Stairlifts

Will a stairlift fit my staircase?

We have a wide range of stairlifts from a variety of the most reputable manufacturers, to help us to provide the best solutions for the vast majority of staircases. One of our friendly surveyors will be able to confirm feasibility, costs, etc, following a free, no obligation survey.

What if my staircase is narrow?

We have a good selection of stairlifts that are well suited to narrow staircases, including the option for a downwards facing chair, to allow for sufficient clearance for knees and feet. Our surveyor will always measure the width of the staircase and the seated dimensions of the service user, to confirm feasibility, prior to an order being placed.

Will there be enough space for others to use the staircase?

Yes, this will be accounted for in the design of the stairlift. The stairlift rail and chair (when folded up) are relatively compact, and we would ensure that the chair can park in an optimum position, for others to pass safely and easily.

Are stairlifts easy to use?

Yes, the stairlifts in our range have easy-to-operate seat belts, ergonomically designed chair controls, and powered options, to make operating the stairlift as easy as possible, for a wide variety of users. Our experienced surveyors always take the service user’s needs and abilities into account, when recommending the specification for a stairlift. Full operating instructions will be demonstrated to the service user, at time of installation, and an instruction booklet will also be left for reference. If in any doubt, just give us a call and we’d be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.

Can the stairlift be locked?

Yes, all our stairlifts either have a key lock as standard, or can be provided with one as an option, where required. Once locked, the chair cannot be operated by anyone not authorised to use it.

Is a stairlift fixed to the wall?

No, all our stairlifts are fixed directly onto the staircase.

How long does it take to install a stairlift?

Straight track stairlifts generally take 3-5 hours, and curved track stairlifts generally take 4-6 hours, depending on the scale and specification of the stairlift.

What if I want to replace the staircase carpet?

If you’re planning on replacing the staircase carpet in the near future, we would strongly recommend that this is done prior to installation of the stairlift. It is however possible to replace the carpet with a stairlift in situ, but this can be awkward to do and would leave holes in the carpet, in the event of the stairlift being removed. Alternatively, we can remove and reinstall the stairlift, to allow for carpet replacement, but there would be a cost for this, subject to the size and type of the stairlift.

Why should I choose Ascendit Lifts?

Established in 1998, we have an extensive track record of being a local authority approved contractor throughout the whole of the South-East of England. We only use top quality products from the most reputable manufacturers in the industry. We offer a friendly, professional service from start to finish, where the customers’ needs are always put first.

How is the stairlift powered and is it expensive to run?

All stairlifts are battery operated, meaning they will continue to run for approximately 8-10 journeys (subject to the length of travel), in the event of a power cut. The average stairlift is relatively inexpensive to run, costing less than £25 per year (approximately 50p per week).

Does the stairlift need a power supply?

Yes, we can either plug the stairlift battery charger into an existing electrical socket, if there’s already one available in close proximity to the staircase. Alternatively, we can arrange for an electrician to provide a fused spur instead, if required.

Do I have to pay for a survey?

No, our survey visits are free of charge and with absolutely no obligation to buy. One of our friendly and knowledgeable surveyors will visit at an agreed time, to assess feasibility and answer any questions you may have. This will be followed by a quotation and any additional information required, to help you make your decision.

How much does a stairlift cost?

The cost of a stairlift is determined by a variety of factors, such as the layout of the staircase and the stairlift specification. We can offer new, reconditioned, or rental options, to cater for a range of budgets and circumstances. Our surveyor will advise the cost, following a free, no obligation survey. We can also provide an approximate guide price over the phone, once we know a few more details.

Do I need to pay VAT?

VAT is generally not applicable in most circumstances, for private customers in a domestic setting. We can provide further information for this on request, and we can also provide you with the VAT exemption form to be completed to apply for this.

Can I get help to fund my stairlift?

A Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is potentially available, following a referral from an Occupational Therapist. These grants are usually means tested, so the level of your financial contribution will be based on savings and income. If you are interested in exploring this option, further information can be found at https://www.gov.uk/disabled-facilities-grants . Alternatively, you can contact the Social Services Department at your Local Authority and ask for an Occupational Therapist to assess for provision of a stairlift. They will be able to talk you through the process of applying for DFG funding.

What about maintenance?

All our new stairlifts come with a 2 year warranty, and our reconditioned stairlifts come with 12 months. Once this initial warranty period has expired, there’s the option to extend the maintenance contract, which is fully comprehensive and covers servicing, parts and labour, and a 24/7 call out service. All maintenance for rental stairlifts is covered for the duration of the rental period.

What happens when I want my stairlift removed?

No problem, we can remove this for you on request. There is generally a small fee for this, subject to the age and size of the stairlift to be removed. We can provide you with a cost for this, at the time of your enquiry.