The Stairlift Store

Complete Guide to Purchasing Used Stairlifts

Ah, stairs. Our old nemesis. They’re not much of a challenge when we’re young and full of energy, but they become more physically demanding as we get older.

That’s where stairlifts come in. Not only do they make going up and down the stairs easier, but they also make you feel like you’re on an amusement park ride.

There’s just one problem, for some people the price can be too steep. They can go from $3000 to $15,000. On the other hand used straight stairlifts can be $2,000 to $3,000. And used curved stairlifts can be less than $10,000. These offer excellent value compared to new stairlifts if they have been taken care of. Or are purchased from a reputable company that specializes in stairlifts. That way you can ensure you’re purchasing a quality used stairlift.  

Below is a complete guide of the things we look for in used stairlifts. Please use it as a guide during your used stair lift due diligence.

Take Detailed Measurements

Buying used stairlifts is more complicated than it looks. You don’t just pick one with your favorite design and start the installation process.

New stairlifts are designed to fit a particular set of stairs. But used stairlifts have already been designed for someone else’s stairs.

You need to take detailed measurements of your stairs to ensure that when you buy a used stairlift it will fit your stairs.

Start by standing at the top of the stairs and kneel down so you can take your measurements easily. Extend your tape measure from the top down until it touches the floor. 

Make sure the tape is touching the tip of each step and keep its path as straight as possible. Next, measure the width of the narrowest point in your stairs.

That’s often the distance between the newel posts at the bottom/top of the stairs, but you might have a different design. So, take that information with a grain of salt.

Now, measure the clearing space at the bottom of the stairs. That’s where the chair of the stairlift will sit, so you want it to fit comfortably. Measure from the tip of the bottom stair to the nearest obstruction.

stairlift measurements

Stair Lift Weight Requirements

Different stair lifts have different weight limits. Almost all stairlifts can carry 250 lbs and some models allow for 300lbs.

Above 300 lbs typically require specialized stair lifts. If this is you, make sure that you make sure that the stairlift model you choose. Even if you purchase a great used stairlift with minimal wear and service history it must be able to carry you up the stairs!

Understand Your Lift’s Service History

There is not a definitive way to determine a lifts service history. There is no “CarFax” for stairlifts

Ultimately, you want to buy a model that will stay functional as long as possible. Here are a few questions you can ask to determine that.

  • When did you have the stair lift installed in your home?
  • Was the stair lift new or used when you purchased it?
  • What company installed the stair lift?
  • Can you easily get parts and fix the stair lift if needed?

If you are planning to purchase and install the stair lift by yourself you do not want a stairlift that is older than 5 years. And certainly not older than 10 years. Purchasing a used stair lift that is less than 5 years old is ideal.

If you can find what company installed the stairlift you should contact them. That way you can find out if they have a record of the stairlift. And whether they can easily get parts or provide service on this model of stairlift in case you ever need service work in the future.

Based on all of these questions you will be able to get a broad idea whether you are purchasing a good quality used stairlift, or a poor quality used stair lift.

Of course you can always defer that job to us. The Stairlift Store is very experienced in providing used stair lift solutions for our customers!

Identify the Condition of the Batteries

Ultimately, a used stairlift will never perform as well as a new one. Manufacturers understand that and try to compensate for it by making a few upgrades to these used models.

In many cases, these upgrades include replacing the batteries with new ones to ensure the lift works optimally. So, when you buy a used model, make sure the batteries are fresh.

If they’re not, at least don’t settle for rundown batteries and reach out to a local battery supplier for some fresh stair lift batteries.

Ask About the Reconditioning Process

Believe it or not, not all used stairlifts go through a thorough reconditioning process.

Some are just recklessly unscrewed and stored in a random garage until the vendors put them up for sale. You want to avoid those. How? Simple!

Just ask about the reconditioning process. Who took the lift apart? How was it transported? Where was it stored? What was the reconditioning process like?

stairlift retouched

Final Thoughts

There you go! You have become a stairlift connoisseur, capable of identifying the most efficient used stairlifts on the market.

If the seller can’t provide you with all the answers you need, it may be best to move on and look for a different seller. Purchasing a poor quality used stairlift can result in a lot of headache to fix. 

Not to mention the frustration of still not being able to go up and down the stairs in your home.

Are you interested in buying a used stairlift? But want us to do all the work?  Contact us! We would be happy to help.  

Mark Glenney

Over 1000 Stairlifts Installed In GTA

Mark & the team have installed over 1000 Stairlifts, so you can count on us to do the job right. We understand the difficulty of this transition, so we go the extra mile to show that we care. Always transparent about our process and pricing, we’re here to answer any questions about your new mobility solution.

100% Satisfaction Guarantee On Our Stairlifts

If you’re not happy with your Straight Stairlift we will come and remove it with 100% money back.
Google Rating
5.0
Based on 202 reviews
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Gino Conte
Gino Conte
1728668070
I usually don’t write reviews, but I had to for this company.Mark ( the owner) came over to give me a quote for a stairlift, he was very pleasant and polite. He recommended different options to meet our needs. We decided to have the stairlift store install the lift;2-3 days later I got a call from Mark saying that the stairlift was ready to be installed. We setup an install date andFrank the installer came over to do the work.Frank was very knowledgeable, professional and polite. He answered all my questions. His work was outstanding. If you are looking to have a stairlift installed call the stairlift storeYou won’t be disappointed, trust me !!
Kathy Patterson
Kathy Patterson
1728416430
The people associated with the store were all awesome, I’ve never had so much kind help grime any other place. Mark is an awesome persona and really cares about people and helping them out!! His repair men were so curious and kind. They really stand behind their product and are there to fix anything that goes wrong. Your staff is awesome and a pleasure to have in my home….. very respectful of my property, Thanks Mark…..you are awesome, I can’t thank you enough ❤️
Ed Pendy
Ed Pendy
1727910160
Mark was very helpful and went out of his way to find parts for our Acorn Stairlift. Great customer service and very knowledgeable. Very quick response to our request for parts.
Jason Speight
Jason Speight
1727260202
My father recently fell down some stairs.I called Mark and he and his team had a new stair lift in my parents home in a couple of days.In fairness we could have had it sooner.The whole experience has been nothing but positive.I wouldn't hesitate to call Mark again.
Tom Patti
Tom Patti
1727201939
Had stairlift installed 4 days ago…excellent!Mark responded quickly and arranged for a consultation immediately. Frank installed the chair lift and did a great job. He instructed us on the use of it, etc.I chose The Stairlift Store because a family member recommended this company. After I read the other reviews, I made the decision to have this company do the job.I am very pleased with the results and I would recommend this company to anyone with mobility issues that needs assistance on the stairs.Thank you … Anne
J Prewitt
J Prewitt
1726582913
We had a chair installed last week, and so far, we are finding it very easy to use, and super helpful. Frank was very professional when installing, spent time explaining everything to us, and we appreciated how quickly the whole process from quote to installation was.
Susan Clark
Susan Clark
1726501210
I’m posting this review to reach others, to take at least one thing off your plate of stress, if you have become a caregiver to a family member, finding services to help that can be trusted is stressful and can feel too much like a crap shoot.You won’t find a better provider if you need a stair lift installed in a home.They are cost conscious, offering used stair lift options if they’re available. They provide a warranty, that does not come with a service call cost. They’re honest and informative by advising the repair only needs a part and tracking said part down if it’s possible. When it would be easier for them to make more money by just saying a whole motor needs replacing etc. Their installers are extremely knowledgeable, considerate and trustworthy.You won’t worry while they’re in your home.
Thomas Moore
Thomas Moore
1726490184
The STAIRLIFT Store was great to work with. I had to relocate a chair lift for a family member. The people (Frank and Mark) were easy to talk with and answered all my questions. They took the time to talk with me so that I knew what needed to be done and how it would be done.I have referred the STAIRLIFT store to friends for when a chair lift is needed.
Donna Lero
Donna Lero
1725664039
Wonderful experience. Very responsive, installation within a week of first contacting this store. Mark got back to me right away. Adam was efficient, answered all my questions, very supportive. I would definitely recommend them!
Scott Webster
Scott Webster
1725371745
Very fast and courteous. In and out within a few hours Thank you for the peace of mind Scott.
M Abraham
M Abraham
1725042781
As always prompt and personable
Atom Webstar
Atom Webstar
1725033149
The Stirlift store was amazing adam was very helpful and understanding and was very quick at putting the lift up. Thank you for your hard work
Louise Booth
Louise Booth
1724888408
The staff of The Stairlift Store are all very friendly, kind and helpful. Mark was accommodating in setting up a convenient time for a site & quote visit; Frank was very helpful and informative in giving us information, patiently and clearly explaining all the information to my very elderly parent; and Adam was very friendly, efficient, and thoughtful both during the installation and tutorial for its use. The Bespoke lift is fantastic - easy to use, quiet and lovely looking. It has given new independence for my parent!! Thank you, all!
Mary Gray
Mary Gray
1724840783
The installation was quick and efficient and the product works great. The time from quote to installing was very fast.
Annette Amin
Annette Amin
1724427443
I had a chair lift installed at my house for my Mother a few months back. Mark was very quick in responding, gave me very good advice and was a good support for me at the time. Between Mark and Adam, I had peace of mind. The work was done efficiently and quickly, no mess to clean up. Thank you
Sophie Pirsias
Sophie Pirsias
1724184379
I can't thank Mark, Frank and Adam enough for my parents' new stairlift and their wonderful customer service. From quote to installation was 3 days. The installation itself only took a couple of hours and was ready to use immediately. Thank you again for making my parents' lives easier and safer!!
Tamara Hasan
Tamara Hasan
1723158566
Very pleased with the serviceWe contacted Mark and asked for a quote and he responded in no time with accurate assessment after sending the responsible team for measurements. The entire team is very professional and punctual with their timelines.Highly recommended in case you need a stairlift in your house.
Paul Chang
Paul Chang
1722615520
Very professional throughput the entire process delivering exactly what was promised.
Marilyn Cooper
Marilyn Cooper
1722558371
When the time came to get a stairlift, I did my research. I chose The Stairlift Store. The entire team has been great and the experience has been seamless. I highly recommend them.
Derek Bender
Derek Bender
1722098876
Mark and his team are incredible, they always take care of their customers and care about them.
Sandra Sorichetti Baiao
Sandra Sorichetti Baiao
1722014510
I contacted Mark for a quote on July 24. July 25 Adam came by and took measurements. July 26 Frank came and installed the stairlift. It was needed to be done for Saturday with my mother in law coming home from hospital. Absolutely fantastic service! Thank you Mark Adam and Frank so much!! Cheers!!
Ann Girvan
Ann Girvan
1721753820
Very pleased with service I received from the Stairlift Store. Have used then since 2012.
Abi Monrad
Abi Monrad
1721243630
I had been hit with a power surge and Mark and Frank found that the transformer was burnt out and had my lift up and running again
Liesl DesLauriers
Liesl DesLauriers
1718815731
Unbelievable service from start to finish!I had a very specific last minute request (left a message late on the weekend) and Mark promptly called me back and accommodated my needs. I needed additional track and hardware for a older model lift. Mark, immediately understood the requirements from the photos I sent him. He cut the pieces the exact length required, and had them along with some extra parts, ready for pickup the next day. He was an absolute pleasure to deal with and demonstrated all the traits of a true problem solver. I wish more people were like him.
C Melo
C Melo
1718723338
Got referred to Mark (The stairlift Store) from a friend of a friend and from the very initial call when I spoke to Mark I knew that he was different from all the other places I had called and I called quite a few of them. Mark was very pleasant to speak to on the phone and listened patiently to all my concerns and educated me also on the product. I had called on behalf of my elderly parents. Mark had scheduled me in for a visit with a wonderful rep named Linda she reached out to me over the phone arranged a time date to meet and went over the locations of where we were going to install the stairlifts (we went with 2 straight stairlifts instead of the curved) we were given the pros and cons of both and decided to go with 2 straight stairlifts (due to stair design) Linda was so pleasant and patient also to deal with throughout the whole process not only did she show up the day of installation to ensure everything was going well but also surprised my parents with ordering the cushion covers for the stairlift to match my parents decor they had….left my parents speechless now that is service. The A++ service didn’t stop there now comes the installation, our installer Adam, well what I can say he was also so pleasant to deal with, he was so professional throughout the whole process and left the working area cleaner than it was after the installation was complete, he was so patient with my parents when he went through the operation of the stairlift , he took the time needed to ensure that they were comfortable with the stairlift and its operation before he left. I am so glad The Stairlift Store has addressed many limitations that my parents had that they no longer have to deal with. I want to send a huge thank you to Mark and his amazing team at The Stairlift Store they had made this process so painless and easy, I would HIGHLY recommend anyone to deal with Mark and his crew at The Stairlift Store.
Robert Musa
Robert Musa
1717362652
Mark was patient, friendly and extremely helpful. I had some troubleshooting questions and any time I called, Mark got back to me in short order and answered all my questions. Great customer experience!
David G Bahra
David G Bahra
1715268952
"Mark is very helpful even if they do not make a sale. Their commitment to providing the best customer service is highly commendable. I would highly recommend them."
Jean Robertson
Jean Robertson
1715028412
I’m extremely pleased with The Stairlift Store. I contacted the company on-line on a Sunday , within 1/2 hour Mark called me, set up an appointment and the stairlift was installed on Wednesday the same week. I thought I should get a brand new unit for my husband, but was so pleased, that I was not directed to a new unit, rather to a used unit, which would function better in tight situation. We are extremely please with the unit, with the price , the warranty and with the exceptional service provided by the company. The installer was great too! A great big THANK YOU to you all!
Dave Little
Dave Little
1714075976
Mark provided excellent service in dealing with service issues that other companies could not resolve. My parents and I appreciate all your help.
Betty Calvert
Betty Calvert
1713987350
Thank you for the excellent service. Our stairlift has been installed within a day of initial contact. Frank was very knowledgeable and pleasant to deal with and installation was very efficient.
Sanjoy Acharya
Sanjoy Acharya
1712867810
Mark & Glen make a good team. Mark even arranged a demo for us, before we bought the “Synergy” straight model. So far, it seems a sturdy piece of hardware, looks nice too. Frank put it in for us in less than two hours
THE NERDLINGER
THE NERDLINGER
1712595418
The guys are great. Mark came by same day to provide an assessment and worked with me to find the right lift for my mom. Adam came to do the install less than a week later. Adam was professional, courteous and efficient. I highly recommend The Stairlift Store.
Jennifer K
Jennifer K
1711673182
The team at the Stairlift Store installed my parents' Acorn stairlifts several years ago. The few calls my parents made to Mark regarding the devices were addressed promptly. This promptness was critical, as well functioning stairlifts were essential to my parents' independence in their home. We had to have one of the stairlifts removed for basement work a few times, and the team was very flexible and worked around the other contractors' timelines. Everyone on the team has been professional, courteous and respectful. I would highly recommend the Stairlift Store if you are purchasing, or maintaining stairlifts.
Chris Moyer
Chris Moyer
1711667390
Mark was great to deal with and frank did an amazing job installing this stair lift. Great people. Thanks guys.
janet bilyj
janet bilyj
1710425989
very pleased with instalition and service.Highly recomed this company. my huaband had a massive stroke. this was the only way to access his mancave. MANY MANY THANKS janet and les lang fort erie ont
John Stultz
John Stultz
1710250368
With both of my parents now using their stairlift, it has finally needed to be replaced after many years of solid use. When it broke on the weekend, it was urgent that we had it replaced fast. As usual, I called Mark. He drove right over; he was there in twenty minutes, from Burlington. After he inspected the old unit, he gave my parents many options, including repair, or replace, which was great.My parents decided to get a slightly used replacement unit, which included a two-year warranty. Frank, one of the technicians, replaced the unit, and my parents regained their mobility. We have called Mark many times over the years, and even on a Saturday, he is available :). As a son, I can say that I am very grateful for Mark and his team. I feel comfortable with them going over to my parents, without me there, knowing that they will get great service, and not be taken advantage of, or pressured. For that, I am grateful.
Lenny Jobin
Lenny Jobin
1709830605
In 2020 the stair lift store installed 2 stair lifts in my father-in-law’s house. The installation was fast and professional. The lifts worked perfectly with no problems at all. We just had the lifts removed and the removal was also done fast and efficiently. I’m very pleased we picked the stair lift store to look after our stair lift needs as they made it easy and painless during a difficult time. L Jobin
David West
David West
1709755940
Mark and Frank were very professional in their approach with a excellent knowledge of their Bespoke stairlift product. The installation took minimal time and before he left, Frank gave a detailed explanation of how the lift worked. We are most impressed with the unit and are looking forward to many years of use. Congratulations to The Stairlift Store for a job well done!
Richard Charron
Richard Charron
1709745256
Mark returned my call on Saturday to schedule an appointment that afternoon. Mark explained to me what they had to offer. I was looking for 2 chair lifts. He then took measurement and quoted me a price. I called him back on Monday to confirm and on Tuesday Frank, William and Adam were at my house for the installation of both chair lifts. All three were polite and very professional. Once both were installed Adam took the time to explain to me how to use the chair lift. I went up and down a couple of times without any issues very easy to use. These units will be a blessing as I was struggling in going up and down the stairs. I am really pleased that I called Stairlift Store. I would recommend that if anyone is looking for a chair lift please give them a call.
David & Marion Reimer
David & Marion Reimer
1709574696
They are very knowledgeable, professional and friendly. We’re glad that we chose the Stairlift Store.
Dan Delill
Dan Delill
1708187079
Great company to deal with!!Fast and reliable.
robin p
robin p
1707249221
Installed this chair lift for my parents in 2021 and it has been the best thing to be able to keep them in their home and independent. Service for installation was quick and easy for us. They are only a phone call away when you need any follow up and respond quickly. Highly recommend them.
Don Nicks
Don Nicks
1706392316
Great service. Answered my questions about a squeaky seat rotation ang bumpy ride over the phone without charging me for a visit. Highly recommended.
Jaak Muur
Jaak Muur
1706133048
I would like to thank Mark for being such a professional contact and helpful person in getting me what I need for my personal use to get up and down stairs. No sooner had we made contact a couple of days later we had Will and Adam two were excellent courteous and knowledgable technitions and in about 2 hours provided me with the ride I needed. I fully recommend this Stairlift Store for anyone needing such equipment. Many thanks.Jaak Muur
Rebecca Correia
Rebecca Correia
1705801197
Paul Leonard Gallina
Paul Leonard Gallina
1705349723
This is a very service-focused customer friendly store. I called on Sunday at noon and had someone here the next morning. We just cannot operate without a stairlift. The problem was fixed in fifteen minutes. Expensive, mind you, but effective and pleasant to deal with.
Daley Soares
Daley Soares
1704730139
I just wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for the outstanding service The Stairlift Store provides.From start to finish, the level of professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine commitment to customer satisfaction is truly impressive.I highly recommend Mark & Adam to anyone seeking/considering getting a Stairlift installed in their homes.
Denise Kankainen
Denise Kankainen
1704556539
Happy new year ,I just want to give a massive shout out to Mark at Stairlift store ,what a fantastic personable help he was so patient and understanding help with my father John Broadfoot and they came up with the issue of his chair lift ,and the offer of help as wellWhat a great help and the service was beyond none and would definitely use them again. 😀
Katherine Alikiotis
Katherine Alikiotis
1704414558
I had great customer service from Mark Glenney and his team William and Frank , who installed a chairlift at my house . I called Mark to get quote. He came by the house to measure and answered all my questions . After the measurements were taken , he made phone calls and was very quick locating a pre-owned chairlift for me for a good price . I could not believe that just before the Christmas holidays (within 3 days of my inquiry ) my chairlift was installed . The install was seamless and very quick and the technicians made sure, before they left , that I was comfortable using the chairlift. I was vey pleased with my purchase and the overall experience and will highly recommend the Stairlift Store to anyone considering purchasing a chairlift. Thank you.
Tony Bazzo
Tony Bazzo
1704406791
Frank was amazing the way he responded to a call for my mother stairlifts(3) he put her mind at ease by figuring out that she had relocated different remotes throughout the house so that she thought they weren’t working when actually they worked fine. No charge for that service call can’t say much more about the fabulous service they provide. Always just a phone call away.
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