What to Expect During a Professional Stairlift Home Survey

What the surveyor measures

• Stair length, rise and going (height and depth of each step).
• Clear width of the staircase at its narrowest point.
• Top and bottom landings, including space to get on and off and any doors nearby.
• Obstructions: radiators, window sills, newel posts, handrails and low ceilings.
• Power: a 13-amp socket near the top or bottom of the stairs.
• For curved stairs, a full 3D record, often by photogrammetry — see curved stairlifts.

Assessing the user's needs

A good surveyor spends as much time on the person as on the stairs. Expect questions and short tests on:

• Knee bend: whether a standard or perch seat is more comfortable.
• Transfers: how easily the user can sit down and stand up, and on which side.
• Swivel: whether a powered swivel is needed at the top.
• Hand strength and dexterity: to choose suitable controls.
• Weight and height: to confirm the right model, including heavy-duty options.
• Future needs: whether mobility is likely to change.

Protecting yourself from pressure selling

• Ask for the quote in writing and take time to compare it with others.
• Be cautious of "today only" discounts. Genuine prices do not depend on signing immediately.
• Know your cancellation rights. Contracts signed in your home normally carry a 14-day cancellation period under the Consumer Contracts Regulations, though bespoke items such as curved rails may be treated differently once made — ask in writing.
• You can end the visit at any time.

Before the survey, it helps to measure your stairs and read our buying guide.