Everything you need to know about
Stairlifts
If you’re finding day to day mobility difficult especially when it comes to the stairs, a stairlift can be the perfect solution dependant upon your needs.
As experts, we’re here to support and inform you with everything you need to know, whether you’re ready to look at buying one now, or just thinking about the future when you or a loved one may need one.
People Often Ask
Do I Need A Stairlift?
Do I Need A Stairlift?
There’s no hard and fast rulebook for who does and doesn’t need a one.
Everyone’s health, mobility, and needs differ, but generally if you are having difficulty moving around your home especially when it comes to the stairs, it may be time to start considering your options.
We understand the importance of mobility and independence, and how important it is for you to stay in the home you love.
Planning in advance is always recommended, so you know your options before things become too difficult, and purchasing a stairlift becomes a rushed reaction rather than a well thought out decision.
Narrowing Down The Options
Which Stairlift Do I Need?
Which Stairlift Do I Need?
With so many options available, choosing the right option can sometimes be a bit daunting. That’s where we come in. Our friendly expert team will guide you through the whole process.
Every customer and every home is different, that’s why it’s crucial to have a home survey to assess what options will work best for you.
During a home survey we’ll consider things like: available space, staircase configuration, user weight and dimensions, available power supplies, space to walk by, potential collision / trip risks. These are just a few of the details that should be taken into account to ensure it’s the right solution for you or your family member.
This part of your journey to improving your mobility is crucial to get right, which is why our experts take care of the complicated part, so you don’t have to.
Our Lift Range
Our Lift Range
Ergo Ultimate
Homeglide Extra
Flow X
Modul Air-Smart
Elite Curved
Ergo Straight
Elite Straight
Ergo Curve
Elite Outdoor
independent suppliers
What’s The Next Step?
What’s The Next Step?
If you’ve decided you’d like to start the process of improving your home mobility and independence, the next step is to start the process by contacting us.
Don’t worry, we’ll make it easy. We’ll arrange to visit you at home to determine what stairlifts will be best suited to your needs, and you can come into our Baldock showroom to try out the stairlifts. After you’ve chosen your stairlift, we’ll keep you informed from order right up to installation day.
Our expert team will guide you through the process, make it simple and easy, and ensure that you reach your end goal of being more mobile in the home you love.
The Difference A Stairlift Can Make
We find that many customers are in the same situation as Valerie and her husband, where it becomes difficult to use the stairs and therefore the question arises, can we stay in our home?
Watch Valerie’s story on how we helped her and her husband to remain in the home they love.
Most Commonly Asked Questions
Explore our FAQ section for swift answers to your stairlift and mobility solution questions, helping you make informed decisions with ease.
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.
- 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.
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.
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. 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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. 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. 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.
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.
