SECOND HAND STAIRLIFTS | March 2024 - The Ultimate Guide
Second hand stairlifts

March 2024

Second Hand Stairlifts In March 2024

Is it possible to buy stairlifts second hand?

You can purchase a variety of stairlift models and brands second-hand. You might have reservations when buying such an important and expensive piece of equipment second-hand. Some worry that second-hand stairlifts might be defective and potentially unsafe. Others worry that the stairlift will not fit their home.

But if you do it the right way, buying second hand chair lifts can potentially save you thousands without compromising safety and comfort.

Topics that you will find covered on this page

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

What are reconditioned stairlifts?

Reconditioned stair lifts are second hand models that have been returned to the company that manufactured them. There are also some small firms that purchase and refurbish used staircases.

The seller replaces any faulty components and makes sure the product is in good working order. Manufacturers also employ experts and trained engineers to ensure the used stairlift meets a minimum safety standard.

Having taken care to make sure the used stairlift has no issues or problems, companies sell it to a new buyer. Often reconditioned 2nd hand stairlifts come with a labour warranty or servicing guarantee. This means you can have full peace of mind that reconditioned stairlifts are as safe and comfortable to use as new models.

What is the difference between reconditioned and second hand stairlifts?

Reconditioned stairlifts have been restored to good working order by stairlift companies. Second hand stairlifts for sale on platforms such as eBay and Gumtree have not been checked by professional stairlift companies.

As a consequence they can present a safety risk to you and your family, and you cannot be sure that the stairlift will fit your staircase adequately. Plus, if the used stairlift is defective or damaged in any way, it may be difficult or impossible to get your money back.

Even if the seller is honourable, they may not know the full details of the product’s service history. This means it may have something wrong with it that they do not know about, and which you will end up having to pay for.

You could then be saddled with big bills for repairing the stairlift. Replacement parts in particular can be very expensive. You may ultimately have to pay for stairlift removal if replacement parts cannot be found. So while used stair lifts for sale on eBay and Gumtree may look cheap, there are hidden costs.

As a consequence, it is recommended that you stick to reconditioned stairlifts if you intend to buy a used stairlift. It is never a good idea to compromise safety just to save a few pounds in the short term, and buying a defective product is more expensive in the long run anyway.

Here is a useful video explaining more about stairlifts.

How much does it cost to buy a reconditioned stairlift?

One of the upsides of buying a reconditioned stairlift, as opposed to a new one, is the comparatively low price. Reconditioned and second hand stairlifts prices are typically much lower than new models.

The average price of a reconditioned stairlift (across all different types) is two thousand pounds. According to Stannah Stairlifts, the average price of a new model is three thousand pounds. So across the board, reconditioned stairlifts tend to be much cheaper than new models.

You can expect to pay as little as nine hundred pounds for a reconditioned straight stairlift. It is not unusual for a new straight stairlift to cost twice this amount or more, so buying a reconditioned model represents a significant saving.

Though reconditioned curved stairlifts cost significantly more- in the region of three thousand pounds- this reflects the similarly high price of new models. Curved stairlifts are suitable for curved staircases. Sometimes curved models keep the chair out of the way to avoid inconveniencing a family member.

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

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

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A new curved stairlift can easily cost four or five thousand pounds, so buying a reconditioned model could save you up to £2,000.

So whichever model you are buying, reconditioned stairlifts tend to be as much as fifty percent cheaper than new models. If you can find a suitable model, a reconditioned stairlift has all of the benefits of a new product but at a lower cost.

What brands of stairlifts can I buy second-hand?

Many of the most well-known and reputable UK stairlift brands are available second-hand, often directly from the manufacturer. For example, Stannah sells reconditioned second-hand stairlifts, and many small firms buy and recondition other brands. You can visit their web-site or request a free brochure guide to review their available products.

Other well-known brands such as Thyssenkrupp and Handicare may also be available from independent firms that recondition used stairlifts themselves. You should always ensure such firms are reputable before handing over your money, and make sure all necessary safety procedures have been carried out.

2nd hand stairlifts

Similarly, Acorn Stairlifts does not conduct in-house refurbishing, but small independent firms such as A1 Stairlifts and Central Mobility sell reconditioned Acorn products.

Checking the terms and conditions before making your purchase is a crucial step. Companies offer warranties of varying durations, and if the warranty period is too short you might be better off seeking alternative options. When it comes to warranties on your used stairlift, longer is usually better.

What types of stairlifts can I buy second hand?

You can buy both straight and curved second-hand stair lifts, but it is much easier to find straight models. This is because straight stairlifts are relatively versatile: a single stairlift can be safely fitted to multiple homes. It can be harder to find a curved stairlift second hand as they are often custom-made to fit a particular staircase.

There are other stairlift features available. You can get stairlifts powered by batteries if there are no accessible plug sockets, as well as joystick controls and other special features. You can also get a fold-away seat, meaning a family member can pass by easily.  

"You can buy both straight and curved second-hand stair lifts, but it is much easier to find straight models. This is because straight stairlifts are relatively versatile: a single stairlift can be safely fitted to multiple homes."

Will a reconditioned stairlift fit my staircase?

The answer to this question depends on whether you buy a reconditioned or used stairlift. If you buy a reconditioned or second-hand stairlift from a reputable company, they will often send out a surveyor to ensure the mobility equipment fits your home. The company surveyor will ensure the suitability of any stair lift they sell you. 

Often straight used stairlifts will have to be modified to fit your home. This is because the rails are cut to fit the walls and landing of each home. You are unlikely to find a used stairlift with the perfect length of rail to fit your home. But if the rail is too long, there is the option of cutting it down to fit.

You might be unable to find a stairlift that is appropriate for your property. Or there may be a type of used stairlift that meets your needs, but it is outside your budget. This is often the case for buyers with unusual staircases.

For example, if your house has a spiral staircase you may be unable to find a stairlift with the right features. Maybe you can find a unique stair lift that will fit your stairs but it is a rare expensive model.

In these cases it might work out cheaper buying a new custom-model. You can usually contact a business directly for a price quote if you provide them with information on your stairs.

Will a second-hand stairlift from an individual seller fit my staircase?

It can be different if you buy a used stairlift from a private seller on a platform such as eBay or Gumtree. It takes a lot of specialised expertise to know whether a stairlift will fit a given staircase safely.

Plus, people on these platforms just want to complete the sale and have little incentive to ensure the used stairlift is right for you. Even a well-intentioned person cannot know everything that an experienced surveyor would, and they might give you the wrong advice. The point of the surveyor’s visit is to spot issues that only a professional would notice.

The possibility of being saddled with a stair lift that doesn’t fit your stairs is another reason why it is a good idea to steer clear of individual sellers.

Can I install a second-hand stairlift myself?

It is not recommended that you attempt to install a second-hand stairlift yourself. Stairlift installation is a complex and technical process, often involving far-reaching modifications to your home. An on-location team including a surveyor and engineer is needed to carry this out safely.

For example, it may be unsafe to access the stairlift unless a banister or skirting board is removed. It may also be necessary to install new electrical fittings or re-route a water pipe. The width of your staircase may be problematic. The frequency of these issues depends on a number of factors including the nature and age of your house.

It is also important that the stairlift itself is fitted by a professional. A stairlift is a sophisticated piece of mobility equipment, and you may damage the stairlift or put yourself at risk by fitting it incorrectly. What’s more, if you damage the product by fitting it wrong, you will struggle to get it off your hands.

For all of these reasons, it is not advised that you fit a stairlift yourself. (Unless you happen to be a trained engineer, that is).

Can I sell a stairlift that I no longer need?

Many find themselves in possession of a used stairlift that they no longer need. This often happens when an elderly relative passes away, or when someone recovers from an operation or an illness that necessitated their using a stairlift.

cheap stairlifts

You may be able to sell a used stairlift back to the manufacturer. This is less likely to be possible if you bought the stairlift a long time ago or if it is in a poor state of repair. But if the stairlift is in relatively good condition and the company you bought it from is still operational, you may be able to sell it back. Some companies such as Central Mobility will take older stairlifts, but if they are older than five years old a fee will be applied for stairlift removal.

Stannah does buy back second-hand stairlifts, but they typically pay very little. You can expect to get back only five to ten percent of the original purchase price. Acorn Stairlifts does not buy back used stairlifts, but they do offer support for you to sell it on to somebody else, or to another company.

In this case your used stairlift will be reconditioned and sold on. While you will be paid significantly less than the original purchase price, this can be a handy way of arranging stairlift removal, as well as getting some of your money back.

What are the advantages of buying second hand stairlifts?

  • Buying second-hand is one of the best ways to find good deals on cheap stairlifts. Since a second-hand model can easily be a thousand pounds cheaper than a new one, you could end up saving a lot of cash by looking at used stairlifts.
  • If you buy a reconditioned second-hand stairlifts, you can be confident that it will be high-quality and you will have a good customer experience.
  • Many companies selling reconditioned second-hand stairlifts will offer you a parts and labour warranty. This means you will not have to worry about worn-out parts requiring expensive service.
  • Buying a second-hand stairlift rather than a new one is better from an environmental perspective, as stairlifts are carbon-intensive to produce.

What are the disadvantages of buying used stairlifts?

  • There is less choice when buying used stairlifts as opposed to new ones. This is because there is a smaller range of options on the market. Plus used stairlifts tend to lack the cutting-edge features of some newer models.
  • You might have to spend a lot of time shopping around to find one that fits your home.
  • If you only expect to need your stairlift for a limited time, buying a second-hand stairlift is not the best thought. You will struggle to sell it on as it may be too old to refurbish by then. Although selling on a used stairlift does not get you much money, it means you can forego paying for stairlift removal.

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 useful articles about 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

Is it possible to buy stairlifts second hand?

You can purchase a variety of stairlift models and brands second-hand. You might have reservations when buying such an important and expensive piece of equipment second-hand. Some worry that second-hand stairlifts might be defective and potentially unsafe. Others worry that the stairlift will not fit their home.But if you do it the right way, buying second hand chair lifts can potentially save you thousands without compromising safety and comfort.

What are reconditioned stairlifts?

Reconditioned stair lifts are second hand models that have been returned to the company that manufactured them. There are also some small firms that purchase and refurbish used staircases.

How much does it cost to buy a reconditioned stairlift?

One of the upsides of buying a reconditioned stairlift, as opposed to a new one, is the comparatively low price. Reconditioned and second hand stairlifts prices are typically much lower than new models.

Can I sell a stairlift that I no longer need?

Many find themselves in possession of a used stairlift that they no longer need. This often happens when an elderly relative passes away, or when someone recovers from an operation or an illness that necessitated their using a stairlift.

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