How Much Does a LOLER Inspection Cost? UK Pricing Guide 2025
Understanding the cost of LOLER inspections is essential for budgeting and compliance planning. Whether you're a small business with a single hoist or a large operation with multiple cranes, inspection costs are an unavoidable part of using lifting equipment legally in the UK. This guide explains what you can expect to pay and what factors influence pricing.
Typical LOLER Inspection Costs
LOLER inspection pricing varies considerably based on equipment type, complexity, and location. While every provider structures their fees differently, typical price ranges for common equipment give you a baseline for budgeting purposes.
For a basic chain hoist or manual lifting tackle, expect to pay between £80 and £150 per examination. These simpler devices require less time to inspect thoroughly and are typically at the lower end of the pricing spectrum. Lifting accessories like slings, chains, and shackles generally cost £5 to £20 per item when examined alongside main equipment, though standalone accessory examinations may have minimum call-out fees.
Small overhead cranes (up to 5 tonnes capacity) typically cost £100 to £200 for a thorough examination. This covers single-beam cranes with straightforward configurations commonly found in smaller workshops and warehouses. Medium overhead cranes (5 to 20 tonnes) generally range from £100 to £200. These larger systems require more time to examine thoroughly due to increased complexity and the number of components.
Large overhead cranes (over 20 tonnes) can cost £100 to £300 or more, particularly for heavy-duty manufacturing or port operations. Complex configurations with multiple hoists, extended spans, or specialised features increase examination time and cost. Mobile cranes require £100 to £300 depending on capacity and complexity, with larger mobile cranes requiring more extensive examination of hydraulic systems, outriggers, and load charts.
Forklift trucks typically cost £50 to £100 per examination. Goods and passenger lifts range from £150 to £400 depending on capacity, travel height, and complexity. Mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) generally cost £50 to £100 per unit.
These are indicative prices, and actual costs vary by provider, location, and specific circumstances.
Factors That Affect Inspection Costs
Multiple variables influence what you'll pay for LOLER examinations. Equipment complexity is a major factor. A simple manual chain hoist takes perhaps thirty minutes to examine thoroughly, while a complex overhead crane with multiple hoists, extended runway, and sophisticated controls might require several hours. More time equals higher costs.
The capacity and size of equipment affects pricing because larger equipment has more components to examine, requires more detailed structural assessment, and often needs specialised testing equipment. A 50-tonne crane costs more to examine than a 2-tonne hoist, reflecting the additional work involved.
Location significantly impacts costs through travel time and expenses. Inspectors in central London or other major cities typically charge more than those in rural areas, reflecting higher business overheads. If your site is remote, expect travel surcharges. Equipment accessibility matters too. If the examiner can easily access all components, the work proceeds efficiently. Equipment in difficult locations, requiring scaffolding, or needing disassembly for proper inspection increases labour time and therefore cost.
The age and condition of equipment influences examination time. Well-maintained newer equipment is relatively quick to examine, while older equipment showing wear requires more detailed assessment. If equipment hasn't been examined for longer than the statutory period (because you've lapsed compliance), inspectors may charge premium rates due to the increased risk and liability involved.
The number of items being examined during a single visit affects per-unit costs. Most providers offer better rates when examining multiple pieces of equipment at one location because they save travel time. Examining ten hoists during one visit typically costs less per unit than ten separate visits.
Understanding What's Included
LOLER inspection prices normally cover specific services. The thorough examination itself includes visual inspection of all components, functional testing of safety devices, assessment of wear and deterioration, checking of load capacity markings, and evaluation of structural integrity. Most providers include the written report with their examination fee, detailing findings, any defects identified, recommendations for remedial action, and the next examination due date.
Travel within a provider's normal service area is typically included in quoted prices, though remote locations may attract surcharges. Some providers charge separately for travel beyond a certain radius from their base. Basic testing is included, such as checking brake function, testing limit switches, and verifying control operation. However, extensive load testing or specialised non-destructive testing usually costs extra.
What's normally not included in standard LOLER inspection costs are repairs or remedial work required to address defects found during examination, replacement of worn components, repainting or corrosion treatment, modifications to equipment, and additional visits if equipment fails and needs re-examination after repairs.
Clarify exactly what's included in quoted prices to avoid surprises when the invoice arrives.
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond the basic examination fee, other expenses may arise. If the examiner identifies defects requiring immediate attention, you'll face repair costs on top of the inspection fee. Minor issues might cost £100 to £300 to rectify, while major structural problems or component replacement could run into thousands of pounds.
Failed equipment that must be taken out of service requires re-examination after repairs before returning to operation. Some providers include one follow-up visit in their initial fee, but others charge for additional examinations. Equipment requiring emergency inspection outside normal schedules often attracts premium rates, typically 50-100% above standard fees, particularly for out-of-hours or weekend callouts.
Comprehensive service packages that include both LOLER examination and PUWER-compliant maintenance may cost more upfront but often provide better value by combining related services during single visits. Specialised testing such as ultrasonic testing, magnetic particle inspection, or dye penetrant testing for crack detection adds £200 to £500 or more depending on the scope required.
If your equipment is particularly dirty or inaccessible, you may need to pay for cleaning or access equipment hire before the examiner arrives. Most will refuse to examine equipment they cannot properly access or see clearly.
Comparing Quotes from Different Providers
When obtaining quotes for LOLER examinations, ensure you're comparing like-for-like. Request itemised quotes showing the examination fee, travel costs if applicable, report preparation and delivery, any testing included, and whether follow-up for minor issues is covered.
Check what qualifications and accreditations the provider holds. UKAS-accredited providers may charge slightly more but offer additional assurance of technical competence and impartiality. Their reports carry more weight with insurers and regulators.
Consider the provider's response times and availability. The cheapest quote is poor value if the provider can't schedule your inspection before your compliance deadline or takes weeks to deliver the report. Ask about turnaround times for both scheduling examinations and providing written reports.
Geographic coverage matters if you operate multiple sites. A provider who can service all your locations may offer better value than using multiple local providers, even if per-inspection costs are slightly higher. The administrative simplicity and consistency of approach add value.
Verify what happens if defects are found. Some providers offer on-site repair services, which can be convenient but may not always be the most cost-effective option. Others provide detailed defect descriptions allowing you to source repairs competitively.
Don't automatically choose the cheapest quote. An inadequate examination that misses developing problems could cost you far more in the long run through equipment failure, accidents, or HSE enforcement action. Quality and competence matter more than saving £50 on an inspection.