Buying a stairlift is a significant investment. If you’re exploring more affordable options, a professionally refurbished model can be a safe and reliable choice – but the key word is professionally.
The truth is straightforward: a refurbished stairlift can be just as safe as a new one when it’s been properly inspected, tested and installed. The real difference isn’t whether a stairlift has had a previous owner. What matters is the quality of the refurbishment, who carried it out, and whether the equipment has been assessed for your specific home.
This guide walks you through what makes a refurbished stairlift safe, what to look for when buying one and the important differences between a professionally refurbished model and a privately bought second-hand unit.
What is a refurbished stairlift?
A refurbished (or reconditioned) stairlift is one that’s had a previous user. Before it’s sold again, it undergoes a thorough professional process. The stairlift is mechanically and electrically inspected, worn or faulty components are repaired or replaced, everything is cleaned and tested, then it’s prepared for its next owner.
This is very different from buying second-hand privately. When you buy from a private seller, there’s no guarantee the stairlift has had any professional checks. You won’t know how it was maintained, whether components are nearing the end of their life, or if safety features are actually working.
Are refurbished stairlifts safe?
Yes, professionally refurbished stairlifts can be safe when they’ve been properly inspected and installed. The condition of the equipment and the quality of the refurbishment matter far more than the fact it’s had a previous user.
A safe refurbished stairlift should have:
- Mechanical and electrical components checked for wear or damage
- All safety features tested to confirm they’re working correctly
- Worn or faulty parts replaced before installation
- Professional fitting to ensure it suits both your staircase and your individual needs
The installation process is particularly important. A stairlift that worked perfectly in a previous home won’t automatically fit yours. Your surveyor needs to assess whether the equipment can be adapted for your stairs and whether it’s suitable for your physical requirements.
What should be checked when a stairlift is refurbished?
A thorough refurbishment includes checks of:
- Motor and drive system
- Batteries and charging system
- Rail and fixings
- Seat and swivel mechanism
- Seat belt
- Controls
- Safety and obstruction sensors
- Braking system
- Remote controls
- General mechanical and electrical condition
Any worn or faulty components should be repaired or replaced before the stairlift is supplied to the next customer. This is where the quality of the refurbisher matters. A reputable company won’t cut corners or reuse unsafe parts.
What safety features should a refurbished stairlift have?
Look for these standard safety features:
- Seat belt – Keeps the user secure during movement
- Obstruction sensors – Stop the stairlift if something blocks the rail
- Swivel seat – Allows the user to exit safely at the top or bottom
- Braking system – Prevents movement if power is lost
- Smooth start and stop – Reduces jolting and discomfort
- Battery backup – Powers the stairlift to the bottom if the power fails
- Call and send controls – Lets you operate the stairlift from the top or bottom of the stairs
Having these features isn’t enough on its own. They need to be checked and tested as part of the refurbishment process. A reputable supplier will provide evidence that safety testing has been completed.
Is it safe to buy a second-hand stairlift privately?
Buying privately from an individual seller carries different risks than purchasing a professionally refurbished model.
When you buy from a private seller, you might not know:
- How the stairlift was maintained previously
- Whether it’s had any professional inspection or safety testing
- If batteries and other components are nearing the end of their usable life
- Whether a warranty, servicing or aftercare support will be included
- If the stairlift and rail are actually suitable for your stairs
A private sale can work out cheaper upfront, but you’re assuming the responsibility for finding someone to professionally assess it before installation. You’re also unlikely to have any recourse if something goes wrong after installation.
A professional refurbished stairlift, by comparison, comes with the supplier’s backing and usually includes installation, safety checks and some level of aftercare support.
Will a used stairlift fit my staircase?
This is one of the most important questions, and the answer depends on whether your staircase is straight or curved.
Straight stairlifts are generally easier to reuse. The rail is designed for a straight staircase, so it can often be fitted to a similar staircase in a different home without needing modification.
Curved stairlift rails are typically designed specifically for the shape and dimensions of an individual staircase. A refurbished curved stairlift may need careful assessment. Parts of the rail might be reusable, but you could need a custom section made to fit your specific stairs. Don’t assume a stairlift will fit just because the previous home had stairs that look similar.
A professional home survey is essential before you commit to buying any second-hand stairlift. The surveyor will measure your stairs and confirm what can be reused and what needs to be made or adapted for your home.
Are refurbished stairlifts as reliable as new stairlifts?
A professionally refurbished stairlift can provide reliable service when properly maintained. Here’s how they compare:
New stairlifts contain entirely unused components with no previous wear.
Refurbished stairlifts contain previously used parts, which is why the quality of the refurbishment is crucial. The older the model, the more important it is to check that replacement parts are still available.
Both new and refurbished stairlifts need regular servicing to keep them working reliably. The model and manufacturer also matter. Some older stairlift models have better parts availability than others, which affects long-term reliability and repair costs.
What should you look for when buying a refurbished stairlift?
Use this checklist to assess a refurbished stairlift supplier:
- Reputable supplier – Check reviews and ask for references
- Clear refurbishment process – They should be able to explain what’s been checked and replaced
- Professional home survey – Essential before any commitment
- Comprehensive safety testing – Ask for evidence of electrical and mechanical testing
- Professional installation – Not a DIY job
- Warranty – What’s covered and for how long?
- Aftercare and repair support – Especially if something goes wrong
- Availability of replacement parts – Particularly for older models
- A model suited to your individual needs – Not just the cheapest option
- Ongoing servicing options – For maintenance after installation
The cheapest refurbished stairlift isn’t necessarily the best value. A supplier that offers thorough refurbishment, professional installation and reliable aftercare will cost more upfront but could save you money and stress in the long run.
What are the benefits of buying a refurbished stairlift?
Refurbished stairlifts do offer genuine advantages:
They’re usually significantly more affordable than a new equivalent model. For people with a tighter budget, this can make the difference between buying a safe, professionally checked stairlift and struggling to afford one at all.
A professionally refurbished model can still provide safe and reliable operation. You’re not compromising on safety by choosing refurbished—you’re making a sensible financial choice.
Refurbished stairlifts can work well for users who don’t need the latest features or technology. If you’re looking for a straightforward stairlift that does the job without added frills, a refurbished model makes sense.
That said, refurbished isn’t the right choice for everyone. Some people need new equipment for reliability reasons, or their specific requirements mean a new stairlift is the only option. A good supplier will advise honestly on whether refurbished or new is the better fit.
Why choose a professionally refurbished stairlift?
When you buy a refurbished stairlift from Droitwich Stairlifts, you’re choosing a local specialist with genuine expertise.
We offer:
- Professionally refurbished Stannah stairlifts
- A thorough home assessment to confirm suitability
- Professional installation with safety checks
- Local servicing and repairs
- Ongoing aftercare and support
- Honest advice on whether a refurbished or new stairlift is right for your situation
We work with straight stairlifts and curved stairlifts, and we handle everything from initial survey to ongoing stairlift servicing and repairs.
Frequently asked questions
Are refurbished stairlifts safe?
Yes, professionally refurbished stairlifts can be safe when properly inspected, tested and installed. The quality of the refurbishment and the supplier are important factors in safety.
What is the difference between a used and refurbished stairlift?
A used stairlift simply means it has had a previous owner. A professionally refurbished stairlift has been inspected, tested and prepared for reuse, with worn or faulty components repaired or replaced where necessary.
Is it safe to buy a second-hand stairlift privately?
Buying privately can carry additional risks because the stairlift may not have undergone professional safety checks and may not include a warranty, installation or aftercare support.
How long does a refurbished stairlift last?
There’s no single lifespan. It depends on the stairlift’s age, previous use, condition, refurbishment quality and how well it’s maintained after installation. Regular servicing helps extend the life of both new and refurbished stairlifts.
Do refurbished stairlifts come with a warranty?
Many professional suppliers provide warranties with refurbished stairlifts, though the length and level of cover varies. Always check what’s included before buying.
Can you get a refurbished stairlift for curved stairs?
Yes, although curved stairlift rails are usually designed for individual staircases. A professional home survey is needed to determine what components can be reused and what needs to be made specifically for your property.
Are refurbished stairlifts cheaper than new stairlifts?
Generally yes. Refurbished stairlifts offer a more affordable alternative to buying new, though prices depend on the model, staircase and installation requirements.