meet safety standards.

Roof Repairs That Typically Require Scaffolding

Some small jobs might not need a scaffold, but many common roof repairs do. These include:

Tile or slate replacement on pitched roofs
Ridge tile repointing or rebedding
Chimney repairs or lead flashing work
Flat roof repairs above single-storey extensions
Valley and guttering repairs on multi-storey buildings
Storm damage repairs involving unstable structures

In many of these cases, ladders or tower systems don’t offer the coverage, height, or stability required to carry out the job safely.

Can I Use a Ladder Instead?

Ladders can sometimes be used for short-duration tasks on single-storey properties, but they come with strict safety limitations:

You must maintain three points of contact at all times.
You cannot carry heavy tools or materials while climbing.
Ladders cannot be used for long-duration or physically demanding work.
Uneven ground or bad weather can increase risk.

For roofing, most professionals avoid ladders except for quick inspections. In almost all other situations, scaffolding is the preferred—and safer—option.

Scaffolding for Emergency Roof Repairs

Urgent repairs caused by storm damage or leaks may require scaffolding to be set up quickly. In such cases, many scaffolding companies offer emergency callout services to make the property safe and prevent further damage.

Some scaffolding systems can be installed the same day, especially for temporary access. These might include:

Small towers for single-storey access
Edge protection systems to secure roof perimeters
Short-run scaffolds for localised repairs

If you’re not sure what you need, contact us here for quick advice and a tailored recommendation.

Does Scaffolding Add Much to the Cost?

It depends on the scale of the repair. For basic residential scaffolding, costs are usually quite manageable and can start from around £300–£600 for a short-term setup. Larger scaffolds for multi-storey properties or full roof jobs will cost more, especially if they require a pavement licence.

The benefits of scaffolding often outweigh the extra cost, especially when considering:

Faster project completion
Reduced risk of injury or legal issues
Improved access and safety for trades
Better-quality workmanship due to improved working conditions

Do I Need a Licence for Scaffolding?

Only if the scaffolding extends onto a public footpath or road. In these cases, your scaffolding contractor will apply for a scaffold licence from the local authority. For example, in Kent this is usually handled by Kent County Council.

Most roof repair scaffolds are set up within private property boundaries, so no licence is needed. Still, it’s best to confirm this with your scaffolding provider ahead of time.

How Long Does Roof Repair Scaffolding Stay Up?

The scaffold is usually in place for the duration of the roof repair. For smaller jobs, this might be 2–3 days. For larger or weather-dependent projects, it could be a week or more.

Scaffolding must be inspected:

Before use
Every 7 days
After bad weather

A professional company will handle these checks and keep inspection records up to date.

Who Is Responsible for Safety?

Both the roofing contractor and the scaffolding provider have legal responsibilities. The scaffolder must ensure that:

The scaffold is erected by qualified staff (usually CISRS-certified)
It meets all HSE standards
Safety features such as guardrails and toe boards are in place
Inspection records are kept on-site

The roofing team must also use the scaffold properly and not alter it without permission.

You can see examples of well-maintained roof scaffolds and project setups on our Instagram, where we post regular updates.

Summary, Do You Need Scaffolding for Roof Repairs?

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Yes, in most cases: Especially for work on pitched roofs, chimneys, and upper storeys.
Ladders are rarely suitable: Unsafe for long or complex tasks.
It’s about safety, not just preference: Scaffolding is the only way to meet legal safety requirements in many cases.
The added cost is small compared to the benefits: Improved safety, access, and efficiency.
Professional advice is key: If you’re unsure, speak to a local scaffolder.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re planning a roof repair and want clear advice on safe access, we can help. We’ll assess your property, provide a no-obligation quote, and install scaffold systems tailored to your job.