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A home stairlift can allow you to live independently in your own home if mobility becomes a problem. You won’t have to rely on other people for help moving around and there’s no need to give up your beloved home for a new property without stairs.

But should you rent or invest in buying a home stairlift?

How Much Do Stairlifts Cost?

A 2020 survey conducted by the independent consumer organisation, Which? revealed that the average price paid for a new stairlift was £3,284. Although this represents a significant investment for many people — especially those who are solely reliant on a pension for their income — a stairlift can dramatically improve a person’s quality of life. 

What’s more, the cost of buying and installing a stairlift has remained fairly static for years. As the cost of living has steadily climbed, the price tag for a stairlift has barely risen, making them a cost-effective purchase. 

The most basic stairlifts cost as little as £1,950 from new and you could save even more by opting for a reconditioned model. 

It’s worth checking if you are eligible for a Disabled Facilities Grant to help cover the cost of buying and installing a stairlift in your home.

The Benefits of Renting a Home Stairlift

If you or a family member only need a lift for a short time — when recovering from an operation or before entering residential care, for example — renting is a good option. Perhaps you have a loved one staying at your home temporarily and cannot afford to install a stairlift just for their stay?

Renting is an affordable and flexible option because it does not commit you to a large financial outlay nor making permanent alterations to your property. Furthermore, all parts, repairs and servicing are included in the rental fee. If your circumstances change, buying is always an option. However, don’t forget to take into account the “total lifetime cost” of your stairlift — renting over a long period will work out more expensive than buying.

If you’re unsure about whether to buy, renting can be a helpful way to decide if a stairlift is the right solution before you invest in one. 

Business owners may also prefer to rent a stairlift instead of buying one if they need to provide access for a customer or employee on a short term basis. Renting a lift is a convenient and budget-friendly solution.

The Benefits of Buying a Stairlift

For those with long-standing mobility issues, buying a home stairlift is a savvy investment. The price tag may seem daunting, but a stairlift can be life-changing and a well-made and maintained stairlift will serve you for years to come.

If you have specific needs, limited or awkward space or a particular aesthetic in mind, buying may open up more choices and unlike renting, won’t tie you into a monthly fee.

Government funding is also available for the purchase of home stairlifts. You can apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant if you or someone you are living with are disabled and you intend to live in the property during the five year grant period. You may be eligible for the grant whether you’re the owner or a tenant.

Choosing the Right Stairlift

Whether you choose to buy or rent, take the time to find a stairlift that suits your needs, home and budget. Some important factors to consider when buying a stairlift include:

  • Is the company you are buying or renting from reliable? Are they established and experienced? Do they stock high-quality products from reputable manufacturers and have verifiable customer reviews? Does the company belong to a reputable trade body? Are the installation staff DBS checked?
  • Have you had a needs assessment from a qualified professional? An Occupational Therapist or Disabled Living Foundation (DLF) Trusted Assessor should conduct an initial assessment to ensure that the stairlift you choose will meet your current and future needs.
  • Does the company provide servicing and repairs? Watch out for companies that charge a low price upfront then add on an expensive service contract or outsource repairs and maintenance to a third party. Only Lifts provides customers with a 24/7 direct line to your engineer for support day and night. 
  • What are your specific needs? Are your stairs straight or curved? What size chair will be comfortable for the person who needs to use it? At Only Lifts, your Trusted Assessor will be able to advise you on the most suitable model for your needs and the space in your home.

If you’re buying a stairlift, you might choose to keep costs low by purchasing a reconditioned lift. Provided repair parts are still available for the model you purchase, this can be a cost-effective choice.

Only Lifts offers a wide range of new and reconditioned, indoor and outdoor stairlifts to rent or buy. We pride ourselves on providing reliability, suitability and safety, whatever option you choose. Speak to a member of the Only Lifts team about your needs today — we’re here to help!