New vs reconditioned stairlifts
A new stairlift is supplied as new equipment, while a reconditioned stairlift has been owned before and prepared for another installation. Both may be worth considering, but their price, available features and after-sales terms can differ. The right choice depends on your staircase, mobility needs, budget and the models a supplier can provide.
Smile Stairlifts is a comparison and referral service, not an installer. We help you compare options from participating stairlift companies; each supplier is responsible for its own assessment, quotation, installation and support.
New or reconditioned straight stairlift?
Straight staircases often give you a good choice of both new and reconditioned stairlifts. The right option depends on your budget, requirements and available models.
New Straight Stairlifts
Brand-new equipment
Wider choice of models and features
Suitable for customers wanting a new stairlift
Reconditioned Straight Stairlifts
Previously owned equipment
Professionally checked and prepared for reuse
Can provide a lower-cost option where suitable
Compare New & Reconditioned →
New and reconditioned at a glance
Use this comparison as a starting point. The condition, specification and terms of an individual stairlift should always be confirmed with the supplier.
Price
New
Usually a higher upfront price, depending on the model and installation.
Reconditioned
Can cost less where a suitable reconditioned model is available; compare like-for-like quotes.
Condition
New
New equipment supplied by the company, with model and finish as quoted.
Reconditioned
Previously owned equipment prepared for reuse. Ask its age, condition and what was replaced.
Warranty
New
Terms vary by supplier and product. Check the length, exclusions and who provides cover.
Reconditioned
Cover varies by supplier and may differ from new equipment. Ask for written terms.
Features
New
A choice of current models and options may be available to suit the user and stairs.
Reconditioned
Available features depend on the specific model and stock; check that it meets your needs.
Availability
New
Depends on the model, staircase survey and supplier’s stock or manufacturing schedule.
Reconditioned
Depends on suitable used stock, compatible equipment and the supplier’s assessment.
Lifespan
New
There is no fixed lifespan: usage, maintenance, model and environment all matter.
Reconditioned
Remaining life depends on age, prior use, refurbishment and ongoing maintenance; ask about parts support.
Benefits and drawbacks to consider
Buying new
A new lift may offer a wider choice of current models, finishes and features, with equipment supplied unused. You can discuss options with a supplier after your staircase and needs have been assessed.
The initial price is often higher, and the model or rail you need may not be immediately available. A new product does not remove the need to compare warranty, servicing and suitability.
Buying reconditioned
A suitable previously owned lift may reduce the initial cost and give equipment another useful life. Ask the company exactly how the lift has been inspected, refurbished and tested.
Choice depends on the stock available and its compatibility with your staircase. Cosmetic wear, age, features and warranty terms differ between individual lifts and suppliers.
How prices can differ
Smile’s existing guide lists straight stairlifts from £1,295 and curved stairlifts from £3,295. These are general starting prices, not separate prices for new and reconditioned models. Your quotation will depend on your home, requirements and the supplier.
Straight stairlifts
A reconditioned straight lift may be less expensive than a comparable new one when suitable equipment is available. Ask whether the quote includes the rail, installation, any required alterations and after-sales cover.
Curved stairlifts
A curved rail must follow the individual bends and landings of your staircase. Even when a reconditioned chair or lift unit is available, a rail made for your stairs may still be needed, which can affect the total price.
What to ask about safety and refurbishment
A previously owned lift should be assessed for the person and the staircase, not chosen on price alone. Ask each supplier to explain its own process and provide the details in writing.
Inspection and preparation
Ask how the lift’s age, service history and condition are checked, which components are inspected, cleaned, repaired or replaced, and whether compatible replacement parts remain available.
Testing and installation
Ask what mechanical and electrical checks are carried out before installation, how safety controls and the rail are checked afterwards, and what records or instructions you will receive. The supplier should explain who carries out the work.
Suitability for the user
Discuss transfers on and off the seat, controls, space at both landings and any mobility or household needs. Ask the supplier to assess whether the proposed lift and rail are appropriate for your staircase.
Warranty, servicing and support
Warranty and servicing arrangements are set by the supplier and can vary for new and reconditioned equipment. A lower purchase price may not be the best overall value if the support you need costs extra.
Read the warranty terms
Ask how long cover lasts, whether parts and labour are included, what is excluded, and who handles a fault. Check whether the rail, batteries and call-outs are covered rather than assuming they are.
Plan for ongoing care
Ask whether servicing is included or optional, what it costs, who to contact for repairs and how replacement parts are obtained. Keep your written quote, warranty and maintenance instructions together.
Which option might suit you?
Consider new if choice is a priority
A new lift may be worth exploring if you need particular controls, seating or other options, or want to compare current models. Availability and suitability should be confirmed by the supplier.
Consider reconditioned if budget matters
A reconditioned model may be worth comparing when keeping the initial cost down is important and a suitable lift is available. Weigh its age, condition, support and warranty alongside the quote.
Start with the staircase and the person
A straight staircase may offer different choices from one with bends or landings. Tell suppliers about your layout and the user’s needs, then compare written quotations on the same basis. For a short-term need, you can also ask suppliers whether rental is available and compare its terms.
Questions to ask before you buy
Take these questions to each supplier so you can compare the full offer, not just the headline price.
1.
Is the proposed lift new or reconditioned, and how old is the lift unit?
2.
What inspection, refurbishment and safety testing has been completed?
3.
Is the rail new or reused, and is it made or adjusted for my staircase?
4.
Does the quote include the rail, installation and any required alterations?
5.
Which features are included, and are they suitable for my mobility needs?
6.
What does the warranty cover, for how long, and what is excluded?
7.
Are servicing, repairs and call-outs included? What could they cost later?
8.
Who provides after-sales support, and are replacement parts available?
New and reconditioned stairlift FAQs
What is a reconditioned stairlift?
Is a reconditioned stairlift suitable for my home?
Are reconditioned stairlifts safe?
Is a reconditioned stairlift always cheaper?
Can I get a reconditioned curved stairlift?
Does a reconditioned lift include a warranty?
How long will a stairlift last?
What servicing will I need?
How do I compare quotations?
Compare stairlift quotations with confidence
Tell us about your staircase and compare options from participating stairlift companies. Each supplier provides its own quotation and terms.
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