Thinking about a stairlift?
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First things first

Is a stairlift right for you?

Stairs are one of the most common places accidents happen at home, especially as we get older or if mobility changes. A stairlift removes that daily risk and, just as importantly, lets people stay in the home they love rather than moving or living downstairs.

A stairlift is often the right answer if someone is finding the stairs tiring, unsteady or painful, is at risk of a fall, or is recovering from surgery or illness. If the person uses a wheelchair and can't transfer to a seat, a different solution (such as a through-floor lift) may suit better - and we'll tell you honestly if that's the case.

Straight vs curved

Which type of stairlift do you need?

It mostly comes down to the shape of your staircase. This is the single biggest factor in what you'll need and what it costs:

• Straight stairlift - for stairs that run in one straight line with no bends or landings. The rail is a standard length, so it's the most affordable and quickest to fit, often in a single visit.
• Curved stairlift - for stairs that bend, turn or have a half-landing. The rail is custom-built to your staircase, which means a survey, a longer lead time, and a higher price than a straight lift.

Older Merseyside homes, especially terraces, often have a turn or half-landing partway up - so curved stairlifts are more common here than people expect. Not sure which you've got? Our stairlifts overview lets you compare, and the free visit confirms it.

Weighing up value

New or reconditioned?

Once you know the type, the next question is new or reconditioned. Both are safe when properly checked - it's really about budget and choice:

Reconditioned choice is widest for straight staircases, because curved rails are made to measure. Whichever route you take, it's fitted and checked by the same team, to the same standard.

The question everyone asks

What does a stairlift cost?

It's the first thing most people want to know, and the honest answer is: it depends on your stairs. The two biggest factors are whether you need a straight or curved lift, and whether it's new or reconditioned.

As a rough guide, a straight stairlift is the most affordable option because the rail is standard. A curved stairlift costs more because the rail is custom-built to the exact shape of your staircase - every one is different, so there's no single price. A reconditioned model can bring the cost down further, especially on straight stairs.

Before you pay, it's always worth checking whether you qualify for help - see our grants & funding guide. Many people are eligible for VAT relief (0% if disabled, 5% if over 60), and some qualify for a Disabled Facilities Grant that covers part or all of the cost.

From first call to fitted

How the process works

Getting a stairlift is more straightforward than most people imagine. Here's what to expect with us:

Buy with confidence

Choosing a stairlift company

A stairlift is a big decision, often made at a stressful time. Whoever you choose, here's what's worth looking for:

• A proper home assessment before any price - a stairlift can't be quoted accurately without seeing the stairs.
• A clear written quote with no hidden extras, and no pressure to sign on the day.
• Fully insured, DBS-checked fitters - they're working in your home, often with vulnerable people.
• Genuine aftercare - will the same people be there to service it and answer the phone later?
• Honest advice on funding - a good company helps you claim VAT relief and points you toward grants, rather than glossing over them.

We built Mersey Stairlifts to do exactly these things: a local, independent team who'll give you straight answers, fair prices and proper aftercare - not a national call centre.

Common questions

Buying a stairlift - FAQs