Key Takeaways
- In almost all cases, a curved stairlift cannot be moved to another house.
- This is because the rail is custom-built for the original staircase; every bend, angle, and landing is unique.
- Only the carriage (the chair and motor unit) can sometimes be reused, but the rail must be newly manufactured.
- Trying to reuse a curved rail in a different home is unsafe, non-compliant, and usually more expensive than buying a new or reconditioned system.
- Straight stairlifts are far easier to relocate; curved models are rarely.
Can You Move a Curved Stairlift to a New House?
Short answer: No, not realistically.
Curved stairlift rails are individually designed around the exact dimensions of a single staircase. This includes:
- Curve radius
- Angle of the stairs
- Rise height
- Width
- Landing shape and size
- Turn geometry (90°, 180°, S-shaped)
- Obstructions like windows, handrails, and heaters
Because of this bespoke construction, a curved rail will not fit another home even if the two staircases look similar.
Why a Curved Stairlift Can’t Be Reused in Another House
Here are the technical reasons:
1. Rails Are Custom-Built
Every curved rail is unique.
It cannot be “cut down,” reshaped, or modified to suit another staircase without compromising safety or structural integrity.
2. Rail Geometry Must Be Perfect
Curved rails rely on precise alignment for:
- Smooth travel
- Correct speed control
- Safe cornering
- Sensor accuracy
Even a few millimetres of misalignment can cause jolting, grinding, or system faults.
3. University of Safety Standards
Manufacturers must certify the rail for the specific installation.
A reused rail cannot be certified for a new staircase, making it non-compliant and unsafe.
4. Modification Costs Exceed Buying New
Re-engineering a curved rail can cost more than a new rail, because:
- Engineers would need to rebuild or re-weld sections completely
- Custom bending must be redone
- Fabrication costs are extremely high
This is why manufacturers do not offer this service.
What Parts Can Be Reused?
Although the rail cannot be moved, certain components may be reusable:
The Carriage (Chair + Motor Unit)
If the model is modern and compatible, it can sometimes be reused on a new custom rail.
Remotes, seat covers, and accessories
These can be reused regardless of staircase shape.
Battery packs (if new)
Sometimes transferable, depending on the model.
The Rail
Never reusable. Always needs to be manufactured fresh.
What About Reconditioned Curved Stairlifts?
Reconditioned curved stairlifts do exist, but:
- The carriage is refurbished
- The rail is newly manufactured to fit the new buyer’s staircase
So even if you buy a refurbished curved model, the rail is still bespoke.
This is why reconditioned curved stairlifts usually cost £2,500–£5,000, not dramatically cheaper than new.
Can You Sell Your Curved Stairlift?
You can, but the value is low because the rail cannot be reused.
Typical UK buy-back values:
- Carriage only: £50–£150
- Curved rail: £0 (scrap metal only)
Most companies will:
- Pay a small amount for the carriage
- Remove the rail for free
- Dispose of unusable parts responsibly
Is It Ever Possible to Move a Curved Stairlift?
There are extremely rare cases where relocation might work:
- Two houses with identical, mirrored new-build layouts
- Two staircases manufactured with the same geometry
- Rail designs that use modular sections (a small number of models)
However, even then:
- Certification is still required
- New brackets and fittings must be installed
- The risk of misalignment remains high
It is rarely cost-effective or practical.
What Should You Do If Moving House?
1. Sell or Trade In Your Old Curved Stairlift
You may receive a small amount for the carriage and free removal.
2. Install a New or Reconditioned Stairlift in Your New Home
You’ll receive:
- A new custom rail
- Updated safety features
- Full certification
- Warranty and aftercare
3. Arrange Removal Early
Most mobility companies can remove the stairlift within 1–7 days.
Cost Comparison: Moving vs Buying New
| Option | Typical Cost | Total Practicality |
| Move a curved stairlift | £2,000–£5,000 (rebuild) | Not realistic |
| Buy a reconditioned curved stairlift | £2,500–£5,000 | Good value |
| Buy a new curved stairlift | £4,000–£8,000+ | Best long-term solution |
| Sell carriage + remove old lift | £0–£150 return | Easy |
Trying to reuse the old rail often ends up being more expensive than buying new or reconditioned.
Bottom Line
A curved stairlift is rarely movable to another house because the rail is custom-designed for its original staircase.
Only the carriage can sometimes be reused; the rail must always be rebuilt from scratch.
For homeowners moving house:
- Expect to replace your curved stairlift
- Sell or trade in your old carriage
- Install a new or reconditioned tailored system in the new property
This ensures safety, compliance, comfort, and long-term reliability.