Here at Lifton, we have put together a helpful guide to the most frequently asked about questions about home lifts in one easy-to-read, easy-to-skim through, and easy-to-understand guide.

How much is the average price of a home lift?

The price of a home lift depends largely on the type of lift you are looking to have installed in your house so home lift prices massively vary from provider to provider, but the average cost is between £17,000 and £30,000. No home lift company will realistically be able to provide you with a price until they have carried out a full site survey on your property, so this is highly recommended.

What is the best home lift in the UK?

There are several different domestic lift solutions on the market and there is no definitive guide available which is unbiased which tells you which is the best home lift in the UK. Lifton was launched in 2016 by the Stiltz Group as a new and inspiring premium home lift brand.

Would I need planning permission to install a lift in my house?

For most domestic lifts, you should not require planning permission to install a home lift in your house as it is considered a ‘permitted development’, but it does depend on the type of lift. Your local planning authority will be able to advise you on whether planning permission is required. ‘Permitted Development’ grants you rights ‘to undertake certain types of work without the need to apply for planning permission’. However, you may need to check with your local authority if your house is listed, in a conversation area or subject to any other restrictions. The lift company will need to comply with building regulations.

Does a home lift add value to the home?

A home lift can add value to the home but there has been no definitive study detailing exactly how much. Some home lift websites have speculated and said homeowners could see the value of their house increase by up to 25 per cent.

How much does a stairlift cost?

A stairlift can cost anything from £400 for a used one online to up to £5,000 or more for a curved stairlift. The cost depends on the make, model, and style of the stairlift.

How long does a home lift last for?

A home lift should last for a minimum of 20 years if it is regularly maintained and can last for much longer. Modern home lifts have only been around for 10-15 years so there is no definitive number of years a lift will last for yet.

How do you choose a home lift?

The best way to choose a home lift is to search online and arrange a site visit with a home lift provider who should be able to offer you advice on the type of lift you need based on your requirements. This includes recommending a lift based on your size and budget, and whether a wheelchair lift or multi-floor use is required and more.

Where is the best place to install a lift in a house?

Many homeowners decide to install a home lift in the main living room downstairs with it travelling up to a main bedroom or landing area, but it depends on a wide number of factors related to your property. Non-hydraulic, shaftless lifts can be installed in the centre of a turning staircase or even a cupboard or larder.

What is an alternative to a stairlift?

Senior citizens or older people can choose to have a home lift installed as an alternative to a stairlift in their home.

What can seniors do instead of stairlifts?

Senior citizens or older people can choose to have a home lift as an alternative to a stairlift installed in their home.

What is the difference between a home lift and a home elevator?

There is no difference between a home lift and a home elevator. In the UK, we tend to call them home lifts, domestic lifts, through floor lifts or even wheelchair lifts. In the USA, however, people call them home elevators, residential elevators or in home elevators.

How safe are home lifts?

The Lifton Home Lift has safety sensors fitted above and below the lift car which detect obstructions and smoothly stops the car if required. The lift is also fitted with a full height light curtain which acts as a sensor and ensures nothing crosses into or out of the lift as it travels. 

Are home lifts noisy?

Modern home lifts are not noisy and considered quieter than many stairlifts according to many lift manufacturers.

What happens if you are in the home lift when the power goes out?

Home lifts by Lifton include a battery back-up facility so in the event of a power cut the lift will simply travel to the lower level of the lift for you to exit. It will not work again until power is restored.

How long does it take to install a home lift?

It usually takes around two to three days to install a lift in the home. However, this can massively vary depending on the make and model of the lift and how much building work is required.

Can I install my own home lift?

It is highly unlikely that you will be able to install your own lift in your home. Most, if not all, home lift providers will not allow you to install the lift yourself for health and safety reasons.