Old stairlift: sell, remove or scrap it? If you have an old stairlift in your home that’s no longer needed, you might be wondering what the best option is. Whether the stairlift belonged to a relative, you’re moving house, or you’ve upgraded to a new model, there are usually three main options available:
- Sell the stairlift – some companies will give you money for it
- Have the stairlift removed by a local trader/scrap merchant
- Scrap or dispose of it yourself – see stairlift removal
Each option depends on the make, model, age and condition of the stairlift, as well as your personal circumstances. Below, we’ll explain the pros and cons of each option so you can decide the best course of action.
Old Stairlift: Sell, Remove or Scrap?
1. Selling an Old Stairlift
In many cases, the best option is to sell your stairlift rather than remove or scrap it.
Some stairlift companies purchase used stairlifts that can be reconditioned and installed in another home, helping to make mobility equipment more affordable for future customers.
Stairlifts that are most likely to be resold include:
- Straight stairlifts
- Well-known brands (such as Stannah, Acorn, Handicare, etc.)
- Stairlifts that are less than 10–12 years old
- Units in good working condition
Selling a stairlift can also help recover some of the original cost.
If you’re unsure about the value of your lift, you may find our guide useful and find out how much your used stairlift is worth.
Old Stairlift: Sell, Remove or Scrap – The Benefits of selling a stairlift
- You may receive payment for the stairlift
- The equipment can be refurbished and reused
- Someone else can benefit from the lift
- It avoids unnecessary waste
If you’d like to explore your options for selling a stairlift, you can learn more about selling a second hand stairlift here:
Old Stairlift: Sell, Remove or Scrap2. Removing an Old Stairlift
If your stairlift is too old, damaged, or obsolete, it may need to be removed instead.
Stairlift removal involves safely taking out:
- The stairlift chair
- The rail attached to the staircase
- Electrical components and brackets
Professional removal ensures the staircase is left tidy and safe, which is particularly important if you are:
- Selling the property
- Renovating the home
- Installing a different stairlift model
You can learn more about the process on our stairlift removal page.
Why removal might be necessary
- The stairlift no longer works
- Replacement parts are unavailable
- The lift is very old
- The rail is custom-built for the staircase
In these cases, removal is often the most practical option.
3. Scrapping or Disposing of a Stairlift
If a stairlift cannot be sold or reused, the final option is to scrap or recycle it.
Stairlifts contain materials such as:
- Aluminium rails
- Steel components
- Electrical parts
- Batteries
Many of these materials can be recycled, which helps reduce waste.
However, stairlifts are large pieces of equipment, so disposal should ideally be handled by professionals who can remove and recycle the components responsibly.
Can Stairlifts Be Reused?
Yes — many stairlifts can be reconditioned and installed in another home.
Straight stairlifts are particularly suitable for refurbishment because their rails are often standard sizes that can be reused.
Reconditioned stairlifts are popular because they offer a more affordable option for customers, while still providing reliable mobility support.
Should You Sell or Remove a Stairlift?
The best option depends on several factors:
Sell the stairlift if:
- It is in good working condition
- It is from a well-known manufacturer
- It is not too old
Remove the stairlift if:
- It no longer works
- It is obsolete
- You are renovating or selling the property
If you’re unsure which option is best, a stairlift specialist can usually assess the lift and advise you.
Looking to Sell Your Stairlift?
Depending on the make, model and condition of your stairlift, UK Stairlifts may be able to purchase it.
Our team can advise whether the stairlift can be reused, refurbished, or removed.
📞 Call us on 0800 046 3438
or contact us via our online form.
You can also visit our YouTube channel and see some of our stairlift removals.
We’ll be happy to discuss your options and help you find the most suitable solution for your stairlift.