Key Takeaways
- A good reconditioned stairlift should come with a 6-12 month warranty, with the option to extend.
- Warranty should cover parts, labour, call-outs, batteries, and safety components, but this varies between suppliers.
- Aftercare typically includes annual servicing, 24/7 call-out options, and emergency repairs.
- Buying from a reputable dealer gives you protection; private buying offers no warranty, no installation, and no safety checks.
- Understanding what’s included (and what isn’t) helps avoid surprise costs later.
What Warranty Should You Expect on a Reconditioned Stairlift?
Unlike new stairlifts (which often come with 2–5 years of full cover), reconditioned stairlifts usually have a shorter but still comprehensive warranty.
Typical Warranty Lengths (UK)
- Standard warranty: 6–12 months
- Extended warranty: 1–3 years (paid upgrade)
- Labour-only warranty: Less common, but sometimes offered at lower prices
- Installation guarantee: Often 6–12 months separate from parts warranty
A professional mobility company will always include at least 6 months of coverage; anything less is a red flag.
What’s Included in a Good Reconditioned Stairlift Warranty?
A proper warranty should include:
Parts
Covers failure or malfunction of major components, including:
- Motor & gearbox
- PCB (control board)
- Safety sensors
- Charging system
- Seat swivel mechanisms
- Rack & pinion drive parts
Labour
Technician time should be included in the call-out, and repair should not be charged separately.
Call-Outs
Most reputable suppliers include call-out fees during the warranty period, even outside normal hours.
Batteries
For reconditioned lifts, new batteries are usually fitted, and the warranty should cover them.
Rail Adjustments
If the rail settles or needs recalibration after installation, this should be included.
What’s Not Usually Included?
While policies vary, most companies exclude:
- Cosmetic damage
- Misuse (e.g., overloading, spills, pets chewing cables)
- Storm or flood damage
- Power surge damage (recommended: use a surge protector)
- Vandalism or forced damage
- Issues caused by DIY repairs
Battery misuse (e.g., deliberately leaving the lift off charge) may also void the warranty.
Aftercare: What You Should Expect Once the Warranty Starts
Reconditioned stairlifts need regular servicing and proper support, especially since they have been used before. Professional aftercare ensures reliability and prolongs lifespan.
Annual Servicing
Most companies recommend one service per year.
A typical service includes:
- Full safety test
- Motor and gearbox inspection
- Battery health check
- Track cleaning & lubrication
- Sensor testing
- Charging system test
- Structural inspection
Servicing usually costs:
- £80–£120 for straight stairlifts
- £100–£160 for curved stairlifts
Good aftercare packages include discounted service rates for reconditioned units.
Emergency Call-Outs
Depending on the supplier, you may get:
- Normal-hour call-outs are included in the warranty
- 24/7 emergency cover (sometimes optional)
- Priority response for vulnerable or elderly customers
Some companies offer premium emergency packages for £10–£20 per month.
Installation Guarantee
In addition to the parts/labour warranty, reputable suppliers offer:
- 6–12 months installation warranty
- Covers issues such as rail movement, incorrect fitting, or realignment needs
- Ensures your lift is safe and secure after settling
This is separate from the refurbishment warranty; both matter.
What to Ask Before Buying a Reconditioned Stairlift
Before you commit, ask these key questions, which help reveal whether the provider is reputable:
1. What exactly does the warranty cover?
Look for full parts, labour, and call-outs.
2. How long is the warranty?
Avoid anything under 6 months for a refurbished lift.
3. Does the warranty cover batteries?
It should be, as most reconditioned lifts come with new ones.
4. Is servicing included or discounted?
Some installers offer the first year’s service free.
5. Is 24/7 support available if needed?
This is especially important for people with mobility or health concerns.
6. Are extended warranties available?
Useful for peace of mind on older reconditioned lifts.
Why Warranty Quality Varies Between Providers
The reconditioned stairlift industry ranges from high-end engineers to basic resellers.
You’ll see differences in:
- Depth of refurbishment
- Warranty confidence
- Access to spare parts
- Technician training
- Response times
- Out-of-hours support
A longer, more comprehensive warranty often signals better refurbishment standards.
Bottom Line: What You Should Expect
A fair and reliable package for a reconditioned stairlift includes:
- 6–12 month full warranty (parts, labour, call-outs)
- 12-month installation guarantee
- Annual servicing plan available
- Option for 1–3 year extended cover
- Clear breakdown of what’s covered and excluded
With a reputable supplier, the aftercare for a reconditioned stairlift should feel very close to what you’d expect from a new model, just at a lower overall cost.