The Stairlift Costs Blog
How to Test Ride a Stairlift Before You Buy
Key Takeaways You can and should test-ride a stairlift before buying, either in a showroom, at a demo home, or through an in-home trial. A proper test ride helps you judge comfort, safety, noise, speed, controls, and fit for your mobility needs. Many UK stairlift...
Stair Requirements for a Standing Lift (Height, Width, Rails)
Key Takeaways Standing stairlifts (also called perch stairlifts) are ideal for narrow or steep staircases, but they still require certain dimensions to be safe. Most UK homes need a minimum stair width of 550–600 mm for a standing lift, compared to 650–750 mm for a...
How Safe Are Standing Stairlifts? Full Feature Breakdown
Key Takeaways Standing stairlifts (also called perch stairlifts) are very safe when used correctly and installed by a certified engineer. They include multiple safety systems, such as knee bars, armrests, sensors, speed control, and emergency stop functions. They are...
How Long Do Outdoor Stairlifts Last? UK Data and Averages
Key Takeaways Outdoor stairlifts typically last 7–12 years in the UK, depending on weather exposure, usage frequency, and maintenance. Premium outdoor models can last up to 15 years with consistent servicing. Annual servicing is essential, as outdoor units are exposed...
How Quickly Can You Get a Rental Stairlift Installed?
Key Takeaways Most rental stairlifts for straight staircases can be installed within 24–72 hours. Some providers offer same-day installation for urgent cases, especially for hospital discharge or emergency mobility needs. Curved staircases typically take 5–14 days,...
Who Should Consider Renting a Stairlift Instead of Buying?
Key Takeaways Renting a stairlift is ideal for people with temporary mobility needs, those unsure about long-term use, or individuals who want to avoid high upfront costs. It’s also a practical option for visiting relatives, post-surgery recovery, and homes with...
Short-Term vs Long-Term Stairlift Rental: Pros and Cons
Key Takeaways Short-term stairlift rental is ideal for temporary mobility needs, visitors, or recovery after surgery. Long-term rentals offer predictable monthly costs but may be more expensive than buying over many years. Both options usually include maintenance,...
What Installers Look For During the Initial Survey
Key Takeaways The initial survey is essential for confirming that a stairlift is safe, suitable, and correctly matched to your staircase. Installers assess staircase measurements, shape, condition, power access, obstructions, safety considerations, and your mobility...
Same-Day Stairlift Installation: When Is It Possible?
Key Takeaways Same-day stairlift installation is possible, but only under certain conditions, mainly with straight staircases and companies that keep units in stock. Curved staircases cannot be installed the same day because they require custom-made rails. Same-day...
Electrical Requirements for Stairlift Installation
Key Takeaways Stairlifts run on low-voltage batteries, not mains power; they only need a standard plug socket for charging. No special wiring, fuse upgrades, or electrical certification is usually required. The installer will position the charging points at the top or...
Can You Install a Stairlift Yourself? Honest Expert Answer
Key Takeaways No, you should not install a stairlift yourself. Stairlifts require precise alignment, safe bracket placement, electrical setup, and full safety testing. DIY installation can lead to serious safety risks, invalid warranties, and equipment malfunction....
Installation Problems You Might Face and How They Are Solved
Key Takeaways Most stairlift installations are straightforward and take 1–4 hours, but some homes present challenges. Common issues include narrow stairs, curved or multi-flight layouts, obstructions, power supply problems, and weak or damaged steps. Professional...
How Engineers Fit a Stairlift Rail Without Damaging Your Stairs
Key Takeaways Stairlift rails are fitted to the stair treads, not the wall, preventing structural damage. Engineers use small, non-invasive brackets that require only a few discreet screws. No major drilling, flooring removal, or structural work is needed for...
Do You Need Planning Permission for a Stairlift?
Key Takeaways No, you do not need planning permission to install an indoor stairlift in the UK. Stairlifts are considered non-structural home adaptations, so they don’t require planning approval or building control sign-off. Outdoor stairlifts rarely require planning...
Preparing Your Home for Stairlift Installation: Checklist
Key Takeaways Preparing your home for stairlift installation is simple and usually takes less than 15 minutes. You don’t need major home renovations; stairlifts attach to the stairs, not the wall. Clearing clutter, ensuring power access, and making space for the...