Stair lifts help people who live with a mobility challenge or chronic illness stay in their homes safely and independently. A wide variety of styles and prices make stair lifts accessible to all budgets. Many insurance companies, including Medicare Advantage plans and VA health care benefits, cover part or all of the cost of a stair lift. Homeowners can also save money by purchasing used stair lifts. To get the best deal on a stairlift installation, ask the right questions to local experts.
The average price of a new stair lift is about $5,000, but the costs can vary widely depending on the type and custom features of the lift. For example, curved stair lifts are often more expensive than standard straight models because they have to be custom-designed to fit the stairway’s curves or turns.
Some manufacturers offer a free in-home consultation stairlift installers near me and a quote before the customer buys. These professionals take measurements and pictures of the staircase, analyzing whether the lift will work in the space. Then the professional walks the customer through their options, including different styles and power sources. They may also recommend modifications to the staircase or home to accommodate the lift.
If a homeowner decides to purchase a lift, the professional will discuss financing options and other details with them. Many dealers accept credit cards and offer flexible terms. In addition, many companies will offer a yearly maintenance inspection for $100 to $200. Some manufacturers, such as Acorn, provide a lifetime warranty on the gear racks and other parts.
Typically, installers are trained by the manufacturer or dealer that sells the lift. They can install a straight lift in about 2 to 3 hours, while a curved lift takes 4 to 5 hours or more to complete. Labor costs are included in the stair lift price, and most dealers and manufacturers charge about $75 to $100 per hour.
A stair lift can be plugged into an electrical outlet or run off a battery, depending on the model. If the lift is to be plugged into an existing outlet, homeowners should hire a qualified electrician to ensure that the outlet can handle the load of a stair lift. Homeowners should also check with a local contractor to see whether the stair lift requires any modification to the staircase or home.
For instance, if the stairlift must be installed on an existing staircase that has no outlets nearby, homeowners will have to pay to install additional outlets or rebuild a wall. Homeowners should always let a trusted, professional home renovation contractor oversee these types of projects. Stair lifts can be complicated pieces of assistive technology, and DIY installations can pose serious safety risks. A stair lift is an investment that will allow you to remain in your home safely and comfortably for years to come. For this reason, it’s essential to find a qualified, experienced, and licensed installer. Asking the right questions to local experts can help homeowners avoid miscommunication, save money, and minimize the risk of mistakes that could result in a costly repair bill or worsened mobility limitations.