FAQS
Please contact us if you have a question not answred below, or if you’d like to have a chat.
HOW MUCH WILL A STAIR LIFT COST?
Straight stairlift prices start from €1,799 (ex. VAT) fully fitted with a comprehensive warranty. Curved stairlifts are custom-built to your specific staircase, so prices vary based on the complexity of the turns.
Contact our Customer Care Team on 0818 989 353 for a free, no-obligation quote.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO INSTALL A STAIR LIFT AND WILL IT MAKE A LOT OF MESS?
Installation typically takes just a couple of hours for a straight stairlift. Curved lifts may take slightly longer due to their custom nature. Since the rail is pre-built in our factory, the process is clean and causes minimal disruption.
DOES THE STAIR LIFT FIT TO THE WALL?
No, the track is fitted directly to the steps (treads) of your staircase, not the wall. This provides a secure hold without damaging your wall plaster or requiring redecoration.
CAN OTHER PEOPLE STILL USE THE STAIRS ONCE THE STAIR LIFT IS FITTED?
Yes. Our stairlifts feature a foldable design. The seat, armrests, and footplate all fold up neatly against the wall when not in use, leaving the staircase clear for other family members to use safely.
ARE STAIR LIFTS COMPLICATED TO USE?
No, they are designed for simplicity. You simply press a large paddle switch or joystick in the direction you wish to travel. The lift glides smoothly and stops automatically when you release the switch. We also provide two remote controls so you can call the lift to your floor.
WHAT HAPPENS IF SOMETHING IS LEFT ON THE STAIRS AND GETS IN THE WAY OF THE STAIR LIFT?
Safety sensors are fitted to the footplate and carriage. If the lift detects an obstruction (like a pet, toy, or dropped object), it will stop automatically and gently. The lift will only move again once the obstruction is removed.
WHAT IF THERE IS A POWERCUT?
Your stairlift will continue to work. It runs on DC battery power which automatically charges when the lift is parked. In the event of a mains power failure, the charged batteries will allow you to make approximately 6–8 trips, ensuring you are never stranded.
ARE THERE ANY WEIGHT RESTRICTIONS?
Yes, standard models typically support between 115 kg / 18 stone and 140 kg / 22 stone. We also offer heavy-duty models for higher weight capacities. During your consultation, we will recommend the specific model that ensures your safety and comfort.
WHAT HAPPENS IF MY STAIR LIFT BREAKS DOWN?
Handicare Stairlifts from Beechfield Healthcare are very reliable and it is rare that they would break down. However, in the unlikely event of a breakdown, our engineers would be able to get to you quickly and fix the problem. We advise that all stairlifts should be serviced annually to keep them in excellent working order. Your Beechfield Stairlift is also covered by a 2 year warranty with the option of an extended warranty which we will discuss with you.
MY STAIRCASE IS VERY NARROW. CAN I STILL HAVE A STAIRLIFT?
Yes. We supply the Handicare 1100, which is currently the slimmest straight stairlift on the market. It features an ultra-slim rail and a compact seat that folds away tightly, ensuring it fits even the narrowest of staircases while leaving plenty of room for other users.
HOW LONG WILL I HAVE TO WAIT BEFORE MY STAIR LIFT IS INSTALLED?
Straight stairlifts can often be installed within 2 weeks of your order. Curved stairlifts are made-to-measure, so the manufacturing time is slightly longer. We will provide a precise delivery date during your consultation.
DO I NEED TO SERVICE MY STAIRLIFT?
Yes, we recommend an annual service to ensure your lift remains safe and reliable. Regular servicing is also required to maintain your warranty. We offer comprehensive service packages so you can have peace of mind that your lift is always in perfect working order.
CAN THE STAIRLIFT BE REMOVED EASILY IF I NO LONGER NEED IT?
Yes. Because the stairlift is fitted to the stairs and not the wall, it can be removed cleanly in just a few hours. Removal leaves no structural damage, and the small holes left in the carpet by the fixing bolts are typically invisible once the pile is brushed back.
CAN I CHOOSE WHAT COLOUR MY STAIR LIFT IS?
During our consultation we will discuss the various models of stair lift which offer a choice of different upholstery colours so you can choose one to match the décor of your home.
WILL FITTING THE STAIR LIFT IT DAMAGE THE CARPET?
No, the fixing bolts pass through the carpet into the stairs, causing no visible damage. If you decide to remove the lift later, the small holes are usually hidden by the carpet pile. If you plan to replace your carpet, we recommend doing so before installation, though our engineers can work around existing carpets easily.
HOW IS A STAIR LIFT OPERATED?
Stairlifts are operated by simple, large, up and down paddle switches on the arms, which are designed to work with minimal pressure. This makes them suitable for people with arthritis or who are visually-impaired. You simply need to gently press the paddle in the direction of travel to start the stair lift. When your stairlift is installed we will show you how to use it and the various features of your new stairlift. We are always available by calling 1890 989 353 should you have any questions.
HOW EASY IS IT TO GET ON AND OFF?
Stairlifts come with different features which included swivel seats, making it easy to turn away from the stairs and to get on or off without having to twist or turn your body. You can use the armrests to push yourself up. The armrests can be raised separately, which is especially useful if you are getting on from a wheelchair. During the survey we will discuss the various features of each model and help you choose the one most suited to your needs.
WHAT HAPPENS IF MY HUSBAND/WIFE HAS USED THE LIFT TO GO UPSTAIRS AND I’M STUCK DOWNSTAIRS?
Stairlifts come with 2 remote controls, which is used to call it back to where you are or if you want to send something up or down the stairs without having to carry it. Your remote controls can be mounted on the wall at the top and bottom of your stairs so you can always able to find them when you need them.
WILL MY STAIR LIFT BE EXPENSIVE TO RUN?
No, a stairlift is very energy-efficient and costs about as much to run as a kitchen kettle. It uses a standard 13-amp socket to keep the batteries charged. We recommend leaving the charger plugged in at all times to ensure the batteries never go flat.
WILL IT BE NOISY?
No, they are very quiet. You will be able to use your stair lift at any time of the day or night without disturbing others.
IS THERE A GRANT AVAILABLE FOR STAIRLIFTS?
Yes, you may be eligible for the Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability, which can cover up to 100% of the cost. You apply through your local county council.
Our team can guide you through the paperwork and provide the necessary documentation. VAT is charged but can often be fully reclaimed; we will provide the forms to assist with this.
SAFETY AS STANDARD
- All Handicare stairlifts have safety sensors on the power pack and footplate, these are designed to stop the lift if it meets any obstruction.
- All Handicare stairlifts have a diagnostic display so that you can monitor the status of your stairlift.
- Your stairlift will also come with a seat belt as standard for additional peace of mind.
- All upholstery options are also fire retardant.
EASY TO USE
All that you need to do to use your Handicare stairlift is to press or hold the large robust toggle or joystick in the direction you wish to travel and the stairlift will transport you smoothly and safely.
All Handicare stairlifts also come with two remote controls which can be used to call the stairlift between floors. This not only allows you to park at the top or bottom of the stairs, it is ideal for multi-user situations as the stairlift can be called between levels.
USER ASSESSMENT AND PHOTOSURVEY
Our representative will conduct a user assessment at the same time as conducting the staircase survey. During this assessment some measurements may be taken to ensure the stairlift chosen is suitable for the user.
There will also be some simple questions to see which would be the best side to place the controls, what sort of seat belt would best suit the users and to ascertain which features would be required now and in the future.
Most staircase surveys are very quick and easy to perform.
If your staircase is more complex with intermediate landings, fan stairs or a spiral for example, the survey may be conducted quickly with Handicare photographic survey systems (PhotoSurvey). This specially developed electronic system maximises the accuracy a staircase survey whilst minimizing the time needed to carry it out.
Cards are placed on and around the stairs and photographed. Specialist software measures these images to create an accurate 3D model of your staircase so the track is designed to fit your staircase perfectly.
