RECONDITIONED STAIRLIFTS | March 2024  - A Buyers Guide
Reconditioned Stairlifts

March 2024

Reconditioned Stairlifts in March 2024

Reconditioned stairlifts are a popular product, since buying stairlifts brand new can be very expensive. 

However, many customers are often wary about reconditioned products. In the article below, we answer all your questions on reconditioned stairlifts.

Topics that you will find covered on this page

You can listen to an audio recording of this page below.

What is a reconditioned stairlift?

A reconditioned stairlift is a used or second-hand stairlift. In 2020, the average straight chairlift cost, on average, £1850. Whilst prices vary, reconditioned stairlifts are therefore normally a cheaper option than brand new products.  

What are the benefits of a reconditioned stairlift?

Stairlifts can be a great help in the home, and for many are an essential piece of mobility equipment. However, these mobility aids can be expensive. 

Price options of brand new stair lifts are somewhat limited, because you cannot change the layout of your home. Whilst you have a choice of the make and model, often the length and shape of your staircase determines your needs and limits your price options.

Reconditioned and refurbished stairlifts can help users that are struggling with payment. Even if you require a more expensive stairlift due to the nature of your home, a refurbished stair lift will offer a cheaper option. 

Furthermore, second hand stairlifts are often still in perfect working order, as they experience little wear and tear. They are also reconditioned to be like-new. 

Simply purchase your second hand stairlift from a reliable company for quality assurance. If you are worried about your seller’s professionalism, seek expert advice before buying, to check that your product has been reconditioned to a sufficient standard. 

Here is a video about reconditioned stairlifts.

What is the average cost of a stair lift in the UK?

Stairlift prices depend on the type required and the length of your stairs. According to Which, the average price of a new stairlift in 2020 was £3284. However, a straight stairlift will normally be cheaper.

If you require a curved stairlift, or additional safety features, you could end up paying up to £7000. Then, there are the stairlift installation costs to bear in mind. 

For this reason, those on a budget should consider used stairlifts. Reconditioned stairlift prices are generally lower. This is particularly useful for people that need a more expensive stairlift, for example those with a long or curved staircase. 

How much does a reconditioned stair lift cost?

Typically reconditioned stairlifts prices are a fair bit lower. The average cost is thought to be around £2800, but again will depend on a range of things. 

Like with a brand new stairlift, prices depend on whether it is a straight stairlift or curved stairlift. But, when it comes to used stairlifts, the age and condition will impact price too.

Why are curved stairlifts more expensive?

Curved stairlifts have to be specially made to fit the unique shape of the staircase in your home. The more curves needed in the stairlift rollers, the more manufacturers will charge. 

A straight stairlift has tracks that are readymade, and therefore are cheaper to produce and install. 

If you need to make a saving, both straight and curved stairlifts can be bought second hand. Reconditioned curved stairlifts might be harder to come by, though, as they are made specifically for the fit of your home. 

Can I get financial support to help cover the cost of a stairlift?

If a stairlift is an essential service, you may well be eligible for financial support. Local British councils offer ‘Disabled Facilities Grants’, which are means tested.These grants typically cover no more than half of the cost, and do not affect your entitlement to other benefits.

The council’s decision depends on their assessment of your need. Therefore, before you can apply for a grant for your stairlift, you might have to have a home visit. 

Why choose the world's most innovative stairlifts from Acorn?

Fits quickly and easily to the stairs, not the wall
Requires no structural changes to your home
Affordable and reliable with low running costs
Slimline and folds away conveniently when not in use
Optional hinged rail designed to eliminate any trip or hazard

Read below what Acorn's clients have to say about them

More reasons why Acorn are a good option

Stairlifts made in the UK
Same day home appointments available
Next day installation available
Amazing feedback and testimonials
Market leading experience in the UK

Call now on 0333 567 1603 to get a quote or to discuss your stairlift requirements.

Or

Book a callback, in the calendar below, for a time that suits you.

Will I pay VAT on my stairlift?

There are two types of VAT exemption that you may be eligible for when buying stairlifts. This helps to make both brand new and second hand stairlifts more affordable. 

Stairlifts for people with disabilities, as with other mobility products, are VAT-free. This saves you 20% on stairlifts and the cost of installation. If you aren’t eligible for complete VAT exemption, but are over 60, the VAT you pay on stairlifts will be reduced to 5%. 

Be sure to let the company you buy your stairlifts from that you are eligible for VAT exemption. You will need to sign a declaration form, so cannot simply do this over the phone. 

How do I install the stairlift?

Reconditioned stairlifts, like those bought brand new, should be installed by a professional. This is because there are a range of things that might go wrong if you try to install reconditioned stairlifts yourself. 

"Curved stairlifts have to be specially made to fit the unique shape of the staircase in your home. The more curves needed in the stairlift rollers, the more manufacturers will charge. "

Should I buy a reconditioned stairlift?

Often, people are wary about buying a secondhand stairlift. This is because they are concerned about the standard and reliability of a used stairlift. 

However, secondhand stairlifts are a good idea for those that want to save some money. Often, there is little difference in the quality compared to a brand new stairlift. 

Even though a second hand stairlift is made of used parts, it will likely be in good working order. This is because the stairlifts are reconditioned before their sale. Any problems will undergo repair and the parts undergo servicing, by qualified stairlift engineers. 

If you only need a stairlift in your home temporarily, consider renting a second hand stairlift instead. 

Can I rent a stairlift?

Stairlift rental is an alternative option for those that have problems affording a brand new stairlift upfront. This option is best if you only need to use stairlifts in your home temporarily, for example whilst recovering from an operation. 

There are a range of companies that offer stairlift rental. Second hand stairlifts are also available for rental. Reconditioned stairlift prices are cheaper for rental, too, and still work to the same standards. 

How much will stairlift rental cost?

Rental normally involves an initial installation fee, to cover the costs of the engineer. Then, you will need to pay a monthly fee- these fees can range greatly in price. 

Depending on your needs, rental of stairlifts can range from £40 to £160 a month. Normally the minimum contract length is 3 months. The contract length is just one piece of information you will need to discuss with the rental company, in order to get a stairlift rental quote. 

Finally, be sure to ask someone about potential removal costs. If rental of a brand new stairlift is too pricey, consider renting secondhand models. One company that offers this is Stannah. 

Can I rent a reconditioned stairlift?

A number of companies offer rental for second hand stair lifts. This is a cheaper option for those that only need a stairlift in their home temporarily, for example for someone recovering from an operation. 

How much is stairlift insurance?

Stairlift insurance shouldn’t be necessary if your reconditioned stairlift is within warranty. This is because even reconditioned stairlifts have their parts covered under warranty. 

However, the length of warranties for reconditioned stairlifts will range from supplier to supplier. This is when customers decide to insure their second hand stair lifts. 

Second hand stairlifts that are out of warranty can be covered in one of two ways. The first is by purchase of an extended warranty for your reconditioned stairlift. The second is by taking out mobility equipment insurance from a third party supplier, which covers second hand stairlifts. 

If you are worried about faulty parts on reconditioned stairlifts that are out of warranty, the above ideas are a good solution. 

Can I sell my used stairlift? 

If you find that you no longer need to use stairlifts, it is possible to sell it on. However, the value of used stairlifts is pretty low. Second hand stairlifts generally sell for a few hundred pounds. 

A straight stairlift is much easier to sell on than a curved stairlift, since it is a generic model. You are also more likely to be able to sell your stairlift if it is newer and in good working order. 

You can get a quick and easy valuation for both straight and curved second hand stairlifts on this site .Even if you cannot find buyers second hand stairlifts, there are companies that simply remove stairlifts from properties that no longer need them. 

Who buys a used stairlift? 

Used stairlifts are bought by a range of companies. Second hand stairlifts can also be sold privately to a buyer, though this can be a more complicated process. 

What does it cost to run a stairlift?

Running costs of stairlifts are minimal. Many stairlifts are battery operated, with batteries that charge automatically as the stairlifts are used. Therefore, there is a very small electricity cost. 

Used stairlifts might also require maintenance on their parts. However, whilst second hand stairlifts are still in warranty, such costs should be covered. 

How do I choose a stairlift? 

There are a number of different popular brands that sell both new and reconditioned stairlifts. The most popular private brands for stairlifts are Stannah, Acorn, Brooks, and Handicare (previously Minivator). Stannah stairlifts generally come out on the more expensive side. 

Before buying stairlifts you might wish to see them in person. If there are companies with showrooms in nearby areas, we recommend taking a look around. It can also help to get the opinion of a family member. 

It can also be a good idea to test out different stairlifts, to see how you get on with the controls. You could ask to use a friend’s, or test out the performance of different stairlifts at local equipment demonstration centres. 

If there is a specific brand or type of stairlift you are after, we recommend calling ahead to ensure your local vendor has those stairlifts in stock. Some people also want a certain type of seat, so research this too.

s it safe to buy reconditioned stairlifts?

Often, people are worried about the quality of reconditioned stair lifts. However, even a used stairlift has to have its parts reconditioned before it is sold. Therefore, second hand stairlifts that have been reconditioned are safe to buy. 

One step you should be sure to take before buying is asking whether your vendor is a member of the British Healthcare Trades Association.

Members of the British Healthcare Trades Association are required to follow certain ethical rules that will protect you when buying and maintaining your stairlifts.

Furthermore, reconditioned stairlifts, like those sold new, must be CE-marked and follow British Standard BS5776. BS5776 is a specification for powered stairlifts, that ensures their parts meet the correct safety standards. 

Can I buy second hand stairlifts privately?

Whilst it is possible to buy second hand stairlifts from a private seller, it is always safer to go through a licensed company. Official companies that you can trust sell reconditioned stairlifts. 

If a second hand stairlift has been reconditioned it means it has been serviced, repaired, and sanitised. Cosmetic corrections will also be undertaken on reconditioned stairlifts. 

Therefore, reconditioned stairlifts are more reliable than those that have not been officially reconditioned. Even if someone says their product has been reconditioned, you should buy reconditioned stairlifts from reputable companies that you can trust. 

Have A Free Consultation With A Stairlift Specialist

You can contact an Acorn stair lift specialist in one of 3 ways:

  • Option 1 – Call directly on – 0333 567 1603
  • Option 2 – Book an appointment directly in the calendar below, and one of the team will call you back at your chosen time
  • Option 3 – Leave your contact details and Acorn will get in touch with you

Option 1 - Call Acorn Stairlifts Directly

 

Monday to Thursday : 8am – 7pm

Friday : 8am – 5:30pm

Saturday & Sunday : 9am – 5pm

Call us on : 0333 567 1603

Option 2 - Book an appointment, in the calendar below, for a callback when it's convenient

Option 3 - Leave your details and Acorn will get in touch

Leave your contact details below, and one of the Acorn team will give you a call to discuss your needs.

                                                      Please note that Acorn Stairlifts undertake all calls.

Article author

Katy Davies

I am a keen reader and writer and have been helping to write and produce the legal content for the site since the launch.   I studied for a law degree at Manchester University and I use that theoretical experience, as well as my practical experience as a solicitor, to help produce legal content which I hope you find helpful.

Outside of work, I love the snow and am a keen snowboarder.  Most winters you will see me trying to get away for long weekends to the slopes in Switzerland or France.

Email – [email protected]

More information on stairlifts

A Guide To Stairlifts

This article explains all you need to know about buying or renting a stairlift in the UK alongside information on where to find one.

Curved Stairlifts

Not all stairs are straight, so you may need a curved stairlift to go around a landing,  This article explains how you get a curved stairlift.

Stairlift Rental

Renting a stairlift is a popular alternative to purchasing a new stair lift.  This article explains how the rental process works.

Second Hand Stairlifts

Buying a second hand stairlift is much cheaper than buying a new one, especially if you nay not need it for long.  

Reconditioned Stairlifts

A reconditioned stairlift allows you to get an almost new stairlift for a much lower price than a new one.  This article explains how.

Stairlifts For Narrow Stairs

Thos will narrow stairs will need a specialist chair.  However, there are lifts that could work.  Our article explains what you need to know.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a reconditioned stairlift?

A reconditioned stairlift is a used or second-hand stairlift. In 2020, the average straight chairlift cost, on average, £1850. Whilst prices vary, reconditioned stairlifts are therefore normally a cheaper option than brand new products. 

Can I get financial support to help cover the cost of a stairlift?

If a stairlift is an essential service, you may well be eligible for financial support. Local British councils offer ‘Disabled Facilities Grants’, which are means tested.These grants typically cover no more than half of the cost, and do not affect your entitlement to other benefits. The council’s decision depends on their assessment of your need. Therefore, before you can apply for a grant for your stairlift, you might have to have a home visit. 

How do I install the stairlift?

Reconditioned stairlifts, like those bought brand new, should be installed by a professional. This is because there are a range of things that might go wrong if you try to install reconditioned stairlifts yourself. 

Can I rent a reconditioned stairlift?

A number of companies offer rental for second hand stair lifts. This is a cheaper option for those that only need a stairlift in their home temporarily, for example for someone recovering from an operation. 

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Are you looking for a Reconditioned Stairlift? Call us for a free consultation.

Call now on 0333 567 1603

Would you like some help choosing a stair lift or just want to learn more about your options? If so, call now, leave your details for a call back or book a free consultation.

Call us now

0333 567 1603

All calls are undertaken by Acorn Stairlifts, one of the UK's leading stairlift specialists

Book a free consultation

Leave us your details

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Get free help choosing a Stair Lift

Are you looking for a Reconditioned Stairlift? Call us for a free consultation.

Call now on 0333 567 1603

Would you like some help choosing a stair lift or just want to learn more about your options? If so, call now, leave your details for a call back or book a free consultation.

Call us now

0333 567 1603

All calls are undertaken by Acorn Stairlifts, one of the UK's leading stairlift specialists

Book a free consultation

Leave us your details

1

3

2

Get free help choosing a Stair Lift