Installing a home lift is a significant investment, and prices vary enormously depending on the type of lift, your home’s layout, and the level of customisation you choose. In this guide we break down every cost involved — from the lift itself to installation, running costs, and maintenance — so you know exactly what to budget for.
home lift prices by Type
| Lift Type | Price Range (Supply) | Installation Cost | Total Installed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Through-floor platform lift | £6,000–£15,000 | £2,000–£4,000 | £8,000–£20,000 |
| Non-hydraulic (e.g. Stiltz) | £12,000–£20,000 | £2,000–£5,000 | £15,000–£25,000 |
| Hydraulic home lift | £18,000–£25,000 | £3,000–£6,000 | £23,000–£28,000 |
| Traction home lift | £22,000–£28,000 | £4,000–£7,000 | £28,000–£33,000 |
| Pneumatic vacuum lift | £25,000–£35,000 | £3,000–£5,000 | £28,000–£40,000 |
What Affects the Price?
Several factors can push costs up or down significantly:
- Number of floors — Each additional floor served adds £5,000–£10,000 to the cost
- Cabin size — Wheelchair-accessible cabins are larger and cost more than standard walk-in models
- Customisation — Glass panels, premium finishes, colour choices, and bespoke sizing all add to the price
- Structural work — If walls need reinforcing, floors opening up, or a shaft constructing, building costs apply on top
- Access difficulty — Tight spaces, older buildings, or listed properties may require specialist installation
Running Costs
Home lifts are surprisingly cheap to run. Most domestic lifts use a standard 13-amp plug socket and consume very little electricity — comparable to a large household appliance. Typical annual running costs are just £30–£50 in electricity. The main ongoing cost is servicing.
| Ongoing Cost | Typical Amount | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Annual service | £200–£500 | Once or twice yearly |
| Electricity | £30–£50 | Annual |
| Service contract | £300–£700/year | Annual (optional, includes callouts) |
| Emergency callout | £150–£350 | As needed (without contract) |
How to Save Money on a Home Lift
- Apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant — Can cover the full cost if you qualify. See our grants guide
- Claim VAT relief — Saves 20% if you have a qualifying disability
- Choose a through-floor lift — The most affordable type, with minimal building work needed
- Get multiple quotes — Prices vary significantly between suppliers. Always compare at least three
- Consider ex-display or reconditioned — Some suppliers offer refurbished models at reduced prices
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a home lift cheaper than moving house?
Usually, yes. The cost of selling and buying a property (estate agent fees, stamp duty, solicitors, removals) typically runs to £20,000–£50,000+. A through-floor lift or self-supporting lift can be significantly cheaper than moving to a bungalow or ground-floor flat, while keeping you in the home you know.
Does a home lift increase property value?
A well-installed home lift can add value to a property, particularly in multi-storey homes and areas with an older demographic. It makes the full property accessible and is an attractive feature for future-proofing. Estate agents increasingly view them as a selling point rather than a niche adaptation.
Can I get finance for a home lift?
Many suppliers offer interest-free finance or low-interest payment plans over 12 to 60 months. This can make even premium lifts affordable through manageable monthly payments. Always check the total cost including interest and compare against paying upfront.