The Truth about Used Stair Lifts: 7 Things You Need to Know

Is the stairlift suitable for the stairs?

Not every stairlift fits every staircase. If you're buying from a private seller, you'll need to verify the stairlift is compatible with your specific staircase to ensure a proper fit. Stairlifts generally come in options for straight, curved, and outdoor stairs. A straight stairlift is typically more straightforward to install and can often be fitted without extensive customisation, making it a reliable option for homes with a single, uninterrupted staircase. However, a custom-fit rail is usually required for curved staircases to navigate turns and landings.

Scheduling an assessment with a trusted company is the best way to make sure the lift you choose will fit perfectly and function safely, whatever its shape. Stannah, our specialists are readily available over the phone, by email, or in one of our showrooms to help you start this process. When you're ready, we can visit your home to assess your needs and environment and determine the perfect fit.

What is the condition of the rail and chair?

When assessing a used stairlift, the condition of the rail and chair must be considered. A well-maintained and refurbished stairlift can last for years, but excessive wear may indicate the need for repairs or replacement parts sooner than expected. Taking the time to examine the condition of these components will give you a clearer picture of the stairlift's overall quality.

Our dedicated refurbishing team takes care of the assessment for you. We thoroughly clean, test, and replace any necessary parts before bringing the stairlift to your home, ensuring you receive a high-quality product ready for use.

Has the stairlift been reconditioned?

There's a difference between a used and a reconditioned stairlift. A reconditioned stairlift has undergone factory testing and refurbishing, where parts may be replaced, cleaned, or upgraded. This process brings it closer to "like-new" condition, making it a safer and more reliable option. A reconditioned unit offers better peace of mind than a standard used one, as the manufacturer has reviewed it for safety and quality.

You may be relieved to know all our stairlifts are reconditioned to meet strict quality standards so you can feel confident in your purchase.

Does the stairlift come with a warranty?

A warranty is an important factor when purchasing any used equipment, and stairlifts are no exception. Ask about the length and coverage of the warranty provided. Many reconditioned stairlifts come with limited warranties that cover certain repairs and parts. A warranty can protect you from unexpected repair costs and offers some assurance of quality. If a warranty isn't available, consider what repair options are accessible and weigh whether the lack of coverage is a potential risk.

Our refurbished stairlifts come with a 12-month warranty, including a call-out service. If anything should go wrong in the first year, you can contact us, and our team will assist and ensure your stairlift is back up and running.

What are the ongoing maintenance needs?

When buying a stairlift, understanding its reconditioning process and the importance of ongoing maintenance is key. Regular annual checks help extend the life and ensure optimal functioning of a stairlift.

We're always here to assist with your maintenance needs, helping you stay on top of yearly checks and keeping your stairlift in excellent condition for years to come.

Are replacement parts readily available?

Availability of replacement parts is critical when buying a used stairlift. Older or discontinued models may have limited parts availability, making future repairs costly and challenging. Check with the seller or manufacturer to ensure that replacement parts for the specific model are accessible. Easy access to parts can make maintenance smoother and help the stairlift remain functional.

When you buy one of our reconditioned stairlifts, we make accessing parts as seamless as possible so your stairlift can stay in working order.

Is installation included or available?

Installation is an essential factor when buying a used stairlift. Proper installation ensures the stairlift operates safely and reliably. Ask if installation is included in the purchase or if certified installers are available. Many models require specialised installation, so it's crucial to make sure qualified technicians are available to handle the setup correctly. All our stairlifts are installed by certified technicians, guaranteeing the safe and proper installation of every stairlift we sell.

Shop Stannah's Used and Refurbished Stairlifts

If you're looking for the benefits of a lower price with the peace of mind from purchasing from a trusted company, consider Stannah's certified refurbished stairlifts. Our refurbished stairlifts are pre-owned, and we've thoroughly checked, tested, and reconditioned them to ensure they meet our rigorous safety standards.

At Stannah, you're not just buying a stairlift; you're getting the complete package of support and reliability. Each refurbished stairlift is fitted with a new battery and has undergone part upgrades to meet current specifications. Additionally, every reconditioned model goes through a meticulous 42-point check before installation to ensure it's working flawlessly. As a reminder, our refurbished stairlifts include a 12-month warranty and a call-out service that is available to all customers even after the warranty has expired. If anything goes awry in the first year, you can reach out, and our team will get your stairlift back up and running.

Reach out today to book a free home visit. One of our specialists will assess your staircase and provide you with personalised advice tailored to your needs.