Selling a Stairlift in the UK
What it’s worth, where to sell it, and when selling is not worthIf you no longer need a stairlift, selling it can seem like an obvious next step. In reality, resale value varies widely depending on the type of stairlift, its age, and the installation method. Some stairlifts sell quickly, while others have little to no resale value once removed.
This guide explains what you can realistically expect when selling a stairlift in the UK, including costs, common mistakes, and when removal is the better option.
Can you sell a used stairlift?
Yes, many used stairlifts can be sold, but not all stairlifts are equally resellable.
Straight stairlifts are the easiest to sell because they use standard rails that can be refitted in another home. Curved stairlifts are harder to sell because the rail is custom-made to fit one specific staircase. In many cases, only the chair unit itself has any resale value.
How much is a second-hand stairlift worth?
Most second-hand stairlifts are worth far less than their original purchase price. Depreciation is steep, especially after the first few years.
Resale value depends mainly on:
- Whether the stairlift is straight or curved
- Age and condition
- Brand and model
- Whether it is still installed or already removed
- Demand in your area
Straight stairlifts usually retain more value than curved ones. Typical examples and realistic figures are explained in second-hand stairlift value.
We also explain why values drop over time in stairlift depreciation.
Selling a curved stairlift: what to expect
Curved stairlifts are usually the most expensive to buy, but the hardest to sell.
Because the rail is custom-built for one staircase, it cannot usually be reused elsewhere. This means:
- Buyers often only want the chair unit
- Offers are much lower than people expect
- Some curved stairlifts have no resale value at all
In many cases, the cost of removal exceeds the stairlift’s resale value. We explain this fully in selling a curved stairlift.
Do you need to remove the stairlift before selling?
Most buyers expect the stairlift to be removed before sale, especially if selling to a dealer or specialist buyer.
Removal is usually straightforward and does not damage the staircase. The steps involved are explained in the stairlift removal process.
Some buyers may include removal in their offer, but many do not. It is important to confirm this before agreeing on a price.
How much does stairlift removal cost?
Professional stairlift removal typically costs a few hundred pounds, depending on:
- Straight vs curved installation
- Access
- Location
Full price ranges and what affects them are covered in stairlift removal cost.
If you are concerned about damage, we also explain whether stairlift removal damages stairs.
Is it worth selling a stairlift, or should we remove it?
Whether selling is worthwhile depends on the balance between:
- Expected resale value
- Removal costs
- Time and effort involved
Selling is often worthwhile for:
- Newer straight stairlifts
- Well-known brands in good condition
Selling is often not worthwhile for:
- Older curved stairlifts
- Very specialised models
- Units with faults or missing parts
In those cases, removal without resale may be the simplest and least stressful option. We explore alternatives and cost-effective approaches in cost-effective ways to remove unwanted stairlifts.
Common mistakes when selling a stairlift
Some of the most common issues we see include:
- Expecting close to the original purchase price
- Paying for removal before confirming a buyer
- Not checking whether removal is included in an offer
- Assuming curved stairlifts are easy to resell
Using a checklist helps avoid these problems. We provide one in our stairlift buyer checklist.
Selling a stairlift FAQs
Can you sell a used stairlift in the UK?
Yes, especially straight stairlifts. Curved stairlifts are harder to sell due to custom rails.
How much is a second-hand stairlift worth?
Usually far less than the original price. Value depends on type, age, and condition.
Are curved stairlifts harder to sell?
Yes. In many cases, only the chair unit has resale value.
Do I need to remove the stairlift before selling it?
Usually yes. Most buyers expect the removal to be completed first.
How much does stairlift removal cost?
Typically, a few hundred pounds, depending on stair type and access.
Is selling always worth it?
No. For some stairlifts, removal without resale is the more practical option.
Related guides
You may also find these useful: