Stairlift Survey | Why It's Essential

Before purchasing a stairlift, one of the very first steps you should take is to request that one of our stairlift surveyors attends your property to conduct a full site survey. This is free and you can book a survey by clicking here: book a free stairlift survey.

Making sure you have a survey before buying a stairlift is important due to the following factors:

✔  We will determine if your staircase is compatible for the installation of a stairlift

✔  Understand your mobility needs and make sure the stairlift is going to be suitable for your requirements

✔  You will receive an official quote with no nasty surprises

A stairlift survey is usually a fairly short process but a very important step. Accurate measurements are taken which determine the preparation of the stairlift before installation in your home.

Stairlift surveys are free, carried out by a qualified stairlift surveyor and you are under no obligation to buy.

Below is a list of some of the measurements and information recorded on survey and why they are needed:

Staircase:

Design of the staircase: The design of the staircase is noted by the surveyor. This determines which type of stairlift you will need, cost and measurements required. If the stairs go in a straight line then a straight stairlift is required, if they do anything else (even if they don’t necessarily feature a curve or bend) then a curved stairlift is required.

Obstructions: The surveyor will observe the staircase for any obstructions that could impact the installation of a stairlift. Obstructions such as radiators, meter cupboards, pipes, handrails etc could determine the installation. They will also note anything that needs to be changed or removed before stairlift installation can be achieved - you will be made aware of this.

Clearing distance: One of the most important factors is how much space is available at the bottom of the stairs (clearing distance). The surveyor will look for a minimum of between 500mm - 610mm of free space. This space is required for the stairlift to park without becoming an obstruction in your home. If space is limited due to a radiator or doorway for example, the surveyor will inform you of what needs to be achieved to get the stairlift to fit. In some cases, a radiator may need moving or you may require a hinge track

Installation side: The side the stairlift is installed on is noted and this is generally a result of the above factors. If your staircase is clear of obstructions and you have plenty of space to park the stairlift, then the installation side is based on which offers the most convenient access. The wall side tends to be the most practical side. For staircases that are open plan or have walls either side, then the installation side most beneficial should be discussed with the surveyor.

Staircase length: Accurate measurements are taken to obtain the total length of the staircase. These measurements tell the surveyor the amount of track required for the stairlift to run on. The track is tailored to these exact measurements before installation in your home.

Staircase width: The surveyor will record measurements of the width in many locations on the stairs, specifically the narrowest points. This measurement is not taken from the wall, it's actually taken from inside the skirting board, stringer, or newel post to determine the available width. The width of the stairs is very important because this together with the customers measurements tells the surveyor of any potential clashes. If the staircase is very narrow, the surveyor may suggest alternative products or alterations that could help.

Stair treads: The number of stair treads are counted and measured individually. This allows the surveyor to double check their measurements by making sure it totals up to the original staircase length. The construction of the stair treads and floor is recorded for installation purposes.

Head room: The surveyor will determine the available head room of the staircase by measuring vertically from the stair tread that is in line with the lowest ceiling point / bulk head. This together with the customers measurements tells the surveyor of any potential clashes. A minimum requirement of between 1750mm - 1800mm is required for curved stairlifts and 1650mm - 1700mm is required for straight stairlifts. This can change depending on the angle of the stairs and measurements of the intended user.

Stair gradient: The angle of the staircase is recorded in multiple locations. The angle impacts the setting of the track, stairlift carriage and seat pre-installation. The stair gradient is also important because stairlifts are not suitable on staircases below 25° or greater than 65° - both extremely rare.

Power supply: Although stairlifts are battery powered, they still require a power source to recharge the internal carriage batteries. This can be a standard plug socket or fuse spur near the bottom or top of the stairs within 5 metres. The surveyor will note the most convenient power point location. If it’s too far from the staircase, you may need to get a socket installed by a qualified electrician – the surveyor will advise you on this.

Customer:

Height: Measurements of the user are taken in an upright seated position from the bottom of the spine to the top of the head. This measurement together with the vertical bulk head measurement tells the surveyor of any potential clashes. 

A measurement from the top of knees to the bottom of the feet is recorded. This will tell the surveyor the required seat height of the stairlift. Some stairlifts offer adjustable seating height or shortened and heightened seat posts options.

Depth: Measurements of the user are taken in an upright seated position from the end of the knee to the back of the spine and also from the end of the toes to the back of the user. Depending on which one protrudes the furthest, the surveyor will be able to calculate any potential clashes when compared with the staircase width measurements. Generally, knees are the part of the body that protrudes the furthest when sat, however this can be different for some users due to specific mobility issues.

Weight: The surveyor will require the weight of the user. This is very important because stairlifts have a user weight capacity limit. The weight of the user will determine which type of stairlift is suitable for installation. The majority of standard stairlifts have a weight capacity limit of up to 20 stone. Users over 20 stone will require a heavy-duty version, the surveyor will inform you of the available options.

Disability: The surveyor will ask some general questions regarding the customers disability and mobility issues. This is important because it gives the surveyor an idea if the stairlift is going to be appropriate for use. It's also important because if you do require a stairlift for a mobility or disability reason then the price they quote will be exempt from VAT. Many conditions can be considered for VAT exemption, including Arthritis, COPD, heart problems, knee and Hip replacements, Parkinson's, partially sighted, stroke, to see a more detailed list, please click here: Stairlift VAT exemption

Dexterity: The surveyor will ask some general questions regarding the capabilities of the user in relation to operating a stairlift. Hand dexterity for example is important for the use of the controls, swivel lever and seat belt - these can all be adapted to the customers preference.

Posture: The surveyor will talk through any issues related to the users sitting posture which may impact the use of a stairlift. Back and leg issues can potentially cause problems sitting in the stairlift so the surveyor may consider adjustments to make it more comfortable.

Flexibility: Stairlifts come with a swivel seat as standard which require the user to rotate the chair at the top of the staircase to get off. Rotation can be achieved by physically turning the swivel chair around (It's very similar to the movement when turning a desk chair). This movement for the majority of users is simple and easy to do, however we do find that those with spinal problems or limited movement could find it difficult. If this is the case, then the surveyor will discuss options regarding a power assisted swivel seat or running the track on to the landing if sufficient space is available.