How Much Does a Stairlift Cost in 2026?
A new straight stairlift costs £2,000–£4,000. A curved stairlift costs £5,000–£12,000+. Reconditioned straight stairlifts start from around £1,000. Rental is typically £70–200/month. VAT is zero-rated if the stairlift is for a disabled person.
If you're helping a parent or loved one stay in their own home, a stairlift is often one of the first things families look into. The good news is that prices haven't risen as steeply as many feared over the past couple of years, and there are more options than ever — from brand-new models to reconditioned bargains and flexible rental plans.
The cost of a stairlift depends on three main things: whether your staircase is straight or curved, whether you buy new or reconditioned, and which supplier you choose. Let's break each of these down so you know exactly what to expect.
Straight stairlifts
A straight stairlift runs along a single, uninterrupted flight of stairs with no bends, turns or intermediate landings. Because the track is a standard design that doesn't need to be custom-manufactured, straight stairlifts are significantly cheaper than curved models. You can expect to pay between £2,000 and £4,000 for a new straight stairlift, fully installed. Reconditioned models typically start from around £1,000.
Curved stairlifts
If your staircase has bends, turns, a half-landing, or goes up more than one flight, you'll need a curved stairlift. These cost considerably more — typically £5,000 to £12,000 or even above for complex layouts — because the rail must be custom-designed and manufactured to fit the exact shape of your staircase. Every curved track is unique, which is why a home survey is essential before you receive a quote.
Outdoor stairlifts
Outdoor stairlifts are weatherproof models designed for external steps, such as those leading up to a front door or down to a garden. They feature sealed electrics, weather-resistant seats and covers to protect against the British rain. Expect to pay £3,000–£6,000 new, or £2,000–£4,000 for a reconditioned model.
| Type | New Price | Reconditioned Price | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Straight stairlift | £2,000–£4,000 | £1,000–£2,500 | Standard track; quickest to install |
| Curved stairlift | £5,000–£12,000+ | Rarely available | Custom track for your staircase; longest lead time |
| Outdoor stairlift | £3,000–£6,000 | £2,000–£4,000 | Weatherproof; includes protective cover |
Why curved stairlifts cost so much more
The price difference can feel surprising until you understand what's involved. A straight stairlift uses a standard, off-the-shelf track that can be cut to length on the day of installation. A curved stairlift, on the other hand, requires a surveyor to take precise measurements of every bend, angle and landing on your staircase. Those measurements are sent to a factory where a bespoke track is manufactured — a process that takes one to three weeks. The engineering required for each unique configuration is what drives the cost up.
Extra costs to be aware of
The headline price of a stairlift typically includes the unit itself and standard installation. However, there are a few additional costs worth budgeting for:
- Annual servicing: £100–£200 per year. Most suppliers recommend an annual service to keep the stairlift running safely and to maintain your warranty. Some suppliers include the first year's service in the purchase price.
- Extended warranty: If the standard warranty is 12 months, you may want to extend it. Extended warranties typically cost £100–£300 per year depending on the manufacturer.
- Removal: If you ever need the stairlift removed, many suppliers will do this free of charge (particularly if they're buying back the unit), though some charge around £150–£200.
- Electrical work: A stairlift plugs into a standard 13-amp socket, but if there isn't one near the bottom of the stairs, you may need an electrician to install one. This usually costs £50–£150.
New vs Reconditioned Stairlifts
Choosing between a new and reconditioned stairlift is one of the biggest decisions you'll make, and it can save you a good deal of money. Here's what each option actually involves.
What does "reconditioned" actually mean?
The word "reconditioned" sometimes makes people nervous, but when done properly it's a thorough process. Here's what a reputable supplier will do:
- Strip the stairlift down to its component parts
- Replace all worn or ageing components, including batteries, gears and rollers
- Fit a brand-new seat, armrests and footrest (or re-upholster the originals to as-new condition)
- Carry out a complete electrical safety check to current standards
- Test the stairlift through multiple full cycles before it leaves the workshop
- Provide a written warranty — typically 12 months for parts and labour
The key is to choose a supplier who is transparent about their reconditioning process. Ask them exactly what they replace and what they inspect. If they're vague or evasive, look elsewhere.
Stairlift Rental — Is It Worth It?
Not everyone needs a stairlift permanently. If your mum is recovering from a hip operation and will only need help on the stairs for a few months, rental can be a sensible and cost-effective option.
What does rental cost?
Stairlift rental typically costs between £70 and £200 per month, depending on the model, the supplier, and whether your staircase is straight or curved. Most rental agreements include installation, maintenance and removal when you no longer need it, so the monthly price is usually all-in.
When rental makes sense
- Short-term recovery: After surgery, a fall, or an illness that temporarily affects mobility
- Temporary living situation: If your parent is staying with you for a few months while their own home is adapted
- Trial before purchase: Some families use rental as a way to try a stairlift before committing to buy
- Waiting for a grant: If a Disabled Facilities Grant is taking months to process, rental can bridge the gap
When rental doesn't make sense
If the stairlift is needed for the long term, buying is nearly always cheaper. Let's do a simple comparison with a straight stairlift to illustrate:
| Duration | Rental (£100/month) | Rental (£150/month) | Buy New (£2,500) | Buy Reconditioned (£1,200) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 months | £600 | £900 | £2,500 | £1,200 |
| 12 months | £1,200 | £1,800 | £2,500 | £1,200 |
| 18 months | £1,800 | £2,700 | £2,500 | £1,200 |
| 24 months | £2,400 | £3,600 | £2,500 | £1,200 |
As you can see, at around the 12–18 month mark, rental starts to overtake the cost of buying outright. If you expect to need the stairlift for more than a year, purchasing — new or reconditioned — is almost certainly better value.
One thing to remember: most rental agreements include ongoing maintenance and a free removal when the rental ends. If you buy, you'll need to budget separately for annual servicing and eventual removal.
Grants to Help with the Cost
A stairlift can feel like a significant expense, but there are several grants and schemes designed to help. Here are the main ones available in 2026.
Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG)
The Disabled Facilities Grant is the most well-known source of help and is available throughout England and Wales. It's provided by your local council and can cover the full cost of a stairlift, including installation.
- Maximum amount: Up to £30,000 in England, £36,000 in Wales
- Means-tested: Your income and savings will be assessed to determine how much you contribute. If your income is below a certain threshold, you may pay nothing at all
- Application: You apply through your local council's housing or environmental health department
- Processing time: Allow 6–12 months from first enquiry to completion, though some councils are quicker than others
- Occupational therapist assessment: An OT will visit your home to assess your needs and recommend the most appropriate adaptations
The DFG is not limited to stairlifts — it can also cover other home adaptations such as wet rooms, ramps, widened doorways and through-floor lifts. If your parent needs multiple adaptations, these can often be bundled into a single application.
VAT exemption
If the person using the stairlift is chronically sick or has a disability, the stairlift is zero-rated for VAT. This means you pay no VAT at all — an immediate saving of 20%. You don't need any special documentation to claim this; you simply sign a declaration form provided by the supplier confirming that the stairlift is for a person who is chronically sick or disabled. The vast majority of stairlift buyers qualify for this.
Foundations
Foundations is the national body for home improvement agencies in England. They can help you find your local Home Improvement Agency (HIA), which in turn can assist with DFG applications, sourcing quotes, and managing the installation process. This service is particularly helpful for older people who live alone and may find the paperwork daunting. It's free of charge.
Age UK and local charities
Age UK and its local branches sometimes have hardship funds or can provide small grants towards the cost of home adaptations. It's always worth contacting your local Age UK branch to ask what's available in your area. Other local charities, community foundations, and rotary clubs may also be able to help — it varies enormously by area, so do ask around.
Benevolent funds
Many professions have their own benevolent funds or charity organisations that support retired members. If your parent worked in teaching, nursing, the armed forces, the police, the fire service, retail, or numerous other professions, there may be a charity fund specifically for people who worked in that sector. The Turn2us grant search tool can help you find funds you may be eligible for.
How to apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant
- Contact your local council's housing or environmental health department and tell them you'd like to apply for a Disabled Facilities Grant for a stairlift or home adaptation.
- Request an occupational therapist (OT) assessment. The council will arrange for an OT to visit your home — this is free of charge. The OT will assess your parent's mobility needs and the layout of the home.
- The OT recommends the adaptations needed. Their report goes to the council and forms the basis of the grant application. For a stairlift, they'll confirm it's the most appropriate solution.
- The council assesses your financial situation (means test). Your income, savings and outgoings are considered. People on certain benefits may be fast-tracked or exempt from the means test.
- If approved, the council either arranges the work directly or provides a grant for you to commission it yourself. The grant can cover the full cost or a proportion, depending on the means test outcome.
- You can choose your own supplier — you don't have to use the council's preferred contractor. This means you can shop around for the best price and service. Just make sure the supplier meets the council's requirements.
Top UK Stairlift Suppliers Compared
There are several well-established stairlift suppliers operating across the UK. Prices, warranty periods and service levels vary, so it's well worth getting quotes from more than one. Here's a snapshot of the main names.
| Supplier | Types Offered | Price Guide | Warranty | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Stairlifts | Straight + curved | £2,000–£10,000 | 12 months | UK's largest manufacturer |
| Stannah | Straight + curved | £2,500–£12,000 | 2 years | Premium quality, family-owned since 1867 |
| Brooks by Acorn | Straight | From £2,000 | 12 months | Budget-friendly range |
| Handicare (Savaria) | Straight + curved | £2,000–£10,000 | 2 years | Slim rail design |
| Platinum Stairlifts | Reconditioned specialist | From £1,000 | 12 months | Best for budget buyers |
Acorn Stairlifts
Acorn is the UK's largest stairlift manufacturer and one of the most recognisable names in the industry. They design, manufacture and install their own stairlifts from their factory in Yorkshire. Acorn offers both straight and curved models, with a reputation for quick turnaround times — sometimes installing within 48 hours of the survey for straight staircases. Their 12-month warranty is standard, though extended warranty plans are available.
Stannah
Stannah is arguably the most trusted name in the UK stairlift market. A family-owned British company since 1867, they have an extensive range of straight and curved stairlifts that are well-regarded for build quality, quiet operation and reliability. Their two-year warranty is among the best in the industry, and they have a nationwide network of engineers for servicing and repairs. They tend to sit at the premium end of the price range, but many families feel the extra cost is worth it for the peace of mind.
Brooks by Acorn
Brooks is Acorn's budget-friendly brand, offering straight stairlifts at a lower price point. The models are simpler and have fewer bells and whistles, but they're manufactured to the same safety standards. If you have a straightforward straight staircase and want a reliable stairlift without paying top-end prices, Brooks is worth considering.
Handicare (now Savaria)
Handicare, now part of the Savaria group, is a well-established European manufacturer known for their slim rail design. The narrower track is particularly useful for homes with tight staircases, as it takes up less space on the stairs. They offer both straight and curved models with a two-year warranty, and their products are widely available through independent dealers across the UK.
Platinum Stairlifts
Platinum Stairlifts specialise in reconditioned stairlifts, making them a go-to option for budget-conscious buyers. They source quality used stairlifts, refurbish them to a high standard in their workshop, and sell them at a fraction of the new price. Straight stairlifts start from around £1,000 fully installed. They're a good choice if you want a reliable stairlift without paying full price, and their 12-month warranty provides reasonable protection.
What to Ask Before You Buy
Buying a stairlift can feel overwhelming, especially if you're doing it for the first time. The sales process varies between suppliers, and not all of them are upfront about pricing or what's included. Here are the questions you should ask every supplier before committing to a purchase.
- Is a home survey included free of charge? It should be. A reputable supplier will always survey your staircase before quoting, and this survey should be free and without obligation. Never buy a stairlift without a professional survey first — measurements taken over the phone are not sufficient.
- Is the track custom-made for my staircase? For curved stairlifts, the answer is always yes — the track is bespoke. For straight stairlifts, the track is standard but will be cut to the exact length of your stairs during installation.
- What exactly is included in the warranty? Ask specifically about parts, labour and callout charges. A good warranty covers all three. Some suppliers offer a generous warranty on parts but charge separately for engineer callouts — that's worth knowing upfront.
- What happens if it breaks down? What's the response time? Ask about the typical callout time for repairs. A response within 24–48 hours is reasonable. Some premium suppliers offer same-day or next-day service.
- Can I try before I buy? Some suppliers have showrooms where you can try a stairlift in person. Others offer short trial periods or demonstrations in your home. It's well worth trying one if you can, especially if your parent is nervous about using one.
- Is there a callout charge after the warranty expires? Once the warranty period ends, you'll typically pay for any repairs or callouts. Charges range from £80 to £150 per visit, plus the cost of any parts. Knowing this upfront helps you decide whether an extended warranty or service plan is worth it.
- What happens if I no longer need it? Many suppliers offer a buy-back scheme where they'll purchase the stairlift back from you at a reduced price. Others will remove it free of charge. Some charge around £150–£200 for removal. This is worth asking about, particularly if the stairlift may only be needed for a few years.
- Is the price inclusive of installation? It almost always is, but it's worth confirming. The quoted price should include the stairlift unit, the track, delivery, and a professional installation by a qualified engineer. Any extras (such as electrical work or additional track length) should be itemised clearly.
Get at least 3 quotes. Stairlift pricing varies significantly between suppliers, and some charge for home surveys that others offer free. A few hours spent gathering quotes can easily save you £500 or more.
Alternatives to Consider
A stairlift is the most common solution, but it's not the only one. Depending on your family's situation, one of these alternatives might be more appropriate.
For most families, a stairlift remains the most cost-effective and least disruptive solution. It can usually be installed within a week or two, it doesn't require any structural changes to the home, and it gives your loved one the independence to move between floors safely without help.
Frequently Asked Questions
A straight stairlift can usually be installed in 2–4 hours. Curved stairlifts take longer — typically a full day — because the track is custom-made to fit your staircase. Most suppliers will arrange installation within 1–2 weeks of your survey. For straight stairlifts, some suppliers offer next-day or even same-day installation if you need it urgently.
No. Stairlifts are fixed to the stair treads, not the wall. When removed, the small screw holes in the treads can be easily filled with wood filler or covered with carpet. Your wallpaper, paint and walls should not be affected at all. The track sits on top of the treads and leaves the handrail and walls completely untouched.
Most stairlifts need a minimum staircase width of around 28–29 inches (71–74cm). If your stairs are narrower than this, slim-line models are available from manufacturers like Stannah and Handicare, which feature a thinner track and a seat that folds flat against the wall when not in use. A home survey will confirm whether your stairs are suitable, and the surveyor can recommend the most appropriate model for your width.
An annual service is recommended to keep the stairlift running safely and to maintain any warranty. During a service, an engineer will check the track, motor, batteries, seat belt, safety sensors and all moving parts. Service plans typically cost £100–£200 per year. Many suppliers include the first year's service in the purchase price, and some offer discounted multi-year service plans.
Yes, absolutely. As long as neither user exceeds the weight limit (typically 120–160kg depending on the model), any number of people can use the same stairlift. Each person simply sits on the seat, fastens the seat belt, and uses the joystick or toggle controls to ride up or down. The stairlift doesn't need separate programming for different users — it works the same way for everyone.
Check if you qualify for a Disabled Facilities Grant
The DFG can cover the full cost of a stairlift and installation. It's means-tested and available throughout England and Wales. Start by contacting your local council or apply online.
Apply on GOV.UK