Key Takeaways
- Before booking a stairlift survey, ask questions about costs, suitability, installation process, warranty, and aftercare, as these vary widely between providers.
- A good stairlift company should give clear, straightforward answers with no hard sales pressure.
- Asking the right questions prevents unexpected costs, ensures the lift fits your staircase, and helps you choose a reliable installer.
- The survey should always be free, no-obligation, and carried out by a trained assessor or engineer.
Why Asking Questions Before the Survey Matters
A stairlift survey is your first step toward installation, but not all companies operate the same way.
Before you invite someone into your home, you should confirm:
- Whether they’re reputable
- What types of stairlifts do they offer
- What the survey includes
- Whether there’s any sales pressure
- What costs to expect
- What the next steps look like
Asking strategic questions up front ensures a smooth process and protects you from poor-quality installers or hidden charges.
The Essential Questions to Ask Before Booking a Stairlift Survey
Use this list to choose the right provider and avoid surprises.
1. “Is the survey free, and is it no-obligation?”
This should always be yes.
A reputable company will:
- Offer surveys free of charge
- Not pressure you into signing on the day
- Allow you to compare quotes calmly
If they insist on quick decisions or require upfront deposits, walk away.
2. “What types of stairlifts do you supply?”
Suppliers vary widely. Ask whether they offer:
- Straight stairlifts
- Curved stairlifts
- Standing/perch stairlifts
- Outdoor stairlifts
- Heavy-duty models
- Reconditioned options
A company that offers only one model may not be the best fit for your staircase.
3. “Do you provide both new and reconditioned stairlifts?”
This affects the price dramatically.
Reconditioned lifts can save 30–50%, but only ask companies who:
- Fully refurbish lifts
- Replace safety components & batteries
- Offer proper warranties
- Are transparent about model age
4. “Will the surveyor be a trained engineer?”
Some companies send salespeople instead of technical experts.
You want someone who can:
- Measure accurately
- Identify structural issues
- Propose rail options
- Answer technical questions confidently
Engineers tend to give better, more honest advice.
5. “Can you give me a price range before the survey?”
They cannot give an exact quote without seeing the stairs,
But they should provide a clear starting range.
This ensures:
- You know what to expect
- You avoid companies that hide pricing
- You can prepare budget options (new vs reconditioned)
6. “How long does installation take after the survey?”
Typical timelines:
- Straight stairlifts: next day, 72 hours
- Curved stairlifts: 1-4 weeks (custom rail)
Ask for estimated lead times so you understand how urgent cases are handled.
7. “Is the surveyor allowed to give a firm quote on the day?”
Good companies provide:
- A written quote
- Explanation of options
- Time to think, no pressure
Avoid companies that attempt high-pressure “today only” deals.
8. “What warranty comes with your stairlifts?”
Minimum expectations:
- New stairlifts: 12–24 months
- Reconditioned stairlifts: 6–12 months
- Optional extended cover
Confirm:
- What’s included (parts, labour, call-outs)
- If batteries are covered
- Whether emergency support is available
9. “What aftercare or servicing do you offer?”
Aftercare affects long-term reliability.
Ask:
- Do you offer annual servicing?
- What do call-outs cost after warranty?
- Is 24/7 support available?
- Who performs repairs (your team or subcontractors)?
A company with weak aftercare is a major red flag.
10. “Do you install on all staircase types?”
Confirm they can handle:
- Narrow stairs
- Steep stairs
- Curved stairs
- Multi-landing layouts
- Spiral staircases
- Rental homes (with landlord permission)
Specialist staircases require experienced installers.
11. “Can you show me customer reviews or case studies?”
A reputable company should provide:
- Recent reviews (Google, Trustpilot, Yell)
- Real customer photos or testimonials
- Examples of similar installations
Avoid companies with no visible track record.
12. “Will I get a written quote and breakdown of costs?”
Written quotes should include:
- Stairlift cost
- Installation cost
- Rail type
- Warranty terms
- VAT exemption info
- Removal costs (if applicable)
Never rely on verbal quotes.
13. “Do you handle removal of old stairlifts?”
If you’re replacing an existing lift, ask:
- Is removal free?
- Do they dispose responsibly?
- Do they offer trade-in discounts?
Removals are usually quick (30–60 minutes).
14. “Do you offer rental or short-term stairlift options?”
Useful if:
- You’re recovering after surgery
- You need a temporary solution
- You’re unsure about long-term suitability
Only some installers offer rentals.
15. “Are your stairlifts eligible for Disabled Facilities Grants (DFGs)?”
DFGs can cover up to £30,000, even for renters.
Ask whether they:
- Support grant applications
- Provide quotes suitable for council funding
- Have experience with OT-led installations
Quick Pre-Survey Checklist
Before booking a survey, make sure you know:
- What types of lifts does the company offer
- Whether the survey is free and no-obligation
- Expected price range
- Warranty details
- Aftercare terms
- Installation timelines
- Brand and model options
- Whether they install reconditioned lifts
- Who will perform the survey (engineer vs salesperson)
Bottom Line
Booking a stairlift survey is easy, but choosing the right company requires the right questions. By asking about price, warranty, aftercare, installer experience, and the survey process itself, you can avoid hidden costs, poor-quality installations, and high-pressure sales tactics.
A good stairlift company will be transparent, patient, and helpful from the very first call. Asking the right questions helps ensure you choose a provider that offers safety, reliability, and long-term support.