We have had prior customers ask us whether they can move a stairlift to another home, in order to save buying a new one. In some cases this can be done, but not all. The main issue with stairlift transfer between homes is staircases are often different. If a stairlift is the same from one home to another, this is much more doable. However, staircases are seldom the same, and some have more obstacles than others.
To get a quick idea of whether this is feasible, you’ll need to check the stairs. Here’s what to check:
- Staircase is the same – that is, curved or straight. Straight stairlifts have a single straight rail, whereas curved stairlifts have a bend and a customised rail.
- Staircase is the same length – this applies for a straight stairlift transfer. For curved transfers it is much more likely you will need a new, customised rail.
- Stairlift “hand” (left or right) – that is, which side of the staircase the stairlift runs on. Hand can be changed on certain models of stairlift but this requires some expertise.
Can You Move A Stairlift To Another Home – Stairlift Transfer
If you’re transferring a straight stairlift from one house to another, it is much more doable. But still, if the staircase is longer or shorter in your new home, this presents problems. The rail might overshoot the staircase, creating an overhang; or not even reach the top of the stairs.
Rails are measured carefully to create a perfect fit according to your stairs. So if there is a discrepancy in staircase length, you’ll potentially need a new rail cutting to size – or your own rail cutting down.
Stairlift Transfer Between Homes – Curved Stairlifts
If you have a curved stairlift and wish to transfer it to another home, it is much more difficult. Curved stairlifts have customised rails according to your staircase layout. So unless the new home has the exact same layout, with the curve in the same place and the same staircase length, this is unlikely to be a possibility. Stairlift rail bends are specifically made to the angle and pitch determined by the staircase turns and angles.
Most homes which require curved rails have different layouts, and would require a new rail which is custom made. This can be done, and potentially used with your existing stairlift – however a new customised rail and installation is a large part of a stairlift’s cost.
Stairlift Transfer – Is It Possible?
While transferring a stairlift from one home to another seems like a good idea to save some money, it is usually not practical and will generally require some expertise to implement. Before giving us a call, check your staircases on both properties. Here’s a quick recap of what to check:
- Both staircase must be the same in terms of straight or curved with the same dimensions.
- The hand of the stairlift is the same (is is placed to the left or right of the stairs).
- Straight staircases are much more doable, but must be the same length with no extra obstructions – for example doorways near the park point or top and bottom of the stairlift.
Even if your stairs match, a doorway can present a problem.
If you think you have a good match, or would like to talk to us about our reconditioned stairlifts, give us a call on 0800 046 3438. You can also see our article on how to save money on a stairlift here.
See also our YouTube channel for some of our installations and removals.