This is a common question we get asked all of the time, what is right for your home? With over 2 decades of experience in the field Skipton Scaffolds are expertly placed to share our top five tips for erecting scaffolding for home use!
1. Who are the scaffolders?
Make sure that your quotes are secured from reputable, honest suppliers. Google now makes this process much simpler and nothing can be excellent word of mouth referrals from family and friends. As with any trade however, there are elements that want to send a team of scaffolders and get the job done. Scaffolding on a roof is a dangerous job and ensuring your safety and those working on the structure should always be at the forefront of any prospective service provider. Facebook might seem like a good place to ask people for recommendations but always carry out due diligence on anyone who offers there services. IF you’re not sure, never pay upfront, instead wait until the day the scaffolding is taken down; a common trap is for people to be left with the scaffolding on their property indefinitely. We receive calls often to remove a structure that’s been left up, which for Health and Safety reasons we struggle to do.
2. Pavement License
If your property needs a pavement license, then get one; the costs incurred if this isn’t secured can quickly mount up. Especially if this has been erected quickly by a scaffolder found on FaceBook they will need the proper insurance and permits to erect it on an Highways adopted road. If you’re not sure; always ask. These costs can be found easily on your local authorities website and, for ourselves, we never add a charge on to what costs we incur. Remember that all licenses will have VAT added on
3. Involve your Contractor
If you’re getting the quote for your property be sure to consult with your builder / contractor before reaching out to us. We have the expertise to erect a scaffold however it is required, but if we don’t know in advance then we can’t allow for that eventuality. An example? Whilst erecting scaffolding to a property in Skipton we were not told that the exterior was to be completely re-rendered; only that the gutters were being changed. We asked again to make sure but were told that, on this occasion, it was just the gutters. We erected the scaffolding to suit this purpose only to be told a week later that the whole structure needing boards on every lift and could we please adjust it. The homeowner was apologetic and we provided the lifts, at an additional cost.
4. Prepare your Property
Make sure that the area where scaffolding is required is free of any obstructions prior to the scaffolders arrival. Any structure or obstruction that can’t be moved will likely increase the price of your quote or worse still if the area isn’t safe no work can begin. Another consideration should always be your neighbours, make sure they’re aware of any work you’re having done. If the structure or access is required through their property then make them aware; this can save time and hassle later down the line.
5. Know who you’re paying
A common issue we have as a scaffolding service is when people ask their tradesman to organise the scaffold. This means our contract is with them, not with you. It is their responsibility to pay the bills, otherwise the structure can be left up indefinitely whilst we chase someone for payment we haven’t received. When they price for the work, not only including the scaffolding company cost but other materials; offer to pay these invoices direct to the supplier. This way you have peace of mind that, no matter what, the scaffolding can be taken down without delay when you need it most.
For more help and information please feel free to contact our expert team at any time.