Can You Rent a Stairlift?
Stairlift rental is a great option if you need temporary mobility assistance in your home. For example, when recovering from an illness or injury, or hosting a guest for whom stairs are not accessible.
If renting a stairlift sounds like the perfect solution for your needs, understanding the process and kinds of stairlifts available is the next step.
Choosing a Stairlift Model for Rent
Mobility Plus Colorado offers a stairlift rental program. Though we’re based in the Denver and Boulder areas, we proudly serve customers throughout Colorado.
Any straight section of stairs can have a stairlift rental. If you have a single straight shot or landing "turn" or "switchback," we can place rental stairlifts. If you have a curvature to your stairlifts, it may be possible, but a technician would need to evaluate your layout.
To help you select the right rental stairlift, a company representative will ask you:
The anticipated rental period
The weight and height of the user
The shape and measurements of your staircase
If you are able to visit the showroom in person, you can try out different stairlift models as well as wheelchair lifts and other mobility equipment to see what suits your needs.
Stairlift Rentals for Different Kinds of Stairs
Depending on the shape and length of your stairs, different rental stairlifts are available. There’s a solution for most staircases.
Straight Stairlifts
Straight stairlifts can be installed on any length of stairs by adding or subtracting pieces from the track. So as long as your staircase is straight, you should be able to use a stairlift rental service without any problems.
If your staircase has an intermediate landing, with or without a change of direction, you may need two or more rental stairlifts to take the user safely up multiple flights of stairs. If the staircase is especially short and the user has access to a motorized scooter, a portable wheelchair ramp rental might be a better temporary solution.
Curved Stairlifts
Curved staircases pose more of an issue when you want to rent a stairlift because curved stairlifts require customized track installation and potentially also a customized chair. Spiral staircases almost always require a custom stairlift.
In some cases, you might be able to find a curved rental stairlift that fits your stairs. However, it’s likely that you’ll need to consider an alternative. These include purchasing a customized stairlift outright (which usually can’t be returned) or refitting the ground floor of the home to remove the need for stair usage.
The Costs of Renting a Stairlift
The costs of renting a stairlift will depend on the rental period, track length, and whether you need one or more than one rental stairlift. Given a typical scenario, you should expect to pay:
A one-time fee for installation
A monthly rental fee
Additional fees for extra track length, special features, and upgrades
Depending on the company, you may also pay:
A refundable deposit in case of damage
A removal fee at the end of the stairlift rental period
With stairlift rental, stairlift servicing and repairs are usually included in the monthly cost. This is not the case when you purchase a stairlift outright. You may also be provided with a free in-home evaluation to make sure that your chosen model will fit your stairs.
Our standard stairlift rental costs $199/month on a month-to-month basis, with an initial fee of $699 covering delivery, installation, and removal. If you will be using the stairlift for longer than 13 months, it’s more cost-effective to purchase the stairlift. For further information about prices, please contact us for a quote.
Renting a Stairlift vs Purchasing a Stairlift
The question of renting vs. purchasing a stairlift mostly depends on whether it's a short-term need or a long-term solution. If you will only need a rental stairlift for a few months, then paying on a per-month basis makes sense. Stairlift rentals are also a good idea if you're not sure which model you prefer and want to "try before you buy."
However, if you are likely to need a stairlift for more than 13 months, it's often more cost-effective to purchase a stairlift rather than rent it. Many companies offer a rent-to-buy program, including us, in which half of the cost of your rental will be put toward the purchase price. If rent-to-buy interests you, ask about this option before you rent.
Choosing a Stairlift Rental Provider
With so many businesses out there renting stairlifts, choosing the one that’s right for you is a big job. If you have recommendations from friends or medical specialists, those are a great place to start.
Things to check:
The provider’s reputation
Their customer reviews
Their certifications
Their rental terms and conditions
Their prices and fees, and what’s included
Where they’re based and if they have a showroom
It’s usually best to use a local provider with a showroom. You’ll be able to have a look at their options and try some out, giving you a better idea of what you want or need before making such a big decision. Being able to speak to a trained staff member in person improves communication and provides tailored information and advice.
It’s also a good idea to get several quotes and visit a few showrooms. This will give you the best idea of what you’re choosing and if the company will be a good fit to work and communicate with for the duration of your rental.
Ensure the Safest Stairlift Experience
If you decide to rent a stairlift, follow these tips for a safe and satisfying experience:
Select the right option for the user's weight, height, and intended usage.
Try out the stairlift beforehand, if possible.
Familiarize yourself with all of the terms and conditions in the rental agreement before signing.
Ask about rent-to-buy programs if you're looking at long-term use.
Have the stairlift professionally installed.
Contact the company if you have any questions or if your stairlift needs maintenance or repair.
FAQ
For how long can you rent a stairlift?
Stairlifts can be rented for as long as you like. However, if you anticipate needing the stairlift for 13 months or longer, it is more economical to buy.
How long does it take to install a stairlift rental?
A standard straight stairlift will take approximately three hours to install. The time increases with curved stairlifts or stairs that require multiple stairlifts.
How much does it cost to rent a stairlift?
Our stairlift rental rate is $199/month, with an initial $699 fee covering delivery, installation, and removal. Costs may vary depending on the complexity of your situation, so it’s always best to contact us for a quote.
Can I rent a curved stairlift?
Curved stairlifts are custom orders, as they’re made for the size and shape of your staircase. Therefore, we only offer curved stairlifts for purchase, not rent.
What safety features are included in a stairlift rental?
Stairlift safety features generally include seatbelts, obstruction sensors, emergency stop buttons, constant pressure controls, and battery backups to keep it working during a power outage. These same features are included whether you buy or rent your stairlift. Ask our friendly staff to confirm any of these features for you.
Can I cancel the stairlift rental agreement?
Always refer to the terms and conditions in your rental agreement, or call to get a tailored answer. In general, if you cancel with 24 hours' notice before installation and the stairlift is a model we keep in stock, you won’t be charged anything. Installation costs will be charged if this has already occurred, and the first month’s rental and removal fee may also be charged.
Custom orders will need to be paid for as they can’t be used for anyone else, so think carefully before going ahead.
Can I install a stairlift in a rental property?
According to the Fair Housing Act (page 3), “A housing provider may not refuse to let you make reasonable modifications to your dwelling or common use areas, at your expense, if it may be necessary for you to fully use the housing. (Where reasonable, a landlord may permit changes only if you agree to restore the property to its original condition when you move.)”
Deciding to Rent a Stairlift
Whether you have short-term mobility needs or you want to try out a stairlift before purchasing, stairlift rental is an excellent option. Remember to make a list of your usage requirements and staircase measurements so that you receive the most tailored advice for your situation.
Stairlift rental companies are there to help you and your loved ones with limited mobility remain safe and independent in your home. Do your research, compare your options, and choose the solution that's right for you.