Can you install a home elevator in a condo or townhouse?

If you have limited mobility or plan to age in place, a high-rise condo or multi-level townhome can be hard to live in. Going up and down stairs to carry laundry, haul groceries, or help a loved one can turn into a struggle. To solve this, many homeowners consider installing a home elevator. With the right plan, you can add a home lift to most multi-level homes.

In California, where two-story condos and townhomes are common, a residential elevator can make daily life easier and safer. Whether you plan to age in place, need mobility help, or want more convenience, a home elevator can make a big difference.

In this guide, we’ll cover whether you can add an in-home elevator to a condo or townhome, the best types for small spaces, and how to plan for multi-story homes. We’ll also cover benefits, costs, and how an in-home lift may affect resale value. Finally, we list other mobility devices and explain why working with a pro team helps this project go smoothly.

Key takeaways

• You can install a home elevator in most condos and townhomes, but you may need HOA approval.
• Compact options, such as pneumatic (vacuum) elevators, fit well in multi-level homes.
• A home elevator improves safety, convenience, and resale value.
• Costs vary by type, size, finishes, and whether it’s a retrofit or part of new construction.

Can you add a home elevator to your condo or townhouse?

Yes, you can usually add a home elevator in a condo or townhome. First, check that your space, floor plan, and building rules allow it.

In a townhome, common locations include near the stairs, in a living room corner, or by converting closet space. If you add a lift to an existing home, you can choose a retrofit. A retrofit refers to adjusting the home to accommodate the elevator.

Adding a residential elevator to your condo unit may be more challenging due to shared walls and existing building policies. You’ll likely need to get approval from your homeowners association (HOA) before choosing a home elevator to confirm whether this home modification is allowed and what guidelines they have for the device. 

Once approved, an elevator company can review your space and recommend the best type for your needs.

The types of residential elevators that fit smaller homes

You can add a residential elevator to many small homes. Not every model fits tight spaces, but these compact options work well in condos and townhomes:

Pneumatic elevators

Pneumatic elevators use air pressure inside a clear tube to move between floors. They don’t need a large shaft or a machine room, so that they can suit tight spaces and budgets.

Vacuum elevators

Vacuum (air-driven) elevators are a type of pneumatic model. They look sleek, need minimal construction, and can go where a whole shaft won’t fit. They’re popular in condos and townhomes because they take up little living space.

Hydraulic elevators

Hydraulic elevators use a piston powered by a pump. They can carry more weight and feel smooth. Many newer models do not need a separate machine room, which can save space and build time.

Machine room–fewer elevators (MRL)

These elevators use counterweights and do not need a separate machine room. They’re a good fit when you want a private elevator without losing much living space.

The best type depends on your layout, budget, and features you need.

Planning around space in multi-level properties

Space is often the biggest challenge in high-rise condos. In multi-level townhomes, you may give up closet space or adjust part of the stairs. That’s why it’s essential to work with professionals who can ensure your living space remains comfortable and compliant with regulations.

The process is more straightforward if you’re building a new home. Builders can add an elevator shaft into the floor plans from the start, saving you time and reducing elevator cost. It also saves you from needing a renovation later.

In condos, the HOA sets rules for renovations and may allow only certain elevator types. Check these rules before you plan.

The benefits of having a home elevator

A residential elevator is about more than convenience. Falls are a leading cause of injury among seniors, according to the CDC. A home lift can lower risks and make your home easier to use.

• Safety: Reduce risks when moving heavy loads between floors.
• Accessibility: If you or a loved one has limited mobility or disabilities, an elevator makes every level of your home accessible.
• Functionality: A private elevator makes it easier to move groceries, furniture, and laundry between floors.
• Features: Many models include emergency lowering, safety sensors, and smooth, quiet rides.

Even families without mobility issues find that an in-home elevator saves time and energy each day.

Elevator costs: what homeowners should expect

Elevator cost depends on several factors:

• Type of elevator: Vacuum elevators are often the most cost-effective option, while hydraulic models may be more expensive but can handle a greater weight capacity.
• Existing home vs. new home construction: A retrofit usually costs more than adding an elevator during new construction.
• Finishes and design: Choosing high-end finishes makes the elevator more stylish, but it also raises the price.
• Permits and HOA rules: Condo HOAs may require additional fees or approvals, which can increase the total cost.

Most elevator companies review your plans and then provide an estimate. They’ll show where the shaft will go, if a machine room is needed, and how long the job may take.

How a home elevator impacts real estate value

A residential elevator can help your condo or townhome stand out. Buyers often value homes with built-in accessibility.

For buyers planning to age in place or those with family members who have mobility issues, an in-home elevator is a valuable feature. Real estate agents in California say homes with private elevators often sell faster and for more because of the added functionality.

The added value of a home elevator applies to both modest townhomes and high-rise condos. Even if the building has shared elevators, a private unit elevator adds privacy and convenience.

Even if you won’t sell soon, an elevator adds long-term value by keeping your home accessible as your needs change.

Alternatives to full elevators

If you need mobility help but can’t add a full elevator, try these options:

• Stair lifts: These attach to the staircase and are less expensive. They do not carry large items between floors.
• Home lifts: These smaller systems act like a mini in-home elevator. They’re compact, easier to retrofit, and often cost less.

These options fit when you only need help moving between floors and want to avoid a major renovation.

Making the right choice for your California home

When planning a home elevator, begin by considering HOA rules, obtaining necessary permits, and creating a clear space plan. Choose the type that fits your layout and budget, then schedule a professional site review to confirm details.

Our certified specialists at California Mobility can review options, explain costs, and recommend the best fit for your home. 

Contact us today or request a free quote to start your project.

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