Key Takeaways
- A good reconditioned stairlift in the UK typically costs £800-£3,000 for a straight model and £2,500–£5,000 for a curved or complex model.
- Prices vary based on the type of staircase, condition, features, installation complexity, and warranty/aftercare.
- You should expect the final quote to include lift + rail (if straight), installation, and at least a 12-month warranty.
- If a deal seems much cheaper than these ranges (e.g., under £700–£800 for a full refurbished + fitted lift), that should trigger extra caution and detailed questions.
Typical Price Ranges (UK, 2026)
Note: Some suppliers list reconditioned straight lifts “from £875–£990” as entry-level deals
Others claim reconditioned curved lifts “from £2,950.”
What Determines How Much You Should Pay
The final cost depends on several factors. When you get a quote (or multiple), check these carefully:
1. Type of Staircase & Stairlift
- Straight stairlifts are the cheapest and simplest: less customisation, standard rails.
- Curved, multi-landing, narrow or unusual staircases require custom rails or modifications → higher cost.
- Outdoor or heavy-duty lifts add complexity and raise the price.
2. Condition, Age & Level of Refurbishment
- A “lightly used, recently made” stairlift refurbished to a high standard should cost more than a very old, heavily used unit.
- More thorough refurbishment (new motor parts, new batteries, new safety components, new rail) usually leads to a higher price but also better reliability.
3. What’s Included: Installation + Warranty + Aftercare
- Many reconditioned stairlift quotes include installation and a basic warranty (12 months or more).
- If installation or rail-cutting (for curved stairs) is extra, that increases the total cost.
- Warranty (and sometimes aftercare) should be part of the deal; that reflects the refurbisher’s confidence.
4. Features & Custom Requirements
- Extras: swivel seats, powered footrests, higher weight capacity, outdoor weatherproofing, and narrow-stair adaptations all add to the cost
- Custom rail length or unusual stair geometry will increase price (especially for curved/staircase requiring bespoke rail).
5. Supply & Demand / Stock Availability
- Straight lifts are widely available, and prices tend to remain competitive.
- Curved / custom lifts are rarer; fewer units mean a higher price and possibly longer wait times.
What to Pay “Reasonable Price Thresholds”
When evaluating offers, here’s a rough guideline for what counts as a fair, reasonable price for a fully refurbished & fitted stairlift (2026, UK):
- Straight stairlift: £1,200–£2,200 (incl. installation & warranty).
- Curved stairlift: £2,800–£4,500 (incl. rail, installation & warranty).
- If quoted below £800 (straight) or £2,200 (curved): check what’s included. Might be “lift only” (no rail), no installation, or a basic refurb, ask detailed questions.
- If well above the typical range (e.g., a straight stairlift > £3,500), ensure extras and custom work justify the cost (e.g., a very long stair, a heavy-duty lift, a premium upgrade, etc.).
What to Watch Out For / What to Ask Before You Pay
Before committing, make sure to ask the supplier:
- Does the price include rail (if straight) or a custom rail (if curved)?
- Does the quote include installation (not just delivery)?
- What warranty is provided (parts, labour, call-outs)? At least 12 months is common for good refurbishers.
- Are batteries, safety components, and sensors replaced or tested?
- How old is the original stairlift, and what refurbishments have been done (motor, gearbox, electronics, upholstery, etc.)?
- What aftercare or servicing is included / available?
- If your staircase is curved or complicated, is a bespoke rail included?
When a “Cheap” Stairlift Is Actually Too Cheap
A reconditioned stairlift advertised at an unusually low price (e.g., under £700-£800 for straight, or under ~£2,200 for curved) can be tempting, but this may hide extra costs or skipped refurbishment steps. Common pitfalls:
- The rail is not included (you must pay extra).
- Installation is extra or DIY.
- Limited or no warranty.
- Refurbishment: only cosmetic internal safety components may be old or unreliable.
- The unit might be very old or nearing the end of its life (with a short remaining lifespan).
If the seller can’t give clear, detailed info, treat with caution.
Bottom Line: What You Should Expect to Pay
For most UK buyers looking for a safe, fully refurbished, properly installed stairlift with a warranty:
- £1,200 – £2,200 for a straight stairlift
- £2,800 – £4,500 for a curved / custom stairlift
These prices balance affordability, safety, and reliability. Paying significantly less or much more than these ranges should prompt close inspection or a second quote.