Stairlifts
Everything you need to know about buying a stairlift in the UK. Costs, types, top brands, grants, and what to expect from installation.
How Much Does a Stairlift Cost?
Stairlift prices vary considerably depending on the type of staircase you have and whether you buy new or reconditioned. Here is what you can expect to pay in the UK.
| Type | Price Range | Installation | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Straight (New) | £2,000 – £3,500 | 2-4 hours | 2-5 years |
| Curved (New) | £4,000 – £8,000 | Half a day | 2-5 years |
| Outdoor (New) | £3,000 – £5,000 | 3-5 hours | 2-3 years |
| Straight (Reconditioned) | £1,200 – £2,500 | 2-4 hours | 1-2 years |
| Curved (Reconditioned) | £3,000 – £5,500 | Half a day | 1-2 years |
| Stairlift Rental | £50 – £100/month | 2-4 hours | Included |
Why Are Curved Stairlifts More Expensive?
Curved stairlifts require a custom-built rail that follows the exact shape of your staircase, including bends, landings, and intermediate floors. Each rail is manufactured to order based on a surveyor’s measurements. Straight stairlifts use a standard rail that can be cut to length on the day of installation, which is why they cost significantly less.
Top Stairlift Brands in the UK
| Brand | Made In | Straight From | Curved From | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stannah | UK (Andover) | £2,500 | £5,000 | Market leader. 150+ year heritage. Wide dealer network. |
| Acorn | UK (Bradford) | £2,000 | £4,500 | Fast installation. Slimline rail design. |
| Handicare (Freelift) | Netherlands | £2,200 | £4,800 | Compact fold. Good for narrow stairs. |
| Bruno | USA | £2,800 | £5,500 | Heavy-duty options up to 180kg capacity. |
| Thyssen (TK Access) | Germany | £2,400 | £5,200 | Smooth ride technology. Quiet operation. |
Read our detailed brand comparison →
Pros and Cons
Advantages
- Stay in your own home rather than moving to a bungalow or care facility
- Use your entire house safely, including upstairs bedrooms and bathrooms
- Quick installation, usually completed in a single morning
- Reduces fall risk on stairs, which is a leading cause of injury for over-65s
- Modern models fold flat against the wall, leaving stairs usable by other household members
Disadvantages
- Curved stairlifts are expensive, especially for complex staircases
- May reduce the width of the staircase, which can be an issue in older properties
- Battery replacement is needed every 2-3 years (typically £100-200)
- Some users find the swivel seat awkward at the top of the stairs
- Removal costs £200-400 if no longer needed
Grants and Funding
Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG)
The DFG is available from your local council and can cover the full cost of a stairlift. It is means-tested for adults (not for children) and covers adaptations up to £30,000 in England. To apply, contact your council and request an occupational therapy assessment. The OT will visit your home, assess your needs, and recommend suitable adaptations. Processing times vary but typically take 6-12 weeks.
Other Funding Sources
- Benevolent funds – Many trade and professional organisations offer grants for members or former members
- Age UK – Can help identify local grants and provide advice on funding applications
- Turn2Us – Online grants search tool to find charitable funding based on your circumstances
- Veterans – The Royal British Legion and SSAFA provide adaptation grants for ex-service personnel
- VAT exemption – Stairlifts purchased by a disabled person are zero-rated for VAT, saving 20%
Installation: What to Expect
A stairlift engineer will visit your home to survey the staircase before any work begins. For a straight stairlift, they measure the length and angle. For a curved stairlift, they take a detailed digital survey of every bend and landing.
On installation day, the rail is fixed to the stair treads (not the wall), so no structural work is needed. Power comes from a standard 13-amp plug socket at the top or bottom of the stairs. The entire process takes 2-4 hours for straight stairs. The engineer will demonstrate operation and safety features before leaving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a stairlift damage my stairs?
The rail is fixed to the stair treads using screws. When removed, small holes remain that can easily be filled and carpeted over. No structural damage is caused to the stairs or walls.
What happens during a power cut?
All modern stairlifts run on rechargeable batteries that charge from the mains. During a power cut, the stairlift will continue to operate normally for several journeys. The batteries typically hold enough charge for 10-20 trips.
How wide do my stairs need to be?
Most stairlifts require a minimum staircase width of 28 inches (71cm). When folded, modern stairlifts leave 24-26 inches of clear stair width. If your staircase is narrower than 28 inches, slimline models from Handicare or Acorn may be suitable.
Can I install a stairlift myself?
DIY installation is not recommended. Professional installation ensures the rail is correctly aligned, safety sensors are calibrated, and the unit meets UK safety standards. Incorrect installation could be dangerous and would void the warranty.
How long does a stairlift last?
A well-maintained stairlift typically lasts 10-15 years. Annual servicing costs £100-200 and includes safety checks, lubrication, and battery testing. Most manufacturers recommend servicing at least once per year.
Stairlift Buyer’s Checklist
- Get at least 3 quotes from different suppliers
- Check if you qualify for a Disabled Facilities Grant before paying privately
- Ask about reconditioned options to save 30-40%
- Confirm the warranty length and what it covers
- Ask whether servicing is included in the price
- Check the weight capacity matches the user’s needs
- Ensure the seat swivels at the top for safe dismounting
- Ask about removal costs if the stairlift is no longer needed