Stairlifts: Your Complete Guide
A stairlift gives you back the freedom to use every floor of your home. Whether you need a straight rail, a curved track, or just want to understand the costs and grants available, this guide walks you through everything - from choosing the right type to getting help with funding.
Types of stairlift
Straight stairlift
The most common and affordable option. Fits staircases that go from bottom to top in a straight line with no turns. Fitted in 2 to 4 hours using a rail bolted to the stair treads, not the wall. Costs £2,000 to £4,000 new.
Curved stairlift
Custom-built for staircases with bends, turns, or intermediate landings. The rail is manufactured to match the exact shape of your stairs, which is why they cost significantly more - typically £5,000 to £10,000. Allow 4 to 6 weeks for the rail to be made.
Outdoor stairlift
Weatherproof models designed for external steps, such as garden paths or entrances. Built with marine-grade materials to resist rain, frost, and UV exposure. Costs £3,000 to £6,000. A lockable key switch prevents unauthorised use.
Reconditioned stairlift
A used stairlift that has been serviced, tested, and refitted with a new warranty. Straight reconditioned units cost £1,000 to £2,000 - roughly half the price of new. Availability depends on your staircase type, and curved reconditioned units are harder to find.
Stairlift guides
Stairlift cost guide
Full pricing for straight, curved, and outdoor stairlifts. Plus grants, rental, and how to save.
Stairlift grants & funding
Disabled Facilities Grant up to £30,000, VAT relief, charity funding, and council support.
Reconditioned stairlifts
Save 30-50% with a refurbished stairlift. What to check and where to buy.
Walk-in shower cost
Accessible shower costs — often done alongside stairlift installations.
Wheelchair ramp cost
Ground-floor access ramp costs and DFG grant options.
Common questions
Do I need planning permission for a stairlift?
No. Stairlifts are classed as a minor domestic alteration and do not require planning permission. They also do not need Building Regulations approval. The only requirement is that the staircase must be at least 750mm wide after the stairlift is fitted (when folded up) so that other people can still use the stairs safely.
How long does it take to fit a stairlift?
A straight stairlift takes 2 to 4 hours to install. Curved stairlifts take longer - usually 4 to 8 hours - because the rail is custom-made to fit the shape of the staircase. Most installations are completed in a single day with no structural changes to the property.
Can I get a grant for a stairlift?
Yes. The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is available through your local council and can cover the full cost of a stairlift. In England, the maximum grant is £30,000. You need an occupational therapist assessment to confirm the stairlift is necessary. The grant is means-tested for adults but not for children. Contact your local council's housing department to apply.
Is it better to buy or rent a stairlift?
If you need a stairlift for more than two years, buying is usually cheaper in the long run. Rental costs £50 to £100 per month, so over three years you would pay £1,800 to £3,600 - close to the cost of buying a straight stairlift outright. Renting makes more sense for short-term needs, such as recovery from surgery, or if you are unsure how long you will stay in the property.
Getting the best deal on a stairlift
Get at least three written quotes
Stairlift prices vary significantly between suppliers. The same straight stairlift can differ by £500 or more depending on the brand, the dealer, and whether an aftercare package is included. Always get at least three written quotes from reputable suppliers — the British Healthcare Trades Association (BHTA) maintains a directory of vetted stairlift dealers. Make sure each quote specifies the make and model, the warranty length, whether servicing is included, and the total price with VAT (stairlifts for disabled users may be VAT-exempt). Comparing like for like helps you spot inflated prices and ensures you are not paying for extras you do not need.
Need a stairlift?
See what a stairlift costs, check if you qualify for a grant, and find out how to get the best price.
See 2026 prices