Can You Move a Stair Lift When You Move to a New Home?
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If you or a loved one uses a stair lift, you might wonder what happens when you move. Can you remove it and install it in the new home, or is a new lift easier?
The answer depends on your stair lift model, your new staircase, and the total cost of removing and reinstalling it. For many California homeowners, especially those in San Diego and Los Angeles, with numerous multi-level homes, this choice impacts both their budget and daily comfort.
This guide explains what to consider when moving a stair lift, including challenges, costs, and when buying a new or reconditioned lift is the better option.
Key takeaways:
- You can easily remove and uninstall a straight stair lift. However, curved stairlifts are harder to reinstall in a new house.
- Professional stairlift removal is safer compared to DIY and helps protect your lift. You may damage your stair lift and the wall if you attempt to remove it yourself.
- In many cases, buying a reconditioned or new stair lift is more cost-effective.
- Call a stairlift company for advice. You can check their phone number and ask about in-home visits.
Understanding your type of stair lift
Your lift type decides whether you can move it. Straight stair lifts utilize a simple rail, making them the easiest to remove and reinstall. If the new home has a straight staircase, the rail may fit with minor tweaks.
Curved stair lifts are different. They are custom-built to fit one staircase, which means the rail won’t match a new one. In most cases, you cannot reuse curved stair lifts when you’re moving homes.
Outdoor stair lifts follow the same rule. You can move a straight model, but you’ll likely replace a curved one to match the new layout. A local stair lift company can inspect your staircase and explain options.
How stairlift removal and reinstallation work
Stair lift removal may sound simple, but it’s best to have a trained technician handle it. Pros remove the rail and chair without harming your stairs or the lift. DIY may seem cheaper, but it can damage parts and void the warranty.
After removal, installation in the new home follows the same steps as a new lift. A technician measures the staircase, installs the rail, and tests all safety features, including the seatbelt. Professional stair lift installation is always safer than attempting to do it yourself.
Costs: Move vs. Buy a New Stair Lift
The cost of stair lift moves includes removal, transport, and installation in the new house. By the time you add it all up, it may be close to the price of a reconditioned stair lift, or even a new one.
If you own an older Bruno or Acorn model, parts may be hard to find. In that case, selling the old lift and buying a replacement often makes more sense. Many California stair lift companies offer reconditioned models with warranties, which can save money.
Comfort and safety for family members
Cost isn’t the only factor. Think about the person who uses the lift every day. Older lifts may lack newer safety features or smooth operation. A new stair lift can improve comfort, reduce hassle, and support aging in place.
If the new home has multiple levels or outdoor steps, consider other accessibility options. A small wheelchair lift, an in-home ramp, or an outdoor stair lift may be a better fit than moving your current chair lift.
When buying a new stair lift, it is better
If you own a curved stair lift, moving it usually isn’t an option. Even with straight stairs, some older models won’t reinstall safely. In these cases, a new lift is the better choice.
Buying new gives you full warranty coverage, the latest safety features, and a precise fit for your stairs. If cost is a concern, consider asking about reconditioned or used models. Many California mobility companies have showrooms that allow you to test lifts before making a decision.
Choosing the right stair lift for your new home
Deciding whether to move or replace your stair lift comes down to cost, safety, and comfort. You can sometimes reuse straight stair lifts, but you often need to replace curved and older models with a new one.
With the right stair lift or wheelchair lift, you and your loved one can stay safe and comfortable in your new home without the hassle.
At California Mobility, we help homeowners throughout California select the most suitable accessibility solutions for their specific needs.
If you’re moving into a new house and need expert advice on stair lift removal or installation, contact us for a free quote or call the phone number on our website to schedule an in-home consultation.
