Key Takeaways
- Pushy stairlift sales tactics still exist, especially among high-commission national brands and door-to-door sellers.
- You can avoid pressure by knowing your rights, asking the right questions, getting written quotes, and avoiding “today-only” deals.
- A professional stairlift company will never pressure you, speak over you, or demand a decision on the day.
- Always compare at least two quotes, understand your cooling-off rights, and involve a family member if possible.
- Knowledge is the strongest defence, this guide gives you everything you need to stay in control.
Why Pushy Sales Tactics Happen in the Stairlift Industry
Most stairlift companies are reputable, but some salespeople use pressure because:
- They work on commission
- They’re trained to close sales quickly
- They assume older customers will feel pressured
- They want to avoid quote comparison
- They use “limited-time deals” to rush decisions
This is entirely avoidable if you recognise the signs.
Common Pushy Stairlift Sales Tactics (and How to Stop Them)
1. “You must sign today to get this price.”
Red flag:
No genuine stairlift deal expires within hours.
How to respond:
- “Please put the quote in writing. I will review it in my own time.”
- Walk away if they insist.
Legitimate installers give quotes valid for at least 14 days.
2. Overselling expensive models or unnecessary upgrades
Examples:
- Pushing a powered swivel when a manual would do
- Saying “you need a curved lift” when a straight one will fit
- Adding extras you didn’t ask for
How to avoid it:
- Ask: “Why is this necessary for my staircase?”
- Get a comparison: straight vs curved, basic vs premium
- Compare with another installer’s recommendation
A good installer explains options, not pressure.
3. Scare tactics about safety
Some salespeople exaggerate risks to force upgrades:
- “A cheaper lift might break within a year.”
- “Other brands are unsafe.”
- “If you don’t buy today, you could fall.”
How to respond:
- Ask for evidence, not opinions
- Bring a relative or friend to the survey
- Get a second opinion from an independent installer
Stairlifts are regulated and safe across major brands.
4. Long home visits or refusing to leave without a sale
A pushy salesperson may stay for hours to wear you down.
How to avoid it:
- Set a time limit before they arrive
- Have someone else present
- Tell them clearly you will never sign on the day
If they refuse to leave, you can ask them to leave your property immediately.
5. Confusing pricing or hiding costs
Examples:
- Giving vague estimates
- Not confirming whether the warranty is included
- Hiding removal or servicing fees
- Not explaining curved rail costs
Protect yourself by asking:
- “What exactly does this price include?”
- “Is this a fixed quote or an estimate?”
- “Will you send this in writing?”
A reliable company gives a clear, itemised, written quote.
6. Pressuring you to avoid comparing quotes
Statements like:
- “Other companies will rip you off.”
- “We’re the only ones who can install this model.”
- “Don’t waste time shopping around.”
How to stay safe:
- Always get 2–3 quotes
- Ask each company why their lift is better
- Compare warranty, service, and aftercare
If a company discourages comparison, that’s a warning sign.
7. Refusing to give pricing until after a long presentation
Some companies rely on wearing customers down.
How to avoid it:
- Ask for a price range upfront
- If they won’t give one, choose another provider
Good installers are transparent from the start.
8. Claiming you need an expensive curved lift when you don’t
Some pushy sellers incorrectly claim your stairs require a curved rail.
Protect yourself by asking:
- “Can you show me why a straight lift won’t fit?”
- “Can I see measurements or diagrams?”
- “Will another company confirm this?”
Always get a second opinion for curved staircases.
How to Protect Yourself From Pushy Sales Tactics
1. Always bring someone to the survey
A family member or friend:
- Helps ask questions
- Prevents pressure
- Provides emotional support
- Helps remember information
Never attend a survey alone if you feel vulnerable.
2. Ask for everything in writing
Especially:
- Price
- Warranty
- Aftercare terms
- Installation timelines
- CAD drawings (for curved lifts)
A written quote protects you legally.
3. Compare at least two companies
Aim for:
- One national brand
- One independent installer
This gives you a fair comparison of price and features.
4. Know your cooling-off rights
Under UK consumer law:
- You have 14 days to cancel a stairlift contract
- Companies must inform you of this clearly
- You cannot be charged cancellation fees during this period
If they don’t mention cooling-off rights, be cautious.
5. Avoid companies that don’t list prices publicly
Trustworthy installers either:
- Provide price ranges online, or
- Give a clear starting price on the phone
If everything is hidden, they may rely on pressure.
6. Trust your instincts
If you feel pressured:
- End the appointment
- Ask them to leave
- Choose another provider
Many reputable installers prioritise customer care.
Questions to Ask Before Booking Any Survey
- Is the survey free and no-obligation?
- How long will the visit take?
- Will the surveyor be an engineer, not a salesperson?
- Could you provide a price range now?
- What brands and models do you install?
- Do you offer reconditioned options?
- What warranties and aftercare do you provide?
A good company will confidently answer all of these.
Bottom Line
Pushy stairlift sales tactics still exist, but they’re easy to avoid when you know the signs.
Choose companies that offer:
- Clear pricing
- No-pressure surveys
- Written quotes
- Strong aftercare
- Transparent warranty terms
A stairlift is a significant investment. The right installer will respect your time, your budget, and your decision-making, without pressure or manipulation.