New, reconditioned or rental?
There isn't one right answer for every home. Here's what matters with each choice.
Buying a new stairlift
New lifts offer a fresh unit and a supplier warranty. The biggest price difference comes from whether your staircase is straight or curved.
Which? 2026 guide ranges, with installation.
Explore new prices →
Buying reconditioned
A refurbished stairlift may cost less than buying new, especially where the stair rail is straight and standard.
- Ask exactly what has been replaced and tested.
- Get warranty duration in writing.
- Check whether removal and aftercare are included.
- For curved stairs, a bespoke rail may still be required.
What about the price?
Reconditioned straight models are often advertised from around £1,000. Prices and coverage vary widely, so the calculator gives a broad illustrative range rather than pretending to offer an exact fitted price.
Renting a straight stairlift
£600
Indicative installation fee
£80
Indicative rental
Market guide from Multicare Mobility, 2026 ↗. Some suppliers include initial months in an upfront package; do not add fees twice.
Renting a stairlift
Renting can make sense for recovery from an injury or another shorter-term need. But the monthly payments can add up.
- Ask about minimum rental periods.
- Check the full installation and removal charges.
- Make sure servicing and emergency callouts are included.
- Compare total cost over 6, 12 and 24 months.