Chimney Scaffold Hire: Cost, Safety & Installation Guide
Working on a chimney is one of the most difficult and high-risk tasks on any property. Chimneys are positioned at awkward heights, often on steep or fragile roof slopes, where ladders or makeshift access are unsafe. Professional chimney scaffold provides a secure working platform, allowing builders and roofers to complete repairs, repointing, leadwork, flue installations and even full chimney removals safely and efficiently.
This guide explains everything you need to know about scaffolding for chimney access — including when you need it, how it is installed, pricing factors, compliance requirements and why hiring a professional scaffolding company is essential.
Why Chimney Scaffold Hire Is Essential
Chimneys are commonly found on the ridge line, mid-roof positions, or between adjoining properties. All of these locations are hazardous without a stable platform. Choosing a professional chimney scaffold hire service ensures:
1. Safe Working Conditions
A properly erected scaffold includes guard rails, toe boards and secure access points, preventing falls from height and allowing tradespeople to work confidently.
2. Access to All Sides of the Chimney
Some projects require access to one face only, while others need a full wrap-around working platform. Chimney scaffolding allows precise access exactly where it is needed.
3. Better Efficiency and Workmanship
A stable platform enables builders to use tools safely, handle materials securely, and complete tasks such as repointing, lead flashing replacement or demolition more quickly and with better quality.
When Do You Need Chimney Access Scaffolding?
You may require chimney scaffold hire for any of the following:
- Brickwork repointing
- Lead flashing installation or replacement
- Waterproofing or painting
- Flue or liner installation
- Chimney stack demolition (partial or full)
- General inspections and maintenance
If your chimney is unusually tall, located between two buildings, placed in the centre of the roof, or simply difficult to reach safely, chimney scaffolding becomes essential to meet both safety and legal requirements.
Types of Chimney Access Scaffolding
Different projects require different access structures. The two most common options include:
1. Chimney Access from One Side
A simple access tower is positioned next to the roof to reach the front face of the chimney. Ideal for small repair tasks or isolated work.
2. Full Wrap-Around Working Platform
A complete working platform is erected around all sides of the chimney. This is required for full repointing, demolition, leadwork replacement, painting and any task demanding 360° access.
Your scaffolding provider will determine whether the structure needs to be supported from the ground, saddled over the roof, or stabilised between neighbouring walls.
What Type of Scaffolding Do We Use?
At Jaku Scaffolding, all chimney access platforms are built using tube and fitting scaffolding, the most flexible system for complicated roof structures. This allows us to create a bespoke design tailored to the exact shape and height of your chimney.
Every scaffold is erected using high-quality materials and by fully qualified scaffolders who follow TG20:21 compliance guidelines. The result is a durable, safe and reliable temporary access solution for tasks such as flue lining, brick repairs, painting and roof-level maintenance.
Chimney Scaffold Hire Pricing Guide
Every chimney is different, and the cost of chimney scaffold hire depends on several factors:
- Chimney stack height
- Chimney position (centre of roof, side, or between properties)
- Roof pitch, gable height or roof complexity
- Number of sides requiring access
- Whether a roof saddle is needed
- Number of boards and lift heights
- Site access for our team
Because these variables differ across properties, pricing is only confirmed after a site visit.
We always aim to provide cost-effective, tailored quotes, and we include 12 weeks’ hire as standard with all chimney scaffolding installations.
Safety, Compliance & Technical Requirements
Chimney scaffolding must meet strict safety standards to ensure stability and fall protection. Key TG20-compliant requirements include:
- Galvanised steel tubes, Class A or high-tensile, TG20-approved
- Maximum bay length: 2.0 metres
- Maximum platform width: four boards
- Secure access via a tower or independent scaffold
- Roof standards placed on bearing boards spanning at least two rafters
- Full edge protection: double guard rails and toe boards
- Triple guard rail at access points, where needed
- Plan bracing for long walkways
- Scaffold tied securely to the roof structure, or buttressed with rakers if ties are not possible
- Boards securely fixed to prevent uplift
- Maximum working load: 1.5 kN/m² (Light Duty)
A structural engineer may be required to assess whether your roof can safely support the scaffold, depending on the installation type.
Chimney Scaffold Installation Process
Our installation process ensures safety, compliance and reliability at every stage:
1. Site Assessment
Our estimator inspects the chimney’s location, the roof structure and the access points to design the most suitable scaffold.
2. Scaffold Erection
Our fully trained scaffolders erect the structure using TG20-compliant methods, ensuring stability and safe access for all trades.
3. Handover Certificate
Once installed, we issue a handover inspection confirming the scaffold is ready and safe for use.
Looking for Safe and Reliable Chimney Scaffold Hire?
Jaku Scaffolding provides professional, affordable and compliant chimney scaffold hire across London, Kent and Essex. Whether you need access to one side of the chimney or a full wrap-around working platform, we design and install a safe solution tailored to your property.
Contact Us for a Free Quote
Phone: 07585 191728
Email: info@jakuscaffolding.co.uk
Related Scaffolding Services
Projects involving chimney work often require additional access solutions or supporting structures. Explore our related services below:
- Residential Scaffolding
Safe scaffolding for homes, roof work, extensions and loft conversions. - Roof Access Scaffolding
Ideal for difficult roofs and high chimneys requiring secure access. - Scaffolding Hire Services
View our full range of scaffolding options for domestic and commercial projects. - About Jaku Scaffolding
Learn more about our experience, safety standards and professional team. - Areas We Cover
We provide chimney scaffold hire across London, Kent and Essex.
