Stair Lifts: costs, choices and hiring advice

What it costs

$2,300–$24,000

The shape of your staircase matters more than anything else. Straight stairs use a standard rail; curved stairs need a rail made to fit.

• One straight indoor staircase$2,000–$9,000
• Staircase with a landing or turn$10,350–$25,000
• Porch or deck steps$4,000–$25,000

Choices that change the price

• Battery or hardwiredBattery models charge from an outlet and keep working in a power outage.
• Folding railIf the rail would block a doorway at the bottom of the stairs, a folding or hinged rail solves it for extra cost.

Problems and hidden costs to watch for

• Outlet locationMost lifts need an outlet near the top or bottom of the stairs.
• Removal laterAsk whether the company will remove the lift later, what that costs, and whether they buy back used lifts.
• Insurance coverageOriginal Medicare generally does not cover stair lifts.

Upkeep and lifespan

• BatteriesBattery-powered lifts need new batteries every few years.
• Service planAsk what annual service costs and how fast the company responds if the lift stops working.

Hiring and comparing quotes

• Is the rail straight, or custom-made for my stairs?
• What is the weight limit, and does the seat swivel at the top?
• What does the warranty cover, and who services it locally?
• What will removal cost if I no longer need it?