Accessible Home Hub
WORLDWIDE PLANNING · EQUIPMENT GUIDE
Stairlifts and vertical platform lifts: compare the whole route
Compare transfers, wheelchair access, landing space, site preparation and aftercare before asking for a lift quotation.
Choose a route around the person
For changing mobility, use the lift and review questions in the adaptation timeline alongside an individual assessment and equipment survey. Planning link added 30 October 2026; the equipment source-review dates below are unchanged.
A seated stairlift usually involves a transfer at each end. A vertical platform lift can carry a compatible wheelchair between levels, but platform size, approach space and gates must suit the route. Discuss transfers and assistance with an assessor before choosing equipment.
| Type | Planning focus | What the survey must establish |
|---|---|---|
| Straight stairlift | Seated travel on a straight rail | Stair condition, usable clearance, transfers and rail parking |
| Curved stairlift | Rail tailored to bends and landings | Measured route, delivery times and access for other stair users |
| Vertical platform lift | Wheelchair travel between levels | Combined load, platform fit, gates, support and approach space |
Dimensions and structure are model-specific
Do not treat a 36-inch stair width or a four-inch concrete slab as a universal installation specification. Stannah describes stair-width requirements that vary with configuration. Savaria directs installers to model-specific planning guides, foundation and anchoring requirements and local codes. Have the installer or structural professional confirm the actual support design.
As a named example, Savaria’s V-1504 lists a standard capacity of 750 lb (340 kg). This is not a rating for every lift; count the wheelchair, occupant and any permitted accompanying load and verify the exact model.
Power, gates and safe operation
- Ask which controls and transfers the resident can operate and how assistance will work.
- Check obstruction detection, stopping, gate interlocks and emergency lowering for the selected model.
- Ask whether outage protection permits lowering only or full travel. Battery performance depends on model, condition and charging.
- Agree a usable alternative if the equipment is unavailable and arrange servicing and emergency support.
Compare installed quotes in your currency
Request an itemised local quote rather than relying on worldwide dollar ranges. Include survey, rail or lift, foundations, gates, electrical work, permissions, delivery, installation, training, warranty and servicing. Check whether removal, moving costs and access during works are excluded.
Read the straight versus curved stairlift guide · Open the quote comparison record
Sources and further reading
- Stannah: stairlift space and power requirements
- Savaria: platform lift site preparation
- Savaria: V-1504 specifications
Checked 8 October 2026. No hands-on testing or individual suitability assessment is claimed.
Turn this guide into a plan
Choose the next step that fits your project. These tools help prepare a discussion; they do not replace an individual assessment.