Stairlifts: every type, what fits and what it costs
A stairlift carries a person up and down the stairs on a rail fixed to the treads. Which one you need depends on the shape of the stairs, the space at the top and bottom, and how the user moves.
Updated Oct 21, 2026
The main types
| Type | For which stairs | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Straight stairlift | One straight flight, no turns or landings | Users who can sit and stand up with little help |
| Curved stairlift | Turns, landings, winders, several floors | The same, on stairs a straight rail can't follow |
| Standing or perch stairlift | Narrow stairs; any shape with a custom rail | People who can't bend their knees well |
| Outdoor stairlift | Steps outside: garden, porch, entrance | Weatherproof seat and rail |
| Wheelchair platform lift | Wide stairs with room at both ends | Wheelchair users who can't transfer to a seat |
For very narrow or spiral stairs, a home lift or a portable stair climber can be the better answer.
What decides the price
Typical prices in United Kingdom
GBP
| What | Price range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Straight stairlift | £2,000 – £5,000 Which? owner survey: from about £2,000; 86% paid £5,000 or less (average £3,501 in 2020, £3,867 in 2022). Stannah straight models from £3,585 with a two-year warranty. | Which? owner survey: from about £2,000; 86% paid £5,000 or less (average £3,501 in 2020, £3,867 in 2022). Stannah straight models from £3,585 with a two-year warranty. |
| Curved stairlift | from £7,000 Which?: curved or long staircases cost £7,000 or more. Stannah curved models from £7,134. | Which?: curved or long staircases cost £7,000 or more. Stannah curved models from £7,134. |
| Reconditioned straight stairlift | from £2,831 Reconditioned Stannah Siena for a straight stair, with installation, a one-year warranty and one service. | Reconditioned Stannah Siena for a straight stair, with installation, a one-year warranty and one service. |
Disabled people pay no VAT on a stairlift, its installation and repairs (GOV.UK).
Sources: Which? (2020-09), checked Oct 21, 2026 · Stannah (UK), checked Oct 21, 2026
- Shape of the stairs: a straight rail is made in standard lengths; a curved rail is made to measure for your stairs, which is why curved lifts cost several times more.
- New, reconditioned or rented: reconditioned stairlifts suit straight stairs; renting can make sense for short-term needs.
- Options: a powered swivel seat, a folding rail at the bottom, a heavy-duty model.
How to choose
Start with the 3D planner: it checks every type against your stairs. Then compare quotes with the quote checker, and check the grants before you order. Some grants have to be approved before the work starts.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest kind of stairlift?
A straight stairlift for a single straight flight, especially a reconditioned one. Curved stairlifts cost more because the rail is made to measure.
Can a stairlift be fitted on any staircase?
Most staircases can take one. Very narrow, very steep or spiral stairs need a survey; sometimes a home lift is the better answer.
Can other people still use the stairs?
Yes. The seat, arms and footrest fold up, and the rail sits close to the wall. The planner shows how much width stays free.
Ask a question
Our helper answers from the FiveStair guides and price data, and shows where each answer comes from.
Please don't type names, phone numbers or health details.
Plan my stairs in 3D
Your own stairs in 3D. See which lift fits, what it costs in your country and which grants you can claim. Free, no sign-up.
Related
Straight stairlifts
For one straight flight: the simplest and cheapest stairlift.
Curved stairlifts
A made-to-measure rail for stairs with turns, landings or winders.
Cost calculator
Typical prices in your country, running costs and the grants that lower the bill.
3D Planner
Your stairs in 3D with the lift riding on them, and a fit check for every lift type.