FAQs about stairlifts, lifts, ramps, servicing and warranty.
FAQs about stairlifts, lifts, ramps, servicing and warranty.
We’ve gathered our top FAQs and corresponding answers in one place to help you navigate through any questions you may have.
Hopefully, these will help you to make a decision. If you have any further questions please feel free to contact us.
Stairlifts
A stairlift specialist can carry out a home survey to assess whether your staircase is suitable. Key factors include:
- Staircase type – straight, curved, or spiral.
- Width of the stairs – slimline models are available for narrow staircases.
- Headroom clearance – ensuring safe entry and exit.
- Landing space – enough room at the top and bottom for safe transfer.
Most modern stairlifts can be adapted to fit a wide range of staircase designs.
Yes. Stairlifts are designed with multiple safety features to protect users. Standard features include:
- Seatbelt for security during travel.
- Swivel seat for safer entry and exit.
- Safety sensors to stop the lift if obstacles are detected.
- Speed regulators for smooth, controlled movement.
- Battery backup to ensure use during a power cut.
With proper installation and regular servicing, stairlifts are a safe and reliable mobility solution.
Yes. Stairlifts are designed to fold away when not in use. Most models feature:
- Foldable seat, armrests, and footplate to free up stair space.
- Slimline rails fitted close to the wall or stair tread.
This means other household members can continue using the staircase normally.
Yes. Curved stairlifts are custom-built to fit staircases with bends, corners, or spirals. The rail is designed specifically for the shape and dimensions of the staircase, ensuring smooth and safe travel.
Yes. EMS Lifts can safely remove and re-install stairlifts during home renovation or building projects. Professional removal is important to:
- Protect the rail and drive system from damage.
- Ensure correct reinstallation.
- Maintain warranty coverage.
Most removals and reinstalls can be completed within a few hours.
The cost of servicing varies depending on the stairlift model and the level of service required. EMS Lifts provides tailored quotes following an assessment.
Service plans may include:
- Annual servicing.
- Priority breakdown response.
- Parts and labour cover.
- 24/7 call-out support.
This offers predictable costs and peace of mind that your stairlift is kept in safe working order.
Important factors include:
- Staircase layout – straight or curved.
- Mobility needs – seated or standing models.
- Weight capacity – ensuring safe use.
- Seat design – size, upholstery, and comfort features.
- Additional features – powered swivel seat, folding footplate, or remote controls.
EMS Lifts provides free home surveys to assess needs and recommend suitable options.
A chair lift, also called a stairlift, is a motorised device that transports individuals up and down stairs while seated. It works by:
- Track installation – a rail is securely fixed to the stair treads.
- Chair mechanism – a motor moves the chair smoothly along the track.
- User control – operated via a switch on the armrest or remote control.
- Safety systems – seatbelt, swivel seat, and sensors ensure safe travel.
Chair lifts provide independence for individuals who find stairs difficult.
Yes. The terms “chair lift” and “stairlift” both describe the same device — a motorised chair that runs on a rail to help people with limited mobility move safely between floors.
The “best” stairlift company depends on personal needs, but EMS Lifts is a trusted UK provider known for:
- High-quality straight and curved stairlifts.
- Expert installation and aftercare.
- Clear pricing and transparent advice.
- Carbon-neutral, family-run operations.
Customer satisfaction, fast response times, and tailored solutions make EMS Lifts one of the UK’s leading stairlift companies.
Yes, you can get a stairlift for free. In some cases, you may be eligible for financial assistance through a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) provided by your local council.
- Eligibility: Based on need and sometimes means-tested.
- Coverage: May pay for part or all of a stairlift installation.
- Application: Involves a home assessment arranged through the local authority.
EMS Lifts can support customers in applying for grants and provide the necessary documentation.
- Straight stairlift: Typically 2–3 hours.
- Curved stairlift: Usually 4–6 hours due to custom rail design.
EMS Lifts also offers same-day installation on selected straight models, minimising disruption and providing fast access when needed.
Stairlift costs vary depending on type and features. Typical starting prices are:
- Straight stairlift: From around £2,000.
- Curved stairlift: From around £4,500.
Additional costs may apply for custom rails, powered options, or extended warranties. EMS Lifts provides free home assessments and tailored quotes to give an accurate cost based on your property and needs.
Ramps
Yes. Ramps can be customised to suit different property layouts. Options include:
- Length and incline adjusted to match the number of steps or threshold height.
- Width tailored for wheelchairs, mobility scooters, or walkers.
- Materials such as aluminium, steel, or concrete depending on durability and aesthetics.
- Safety features like non-slip surfaces, handrails, and raised edges.
Customisation ensures the ramp blends with the property while providing safe access.
Most ramps are straightforward to install, with the process depending on the ramp type:
| Ramp Type | Installation Time | Notes |
| Portable ramp | Minutes | No building work required, suitable for temporary use |
| Modular ramp | Hours | Prefabricated sections assembled on site |
| Permanent ramp | Several days | Built from concrete or timber, requires construction work |
Modular and portable ramps can often be installed without major alterations, making them ideal for quick accessibility improvements.
A ramp provides an alternative to stairs, helping people with mobility challenges move between levels safely and independently.
Key purposes include:
- Accessibility for wheelchair and scooter users.
- Safety by reducing the risk of trips or falls.
- Independence for people with reduced mobility.
Compliance with accessibility standards in public spaces.
Yes. Ramps must meet accessibility regulations and building codes to ensure safe use. Standards usually cover:
- Gradient/slope: Maximum slope of 1:12 for wheelchair use (1 inch rise per 12 inches length).
- Width: Minimum of 900mm for residential ramps; often wider for commercial/public use.
- Landings: Level platforms at the top, bottom, and at intervals on long ramps.
- Handrails: Required on both sides for certain gradients and lengths.
- Surface texture: Non-slip materials to improve safety in all weather.
Exact requirements may vary depending on the country and whether the ramp is residential or commercial.
Yes, ramps can be installed in both indoor and outdoor environments. They can be customised and designed to accommodate different architectural structures and varying weather conditions.
Installing a ramp offers several advantages:
- Improved accessibility for people using wheelchairs, scooters, or walkers.
- Convenience for parents with pushchairs, delivery staff, or anyone carrying loads.
- Increased safety compared to steps, particularly in wet or icy conditions.
- Independence for individuals with limited mobility.
Regulatory compliance in public or commercial buildings.
Yes. Ramps can be designed to fit unique building layouts. Custom options include:
- Different inclines and lengths for varied rises.
- Wider ramps for mobility scooters or two-way use.
- Turning platforms and landings for longer or multi-directional ramps.
- Handrails and kerbs for added safety.
Weather-resistant surfaces for outdoor use.
The cost of a ramp depends on its size, type, and installation requirements.
- Portable ramps: From a few hundred pounds.
- Modular ramps: Priced according to length, width, and features.
- Permanent ramps: Higher cost due to building work and materials.
EMS Lifts provides tailored quotes after assessing the property to recommend the most suitable solution.
Yes. EMS Lifts can provide a detailed quote for a wheelchair-accessible ramp. Factors that affect cost include:
- The height that needs to be overcome.
- The length and configuration of the ramp.
- Chosen materials and any additional features, such as handrails.
A site survey is often required to confirm the exact requirements.
Yes. Ramps can be installed in commercial spaces such as schools, healthcare facilities, offices, and retail environments.
Important considerations for commercial ramps include:
- Legal compliance with accessibility regulations (e.g., the Equality Act 2010 in the UK).
- Durability to withstand high levels of use.
- Width and gradient suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
- Safety features such as handrails, kerbs, and slip-resistant surfaces.
Properly designed ramps ensure that commercial spaces are inclusive and accessible.
When space is restricted, alternatives to full-length ramps may include:
- Telescopic ramps: Extendable and retractable for flexible use.
- Folding ramps: Can be folded and stored when not in use.
- Compact modular ramps: Designed to fit tight spaces with shorter runs and small landings.
Vertical platform lifts: Used where ramp length is impractical due to steep rises.
The space needed depends on the height (rise) that the ramp must cover. A common guideline is a 1:12 gradient — 1 foot of ramp length for every 1 inch of vertical rise.
Examples:
- 1 step (6 inches): ~6 feet of ramp.
- 2 steps (12 inches): ~12 feet of ramp.
- 3 steps (18 inches): ~18 feet of ramp.
This ensures the ramp is safe and comfortable for wheelchair users.
Lifts
The space required for a lift installation depends on the type of lift and the property layout. As a general guide:
| Lift Type | Minimum Space Required | Notes |
| Home lift (through-floor) | Around 1m x 1m floor space | Compact design suitable for most homes |
| Platform lift | Typically 1.2m x 1.5m | Provides wheelchair access; larger footprint |
| Passenger lift | Varies from 1.5m x 1.5m upwards | Designed for multiple passengers; requires more space and building work |
Other factors that affect space requirements include ceiling height, pit depth (sometimes needed for larger lifts), and headroom above the lift. A professional survey is usually required to confirm exact dimensions.
Modern lifts are designed with multiple safety mechanisms to protect users. Common features include:
- Emergency stop buttons – allow the user to halt the lift immediately if needed.
- Backup power supply or battery lowering system – ensures the lift can be brought to the nearest floor during a power cut.
- Safety sensors – detect obstacles and prevent the lift from moving if something is in the way.
- Door interlocks – prevent the lift from operating unless the door is securely closed.
- Overload protection – stops the lift from running if weight limits are exceeded.
- Emergency communication system – in larger lifts, an alarm or phone connection is often included.
These features are built into domestic and commercial lifts to provide reliable, secure operation.
Installation times vary depending on the type of lift, property structure, and level of building work required. Typical timeframes are:
| Lift Type | Average Installation Time | Notes |
| Straightforward home lift | 2–4 days | Minimal building alterations needed |
| Through-floor lift | 1–2 weeks | May involve cutting between floors and strengthening work |
| Passenger or platform lift | Several weeks | Larger construction project, including shafts and machinery |
Preparation work such as surveys and design is done beforehand, which shortens the on-site installation process.
Regular maintenance is essential for safe and efficient lift operation. The frequency depends on usage and local regulations:
- Home lifts (light use): Usually require servicing at least once a year.
- Platform or passenger lifts (frequent use): May require servicing every 3–6 months.
- Legal requirements: In many regions, passenger-carrying lifts must be inspected by a qualified engineer at set intervals.
Routine servicing typically includes checking electrical systems, testing safety features, lubricating moving parts, and cleaning components.
The cost of a lift varies depending on the type, size, and features of the lift, as well as the complexity of the installation. It’s best to speak to us about your requirements and budget, and we can recommend the best lift for you and give you an estimate of the cost.
Servicing and Aftercare
At EMS Lifts, service engineers are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to handle urgent repairs and breakdowns.
Benefits of round-the-clock support include:
- Emergency assistance if your lift stops working unexpectedly.
- Reduced downtime so you can continue using your home safely.
- Peace of mind knowing help is always available.
To access emergency repairs, customers can contact the dedicated support line, and an engineer will be dispatched as quickly as possible.
Yes. EMS Lifts offers warranty extensions for as long as your stairlift or home lift remains in use. Extended warranty coverage typically includes:
- Replacement parts.
- Labour costs for repairs.
- Priority service response.
This provides long-term protection and helps avoid unexpected repair bills.
If you are unhappy with your current provider, EMS Lifts can take over the servicing, maintenance, or replacement of your equipment. Our engineers are trained to work on most major stairlift and lift brands, not just our own installations.
This means you can switch providers at any time and still receive professional, reliable support.
We recommend that your stairlift is serviced at least once a year to ensure its safe and efficient operation. With an EMS Lifts service plan, you can have peace of mind knowing that your equipment is being regularly maintained and serviced by our factory-trained engineers.
EMS Lifts service plans are designed to keep mobility equipment safe and reliable. They typically include:
- Annual servicing to maintain performance and safety.
- Priority call-outs with faster response times for breakdowns.
- Discounted repairs and replacement parts to reduce long-term costs.
- 24/7 emergency support for urgent issues.
Service plans provide predictable costs and peace of mind that your lift is always in expert hands.
