Stairlift Installation Costs

A stairlift is a great mobility feature to add to any home for someone with limited mobility. These lifts are available in multiple sizes and designs and can be installed on most existing staircases with little demolition or remodeling required. The cost of a stairlift installation depends on a number of factors, including the type of lift or chair chosen and the nature of the stairs where the lift will be installed.

Some stairlifts are available with comfort or convenience features, which will increase the price for many models. The location of the lift and how customized your final product is will also impact how much this project costs.;

Stairlift installation: by chair type/style, including labor costs, optional features, and special considerations.

Other considerations and costs

• If you choose to add optional features, such as lift-up arm and footrests, tilting seats, speed control, or fold-up rails, you will pay a premium price for a higher-end model.
• Staircases over 14 steps will require additional rail length beyond what is “standard”, so additional costs will be incurred.
• If there is not an outlet available at the top or bottom of your stairs, you will need to have one installed. An electrician can usually do this in one to two hours and will charge an hourly rate for their work.
• Some installers will include a warranty with their installation. It is typically a one-year service warranty, but be sure to ask if they offer something.
• There are some situations where a stairlift will be a temporary fixture. In those instances, it may prove too expensive to permanently install one, not to mention unnecessary. You can rent a chairlift instead, which will cost you a fraction of installing your own. The temporary installation is also designed to fit into your existing staircase, so no demolition or reconstruction is needed.

Check out our guide if you need a loan for your home improvement project.

DIY considerations

• While there are products on the market that claim to offer DIY installation, something like a stairlift needs to be installed by a qualified professional. These are complex machines and require a skilled hand. Plus, when the unit is not installed correctly, someone’s safety is at risk.
• You may be able to find a better price on a stairlift by purchasing one separate from the company that installs it. This is not always the case, but it might save some money to shop around.

References

• Craftsman Estimator Costbook, complete series year 2019.
• Latest prices found on Home Depot and other vendor Web sites.
• Literature review of DIY Web sites.