How much does scaffolding cost?

Scaffold hire prices depend on several factors, including the length of the job, the type of construction work and the size of the scaffold. You can rent scaffolding for a few hundred dollars per week. Expect to pay between $700 and $2000 per week to rent scaffolding, depending on how tall you need it to be. For shorter projects, such as a day or two, scaffold hire will be charged by the hour. In these cases, expect to pay around $30 to $100 an hour to hire scaffolding.

Below is the average cost of a scaffolding job in different Australian states:

State	Average Cost
NSW	$3250
VIC	$2500
WA	$1500
QLD	$2100

 

Provides support during construction

When workers are repairing or renovating a structure, there are always some safety risks. However, when workers use a scaffold, they are put on a stable, balanced footing, and they reduce the risk of falling or hurting pedestrians with falling debris.

A safer alternative to ladders

Ladders are suitable for specific tasks that don’t require a lot of movement. However, when workers use a scaffolding, they are given a firm platform and the ability to move freely around a structure while remaining well-balanced. 

Flexible

The right scaffolding allows workers some flexibility. Using a scaffolding makes it possible to access various sides and angles on a building.

Size of the project/renovation

Commercial scaffolding prices are often costlier than domestic projects. This is because commercial properties tend to be larger than other sites. You might need more than one scaffold if the area is particularly large. If the site is on uneven ground, you will need a fixed scaffold, which sometimes costs more than a wheeled scaffold. 

Height of the scaffolding required

Most scaffolding projects don’t require a scaffold taller than four metres. One storey houses typically only need short scaffolds. If you have a tall home, then you need a taller than average scaffold and will typically be charged more. 

Length of time required

Most scaffolding projects are charged a weekly fee. A complicated task, such as renovations to a large structure, will take more time to complete. Therefore, lengthier projects tend to cost more. 

Hiring a freelancer or through a company

In general, the scaffold hire rates for a freelance scaffolder will cost less than hiring through a company. Expect to pay about $30 to $50 per hour for a direct scaffold hire. However, if you hire through a labour company, expect to pay more for this service. Hiring through a company will cost you about $50 to $100 per hour. You can also expect to pay $35 to $50 per hour for scaffolding installation.

 

 

1-2 metre scaffold

On average, a scaffolding measuring about 1.3 metres in width and 2.5 metres long will cost approximately $700 to $1000 per week to rent. Expect to pay $2,600 to $3,000 to purchase a scaffold 1-2 metres high. 

3-4 metre scaffold

Expect to pay approximately $900 to $1400 per week to rent scaffolding measuring 3-4 metres tall, 1.3m wide and 2.5m in length. You will spend roughly $3800 to purchase a scaffold of that size. 

5-6 metre scaffold

The scaffolding hire cost tends to increase significantly as the platform height increases. Height of over 4 metres is not commonly used in residential scaffolding, though it is quite common on commercial construction sites. Expect to pay up to $1200 to $2000 for a 5-6 metre scaffold.

7+ metre scaffold

A scaffold measuring 7 metres or taller is considered uncommonly tall for domestic projects. The cost of scaffolding per metre for such a tall scaffold is especially costly if required for home renovations. 

How to create an accurate estimate

• Estimate the height of the scaffold needed.
• Get quotes from several companies and freelancers.
• Ask about hourly rates.
• Ask about extra fees for assembly.
• Ask about additional charges for pickup and delivery.

Licensing and qualifications

In Australia, most territories require one of three licences:

• Basic scaffolding work
• Intermediate scaffolding work
• Advanced scaffolding work

In most cases, the type of scaffolding licence required depends on the following:

• The type of scaffold being erected and dismantled
• The types of accessory equipment used (e.g. ropes, wheels, ramps, etc.) 
• The safety risks and degree of injury risks for the type of work being completed

In general, you will need to do the following to apply for a scaffolding licence in Australia, though requirements may vary slightly by state or territory:

• Complete a classroom training course. 
• Complete worksite training requirements.
• Pass some form of assessment or inspection from the government.
• Complete a written application.

• Get an upfront estimate from several companies and freelancers to compare scaffolding hire rates.
• Only hire a worker or company that has liability insurance.
• Have the worker visit the construction site before giving a quote. This ensures that he or she knows what type of scaffolding is needed and can, therefore provide a more accurate quote.
• Ask about fees, such as hourly charges or scaffolding assembly fees.

 

 

* The cost data is based on Oneflare and third-party sources