What is the cheapest way to get a stairlift?

The cheapest option is a Disabled Facilities Grant, which can cover the full cost (up to £30,000 in England). If you do not qualify for full funding, a reconditioned straight stairlift from £595 is the cheapest purchase option. Rental from £10-£15/week is cheapest for short-term needs.

Can I get a stairlift for under £1,000?

Yes. Reconditioned straight stairlifts start from £595. Acorn and Brooks reconditioned models start from £995. These come with a warranty (typically 1 year) and include installation.

Affordable Stairlifts: Every Way to Pay Less

By Stairlift Price Watch Editorial Team Published 3 April 2026 · Updated 3 April 2026 6 min read

There are more ways to afford a stairlift than you might think. This page lays out every option, from grants that could cover the entire cost to budget purchase options that can save you 40-60%.

1. Apply for a DFG Grant (Save Up to 100%)

The Disabled Facilities Grant can cover up to £30,000 in England towards a stairlift. If you pass the means test with zero contribution, the stairlift is free to you.

Who qualifies: Disabled people (assessed by OT, no registration needed), means-tested
How much: Up to £30,000 (England), £36,000 (Wales), £35,000 (N. Ireland)
Timeline: Several weeks to months

Full grants guide | DFG application guide

2. Buy Reconditioned (Save 40-60%)

A reconditioned straight stairlift costs £595-£3,100 (average £1,250-£1,500) — saving 40-60% compared to new.

Cheapest option: From £595 (generic reconditioned straight)
Branded from: Acorn £995, Companion £900, Handicare £1,000
Warranty: Typically 1 year, parts and labour

Full reconditioned price guide

3. Rent Instead of Buy (From £10/Week)

Stairlift rental costs £10-£15 per week plus a one-time installation fee of £300-£500. Rental is best for temporary needs (under 18 months).

Includes: Installation, servicing, repairs, removal
Best for: Post-surgery recovery, temporary disability, waiting for DFG
Break-even: Rental costs more than buying reconditioned after 12-15 months

Full rental cost guide

4. Claim VAT Relief (Save 15-20%)

Disabled people pay 0% VAT (saving 20%). Over-60s pay 5% VAT on supply and installation (saving 15%). No proof needed for disability relief.

0% saving on £2,300 stairlift: approximately £383
5% saving on £2,300 stairlift: approximately £287
How to claim: Sign a declaration form at purchase

Full VAT relief guide

5. Charitable Grants

Some charities provide grants towards stairlift costs:

Independence at Home — applications must come through a health/social care professional
Turn2us — online grant search tool
Barchester Healthcare Foundation — for care home residents

6. Get Multiple Quotes

Stairlift prices can vary by £500-£2,000+ for the same type of stairlift. Getting 2-3 quotes is one of the simplest ways to ensure you are not overpaying.

Get free, no-obligation quotes

7. Use the Cooling-Off Period

Under consumer protection law, you have a 14-day cooling-off period for home sales. If you feel you were pressured into a decision, you can cancel within 14 days. Do not let urgency override your right to shop around.