Can My Neighbour Stop Me Putting Up Scaffolding?

Are you planning home repairs that need scaffolding? Worried your neighbour might stop you from putting it up, potentially delaying your project? In this article, we explain when you need your neighbour’s permission to install scaffolding, especially if it affects their property.

So, can my neighbour stop me putting up scaffolding? The short answer is no. If the scaffolding stays within your property boundary, you don’t need their permission. But if you need to access or place scaffolding on their land, you must ask — and they have the right to refuse.

Keep reading to understand your rights and your neighbour’s rights when it comes to scaffolding.

Can a Neighbour Stop Me From Using Scaffolding?

Your neighbour cannot stop you from erecting scaffolding on your own property. However, sometimes you’ll need to cross onto their land to set up the scaffolding. If you get along well, asking for permission shouldn’t be an issue.

Situations where you might need to access a neighbour’s land include:

• Complex repair or maintenance work
• Large-scale repairs
• Location of the work requiring scaffolding near or over boundaries

In these cases, your neighbour can refuse access. They can also object if the scaffolding significantly impacts their daily life. But what happens if your neighbour denies access?

Can a Neighbour Refuse Access for Scaffolding?

If your scaffolding needs to touch or go onto your neighbour’s property, you must ask for permission. If they refuse but the work is essential (like fixing blocked drains), you have legal options. You can apply for an Access Order from the court or pursue a Party Wall Agreement.

What is a Scaffolding Access Order?

An Access Order lets you legally enter your neighbour’s property to carry out necessary repairs without trespassing. This applies mainly to essential maintenance work.

Remember, accessing your neighbour’s land without permission is trespassing and can lead to legal consequences.

A Party Wall Agreement is needed if scaffolding affects a shared wall (common in terraced or semi-detached houses). This agreement must be arranged before starting work.

When Can Scaffolding Access Be Denied?

Your neighbour or the court might refuse access if:

• The work is just an enhancement (e.g., building a conservatory for leisure). Courts favour access for necessary repairs, not improvements.
• The neighbour would suffer significant disruption or interference from the scaffolding.

What Are My Scaffolding Rights?

You have the right to put up scaffolding on your property for essential repairs like fixing a leaking roof. While scaffolding rules must be followed, most of the time, simply asking your neighbour for access is enough to get started.

Helpful Scaffolding Rules and Tips

We cover many scaffolding questions on our blog, such as:

• When Is Scaffolding Required?
• Types of Scaffolding and Their Uses
• Do You Need Scaffolding to Replace Windows?

Home renovation is exciting, but it comes with rules. Read our complete guide to scaffolding regulations to keep your project running smoothly.

Erect Your Scaffolding with Hi-Point Access

Hi-Point Access is Sheffield’s trusted scaffolding company, providing traditional, aluminium, and indoor scaffolding solutions. No job is too complex for our expert team.

Contact us today for a free scaffolding quote tailored to your property needs.