Key Takeaways
- The full Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) process for a stairlift typically takes 6–20 weeks, depending on your council.
- Legally, councils have up to 6 months (26 weeks) to approve or deny your application.
- The longest part of the process is usually waiting for the occupational therapist (OT) assessment.
- Installation typically occurs within 1–2 weeks of approval.
- Delays often stem from high demand, paperwork issues, or council backlogs, but you can take steps to speed things up.
Typical Timeline for a Stairlift Grant Application
Below is the standard journey from first contact to installation.
1. Initial Contact with Your Council
Time: 1–2 weeks
After you apply, the council registers your request and begins the assessment process.
During this stage, you may be asked for:
- Basic personal details
- Information on mobility issues
- Permission to contact your landlord (if renting)
2. Occupational Therapist (OT) Assessment
Time: 2–10 weeks
(This is usually the longest stage.)
An OT visits your home to confirm that a stairlift is:
- Necessary
- Appropriate
- Safe
- The best solution for your mobility needs
Demand for OTs varies by region, so wait times can differ dramatically.
3. Financial Assessment (Adults Only)
Time: 1–4 weeks
Adults undergo a means test that looks at:
- Income
- Savings
- Benefits
- Pension income
- Household income
Children are not means-tested, so this step is skipped.
4. Gathering Quotes from Installers
Time: 1–3 weeks
Most councils require:
- One or two written quotes
- A full home survey from each company
- Details of the exact stairlift recommended
Some councils collect quotes on your behalf, which can shorten (or lengthen) the timeline.
5. Council Decision & Grant Approval
Time: Up to 6 months, legally, typically 3–12 weeks
The law states:
Councils must approve or refuse a Disabled Facilities Grant within 6 months (26 weeks).
Most councils decide much faster, especially for straightforward stairlift cases.
Approval depends on:
- OT recommendation
- Financial assessment
- Installer quotes
- Structural suitability of your home
6. Stairlift Installation
Time: 1–2 weeks after approval
Once funding is confirmed:
- The installer books a date
- The stairlift is fitted
- Final checks are completed
Straight stairlifts: usually installed in under 2 hours.
Curved stairlifts: may take 2–4 hours.
Total Typical Timeline
6–20 weeks
Depending on:
- Your local council
- OT availability
- How quickly you respond to requests
- Whether your home is straightforward to adapt
Worst-case (legal maximum): 26 weeks
Best-case (fast-track): 4–6 weeks
Why Do Stairlift Grant Applications Get Delayed?
Common causes of slow applications:
- High demand for OTs
- Incomplete paperwork
- Financial evidence missing
- Council budget or staffing pressures
- Installer backlogs
- Landlord permission delays
Less common delays:
- Complex staircase layouts
- Need for additional electrical work
- Safety concerns requiring reassessment
How to Speed Up Your Application
Provide medical evidence early
GP letters, hospital discharge notes, mobility assessments.
Submit financial documents quickly
Income, benefits, pensions, savings.
Respond to council messages immediately
Delays in replying can push your case back in the queue.
Get stairlift quotes as soon as you’re allowed
Don’t wait for reminders.
Prepare your staircase for assessment
Clear obstacles to avoid repeat visits.
Ask about “urgent needs” or fast-tracking
Some councils prioritise:
- Risk of falls
- Carer burden
- Hospital discharge cases
Can You Get a Stairlift Installed Faster If You Pay Out of Pocket?
Yes, private installations are usually completed within 1–7 days.
However, you cannot start work before DFG approval, or you will lose grant eligibility.
FAQs
What’s the fastest a stairlift grant can be approved?
Around 4–6 weeks in straightforward cases.
What’s the longest it can take?
Legally, councils have up to 26 weeks.
Do children’s applications move faster?
Ye, no financial assessment is required.
Can I switch councils if I move home?
No, the application applies only to your current local authority.
What happens after approval?
Installation is usually arranged within 1–2 weeks.