Install a stairlift.

Modern stairlifts are sleek, quiet, and highly reliable, fitting onto the stairs rather than the wall. Whether your staircase is a simple straight run or a complex spiral, there is a solution designed to keep you independent in the home you love.

What Does the Work Involve?

• Initial Site Survey: A technical surveyor measures the staircase width, length, and clearance at the top and bottom to ensure a safe fit.
• Design and Specification: Choosing between a straight or curved rail, selecting upholstery, and deciding on features like a powered swivel seat or folding footrest.
• Preparation: Removing any obstructions like handrails or radiator covers and ensuring a dedicated power socket is available near the stairs.
• Track Installation: Fixing the rail brackets directly to the stair treads (not the wall) and aligning the sections for a smooth ride.
• Carriage Mounting: Fitting the motor unit and seat onto the rail and connecting the battery backup system.
• Safety Testing: Calibrating the limit sensors, checking the emergency stop, and ensuring the carriage stops perfectly level with the landings.
• User Handover: A full demonstration of how to use the controls, remote handsets, and swivel mechanism safely.

Typical Costs

Pricing is primarily driven by the shape of your stairs; curved rails must be custom-manufactured to the millimetre, which significantly increases the cost. Note: If you have a long-term illness or disability, you may be eligible for 0% VAT on the purchase and installation, saving you 20%.

How Long Does It Take?

• Survey and Quote: 1–2 hours for a thorough assessment of the user's needs and the staircase.
• Lead Time (Straight): 3–7 working days from order to installation for off-the-shelf units.
• Lead Time (Curved): 2–5 weeks, as the rail is bespoke-manufactured in a factory.
• Installation (Straight): 2–4 hours on-site with minimal disruption.
• Installation (Curved): 4–8 hours, depending on the complexity and number of turns.

DIY or Professional?

Stairlift installation is strictly a professional job. While second-hand units are often sold privately, modern stairlifts are complex pieces of machinery with safety sensors that must be calibrated precisely to prevent accidents.

Attempting a DIY install voids manufacturer warranties and can be dangerous if the rail is not secured correctly to the treads. Furthermore, any electrical work involving a new circuit must comply with Part P of the Building Regulations, requiring a certified electrician.

Choosing the Right Tradesperson

• Look for companies that are members of the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA), which ensures they follow a strict code of practice.
• Check if the installers are factory-trained by the specific manufacturer (e.g., Stannah, Acorn, Handicare).
• Ensure the quote includes a "no-quibble" 12 or 24-month warranty that covers both parts and emergency call-out labour.

Always ask for a written breakdown of the "after-sales" service. A stairlift is a critical piece of equipment; you need to know how quickly they can attend if it breaks down while you are upstairs.

Questions to ask:

• Does the price include the removal of my old handrails and the making good of any holes?
• What is the maximum weight capacity of this specific model?
• Is there a 24/7 emergency helpline if the lift stops mid-travel?
• Can you provide references from local customers with a similar staircase layout?

UK Regulations

• BS EN 81-40: The British Standard for the safety and construction of stairlifts. Ensure your unit meets this.
• Part P (Electrical Safety): If a new fused spur is required, the work must be done by a competent person and potentially notified to local building control.
• Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER): While primarily for workplaces, these standards often inform the maintenance schedules recommended for domestic lifts.
• VAT Relief: You should be asked to sign a simple VAT exemption form if the user has a qualifying disability or chronic condition.

Common Problems

• Inadequate Clearance: If the stairs are too narrow (less than 750mm), the user's knees may hit the opposite wall or banister. A "perch" seat may be required.
• Battery Failure: Stairlifts run on batteries charged by the mains. If the charger is accidentally switched off at the wall, the batteries will eventually fail and require replacement.
• Obstructions: Items left on the stairs will trigger safety sensors. Modern lifts have "pressure sensitive" edges to stop the lift instantly if an object is detected.
• Hinged Rails: If the rail ends near a doorway, it may create a trip hazard. A powered folding hinge is often needed to clear the walkway.

Frequently Asked Questions