Scaffold Inspection Requirements — What You Need to Know
Every scaffold on a UK site — whether at a private home or commercial premises — must be inspected regularly to ensure it remains safe and compliant.
These rules aren’t optional: they’re set out in law under the Work at Height Regulations 2005.
At B-MAT Scaffolding, safety is at the heart of everything we do.
In this guide, we explain what’s legally required, how often scaffolds must be inspected, and what you can expect from a professional inspection.
The Legal Framework — Work at Height Regulations 2005
UK scaffolding inspections are governed by the Work at Height Regulations 2005, specifically Regulation 12.
This regulation states that scaffolds must be inspected:
-
Before first use after erection or any substantial alteration
-
At least every 7 days while in use
-
After any event that could affect stability — e.g. strong winds, heavy rain, or impact
Failure to comply can lead to enforcement action by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), fines, or even prosecution if an accident occurs.
Who Can Carry Out a Scaffold Inspection?
Only a competent person may inspect a scaffold.
According to the HSE, this means someone with:
-
Appropriate training, knowledge, and experience in scaffold design and erection
-
The ability to identify hazards and defects
-
The authority to take prompt corrective action
In practice, inspections are normally carried out by:
-
A qualified scaffolder holding a CISRS card
-
A site supervisor or safety officer trained in scaffold inspection
-
A specialist external inspector for larger or complex structures
At B-MAT Scaffolding, our team includes fully certified inspectors who issue formal inspection reports after every check.
Frequency of Scaffold Inspections
Scaffolds must be inspected:
-
Every 7 days while in service
-
Immediately after erection and before anyone works on it
-
After any modification or adaptation
-
After severe weather (high winds, storms, heavy snow)
-
After an incident such as vehicle impact or material strike
Each inspection must be recorded, dated, and signed by the competent person.
Scaffold Inspection Records
The law requires a written inspection record to be kept on site (or accessible electronically) until the scaffold is dismantled.
This record must include:
-
The location and description of the scaffold
-
The date, time, and result of each inspection
-
The name and position of the inspector
-
Any defects found and actions taken
These records are often checked by main contractors, insurers, or the HSE during site visits.
What Inspectors Check
During a standard inspection, the following areas are reviewed:
-
Foundations and sole plates for level and stability
-
Standards and ledgers for plumb and tightness
-
Bracing and ties correctly installed and secure
-
Guardrails and toe boards present on all working platforms
-
Access points and ladders safely fixed and unobstructed
-
Boards in good condition and properly supported
-
Protection measures (fans, netting, barriers) in place
-
Load limits not exceeded
Any defects must be reported immediately and the scaffold must not be used until made safe.
Domestic vs Commercial Scaffold Inspections
Even if the scaffold is erected at a private home, the same inspection standards apply.
If a homeowner employs contractors (roofers, builders, painters, etc.), the duty of inspection lies with the contractor using the scaffold — not the homeowner.
On commercial sites, inspections are usually arranged by the principal contractor or site manager, but can be delegated to the scaffolding company.
At B-MAT Scaffolding, we provide initial and weekly inspections for every scaffold we erect, complete with detailed reports for client records.
Why Scaffold Inspections Are So Important
Regular inspections:
-
Prevent accidents caused by movement or wear
-
Ensure compliance with HSE and insurance requirements
-
Detect damage early, saving time and cost
-
Protect workers and the public from falls or debris
Ignoring inspection requirements risks both lives and legal consequences.
B-MAT Scaffolding — Safe, Compliant, Professional
When you hire scaffolding from B-MAT, inspections are built into our service:
-
Initial inspection upon erection
-
Weekly safety checks
-
Post-weather event re-inspections if required
-
Digital reports for your records
Our scaffolders are CISRS-qualified, and all work meets TG20:21 and SG4 industry standards.
We provide complete peace of mind for clients across London, Essex and Hertfordshire — from small domestic setups to major commercial sites.
Get a Quote or Safety Consultation
Need safe, compliant scaffolding with full inspection coverage?
Contact B-MAT Scaffolding today for a free consultation or site visit.
We’ll ensure your access solution meets every safety and legal requirement.
Call, email, or request a quote online — we’ll take care of everything from design and erection to inspection and certification.
