Stairlift rental/renting is a great option if you need temporary mobility assistance in your home—for example while recovering from an illness or injury or hosting a houseguest with limited mobility. If renting a stairlift sounds like the perfect option for your situation, it's important to understand how the process works and the kinds of stairlift rentals that are available.

Stairlift Rentals 101

Choosing a Model

Mobility Plus offers a stairlift rental program with several rental options to choose from. Though we’re based in the Denver area, we proudly serve customers throughout Colorado.

Usually, rental stairlifts are straight stairlifts (for straight staircases), although some curved options may also be available.

To help you select the right rental stair lift, a company representative will ask you:

The anticipated rental period
The weight and height of the user
The shape and measurements of your staircase
Additional features that might interest you—such as a remote control, a power swivel seat, or a retractable rail

If you can visit the showroom in person, you may be able to try out different stairlift models as well as wheelchair lifts and other mobility equipment.

Stairlift Rentals for Different Kinds of Stairs

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 or power wheelchair, consider portable wheelchair ramp rental instead.

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, in most cases, you will need to consider an alternative such as purchasing a customized stairlift outright (you usually can’t return or resell these) or refitting the ground floor of the home.

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 can 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, which 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.

Renting a Stairlift vs. Purchasing a Stairlift

The question of renting vs. purchasing a stairlift mostly depends on how long you intend to use the stairlift. 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 in which part of your monthly rental cost can be credited towards the purchase price. If rent-to-buy is an option that interests you, it's best to ask about this option before you sign the rental contract.

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 before signing.
Ask about rent-to-buy programs if you're looking at long-term use.
Have the stairlift professionally installed (as recommended by the Accessibility Equipment Manufacturer’s Association).
Contact the company if you have any questions or your stairlift needs maintenance or repair.

Stairlift rental companies are there to help you and your loved ones remain safe and independent in your home. Do your research, compare your options, and choose the solution that's right for you.

Can You Rent a Stairlift?