Things to Consider When Buying a Stairlift

Our state-of-the-art showrooms in Birmingham and Worcestershire provide the perfect opportunity for you to browse our wide range of stairlifts. It is easy and convenient with free parking just outside the front door. There is also wheelchair accessible toilet facilities and our friendly staff are always happy to help you choose the ideal solution for your home.

To ensure we can give you our full attention when visiting, please call your local showroom and let us know when you’d like to come by. W’re open Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5pm (excluding bank holidays) and Saturdays until 3pm.

How much does a stairlift cost?

To get a more detailed idea of price there are several factors that can determine the cost of a new stairlift:

• Will the stairlift be positioned and fitted on a curved or straight staircase? A curved stairlift is far more involved and therefore more expensive.
• Obstructions at the top or bottom of the stairs can potentially add to the overall cost of a stairlift installation. Common obstacles for example are radiators at the bottom of the stairs which will need to be removed prior to a stairlift installation.
• Trip hazards such as doorways can possibly add to the overall cost of a stairlift. Health and safety is paramount when fitting a lift and no trip hazards can be present. Using options such as slide track stairlifts or hinge tracks will enable the lift to be used safely in the home.
• New or reconditioned? Choosing to go with a new stairlift or reconditioned is always going to affect the cost of your stairlift. New stairlifts obviously cost more but will come with a full breakdown warranty. On the other hand reconditioned models tend to come with a smaller warranty period but can offer excellent value for money.
• New stairlifts tend to carry a higher resale value over reconditioned lifts. However it is worth noting that there is very little resale value in a used stairlift. This should be factored into your overall decision about the age of the stairlift that you decide to have installed.

A stairlift provides a life-changing solution for those with mobility issues, allowing them to stay in their own home and leading more independent lives. While the thought of such an investment can be intimidating, it’s often far cheaper than other options – but one important question remains: How much does it cost?

Key cost factors of a stairlift installation

When deciding on a stairlift, you must consider many factors – such as the type of staircase (curved or straight), length and number of steps, turns if curved stairs are present, obstructions at either end of the staircase. These details all factor into what kind of lift you will need to purchase as they can drastically affect price.

Opting for reconditioned equipment instead new will offer cost savings but also potentially lower the warranty period and resale value depending on the age of the used stairlift. For more on reconditioned pricing, please visit magbility reconditioned stairlifts.

Some typical pricing examples

Typically the average price of a brand new straight stairlift, such as the 1100 Handicare Straight Stairlift, is £1,550. This price includes fitting by a professional stairlift engineer and is for the basic model with no add-ons such as power-swivel seats or slide tracks. And the average price of a new curvred stairlift, such as the Curved Handicare 2000 Stairlift, is £3,750 including fitting.

Both of the above examples include installation and are brand new models and exclusive of Value Added Tax (VAT). Fortunately, individuals within the UK that are eligible should never be charged VAT on their stairlift as per laws enacted by the Government in Notice 701/7 VAT Reliefs for Disabled People (August 2002).

What this means in practical terms is that more people can afford to purchase and invest in a stairlift than make alterations to their home or move house. There’s some really helpful information about Disabled Facilities Grants on the UK government official website.

Why do curved stairlifts cost more than straight stairlifts?

From Handicare Simplicity 950 to the tnew curved 4000, stairlifts come in a variety of shapes and sizes – but why does this impact their cost? It’s because complexity factors into every twist and turn. A curved track requires more components for construction & installation, making it more expensive than a straight one. However there are ways to minimize these costs during purchase so be sure to explore your options when considering purchasing a stairlift!

Stairlift warranties

The above options also include a 2 year parts, call out and labour Peace of Mind warranty. Alternatively many direct stairlift companies offer a 1 year warranty with some type of service contract and in these cases we would strongly suggest checking how the call outs and maintenance cost will work once the warranty period has expired.

Stairlift warranties tend to only extend to 1 year on our reconditioned models and it is worth checking with your local stairlift supplier on used stairlift models.

Stairlift surveys

When considering the purchase of a stairlift, it’s worth having the home surveyed first. Depending on features included, models vary widely in price and, to ensure you select a stairlift that fits your budget and is suited to your home and family, it’s important to have an expert surveyor evaluate the space before you choose any particular model.

You may find that certain extras such as a remote control or harness seat-belt are essential for multiple stairlift users or if someone in the home suffers from health issues such as vertigo – these factors should be taken into account when selecting a model.

Flexibility of the user will also be a factor in the type of lift to be installed. Perch seats for narrow staircases or users with restricted hip movement are an innovative solution to providing lift access for those with limited movement, or those with limted space. Rather than sitting in a traditional seat, users ‘perch’ on a shortened seat with retractable belt, allowing them a stable support area while still being almost in a standing position.

Curved stairlift surveys

It is worth noting that curved surveys are more involved than a straight stairlift and require a 3D model to be made of the stairs to check for key areas such as knee and head clearance on bends. This is applicable across our entire range of curved stairlifts including reconditioned models.

Try before you buy at one of our Midlands showrooms

Gathering information on stairlift models from a website or brochure does not adequately convey how they work or feel when in use. The only real way of getting a feel for how comfortable and easy manufacturers such as Handicare stairlifts are, is by trying one before you commit to buying.

Our showroom can be a good place to both start and finalise your stairlift journey. Having the opportunity to try out add-ons such as a Handicare powered footrest, or motorised swivel seats can’t be underestimated.

If you are planning to come and see us at Magbility, it is best to book a thorough stairlift demonstration in one of our Midlands showrooms. Here you can take a test ride on either straight or curved stairlifts to get an understanding of their comfort level and operations.

Is it possible for me to get a grant?

If you’re looking for support with a stairlift, there are several potential sources available. Disabled Facilities Grants can provide up to £30k (means-tested) through local councils and Independence at Home offer grants averaging around £360 per qualified applicant. Furthermore, SSAFA – the armed forces charity – provides help specifically tailored towards veterans’ needs which may include access to financial assistance or other aid related to stairlifts.