When a stairlift becomes necessary, the first question most families ask is: how much will this cost? A brand new stairlift from a major manufacturer typically costs £1,500–£3,000 for a straight model and £4,000–£10,000+ for a curved stairlift. That's before servicing, batteries, and call-out costs.
A reconditioned stairlift — a professionally refurbished second-hand unit — can cost as little as £195 for a straight model including installation. But is it a false economy, or genuine value? This guide gives you the honest answer.
The Cost Difference
Let's start with the numbers most people care about most:
- New straight stairlift: £1,500–£3,000 (supply and installation)
- New curved stairlift: £4,000–£10,000+
- Reconditioned straight stairlift: £195–£500 (supply and installation)
- Reconditioned curved stairlift: Not typically available — curved rails are bespoke to each staircase
On a straight stairlift, the saving from buying reconditioned is typically £1,000–£2,500. That's significant for most households.
Quality and Reliability
This is where many people hesitate — and understandably so. The key question is whether a reconditioned stairlift is as reliable as a new one.
The honest answer: it depends entirely on who refurbishes it.
A reconditioned stairlift bought from a reputable specialist — one that strips the unit down, replaces worn components (batteries, drive belt, upholstery), and tests it thoroughly before sale — should be as reliable as a new unit for everyday domestic use. The mechanical heart of a stairlift is simple: a motor, a rail, and a drive mechanism. These components last a long time if maintained.
A reconditioned stairlift bought from an unknown private seller with no service history, on the other hand, carries obvious risks.
When buying from us, every unit is serviced by our own engineers before sale. We replace batteries and any parts showing wear, and we only sell units we are confident in.
Warranty Comparison
- New stairlift: Typically 12 months parts and labour, extendable via annual service plan
- Our reconditioned stairlifts: 6-month parts warranty, annual service plan available
The warranty on a reconditioned stairlift is shorter than new, which is expected at a fraction of the price. The 6-month window covers the period in which any issues are most likely to surface.
What You Get With New That You Don't With Reconditioned
To be fair and balanced, here is what new stairlifts offer that reconditioned ones cannot always match:
- Latest features: Newer models may have powered footrests, foldable rails, and more refined controls
- Longer warranty: Typically 12–24 months versus 6 months
- Curved models: A curved stairlift must be custom-made to fit your staircase — there is no reconditioned equivalent
- Manufacturer support: Ongoing manufacturer parts supply is more predictable for new models
When Reconditioned Makes Sense
A reconditioned stairlift is the right choice when:
- You have a straight staircase
- Budget is a primary concern
- You need a stairlift quickly (no waiting for a DFG application to be processed)
- You are buying for a relative who uses it occasionally rather than daily
- You want to try a stairlift before committing to a new unit
When New is Worth the Extra Cost
A new stairlift makes sense when:
- You have a curved or unusual staircase (no reconditioned option exists)
- It will be used heavily every day by a heavier user
- You want the latest features and longest warranty
- You are eligible for a Disabled Facilities Grant that covers most of the cost
Our Verdict
For a straight staircase, a reconditioned stairlift from a reputable supplier is excellent value. The saving is substantial, the reliability is comparable to new when properly refurbished, and a 6-month warranty gives you a reasonable safety net. We've installed hundreds of reconditioned stairlifts across the UK and the majority continue operating reliably for years.
For curved staircases, you have no choice but to go new — curved rails cannot be reused on a different staircase.
View our current reconditioned stairlifts from £195 including installation →