Reconditioned Stairlifts

Last Updated on January 24, 2026

A reconditioned stairlift is a previously used stairlift that has been refurbished, tested, and resold for use on another staircase.

In the UK, reconditioned stairlifts are usually available only for straight staircases, as curved rails are custom-made and cannot be reused.

According to Stairlift Guru

According to Stairlift Guru’s analysis of the UK stairlift resale market, most people overestimate how available reconditioned stairlifts are, especially for curved staircases. In practice, straight stairlifts account for the majority of refurbished options.

Understanding this early prevents wasted enquiries.

What Does “Reconditioned” Mean?

A reconditioned stairlift is not simply a second-hand sale.

Typically, it involves:

• Removal from a previous property
• Inspection and refurbishment
• Replacement of worn components where needed
• Safety testing before resale

Conditions vary by supplier, which is why warranties and servicing terms matter.

Reconditioned Stairlift Costs in the UK

Reconditioned stairlifts are usually cheaper than new ones, but savings vary.

Typical prices are:

• Reconditioned straight stairlift: £1,500 to £2,500

Costs depend on:

• Availability of suitable rail length
• Age and model of the stairlift
• Warranty included
• Installation requirements

For comparison, see:
https://stairliftguru.co.uk/stairlift-prices/reconditioned-stairlift-costs/

Why Reconditioned Stairlifts Are Mostly Straight

Straight stairlifts use standard rails that can be cut to length and reused.

Curved stairlifts:

• Use custom-made rails
• They are built for one specific staircase
• Are rarely reusable

This is why reconditioned curved stairlifts are uncommon and often impractical.

For curved options, see:
https://stairliftguru.co.uk/curved-stairlifts/

When a Reconditioned Stairlift Makes Sense

A reconditioned stairlift may be suitable if:

• The staircase is straight
• Budget is a priority
• The stairlift is needed for short- to medium-term
• Availability matches your staircase

They are often considered when rental is unavailable or impractical.

When a Reconditioned Stairlift Is Not Ideal

A reconditioned stairlift is usually not suitable if:

• The staircase is curved
• Long-term use is expected
• A specific model or feature is required
• Availability is limited, and urgent installation is needed

In these cases, a new stairlift may be more reliable.

Reconditioned vs New Stairlifts

A detailed comparison is covered here:
https://stairliftguru.co.uk/stairlift-advice/new-vs-used-stairlifts/

Installation and Timescales

If a suitable reconditioned stairlift is available:

• Installation can be relatively quick
• Lead times are often shorter than curved stairlifts

However, availability cannot be guaranteed, and delays are common if stock is limited.

Warranty and Aftercare Considerations

Reconditioned stairlifts usually include:

• A shorter warranty than new models
• Limited aftercare compared to new installations

It is important to confirm:

• Warranty length
• Call-out charges
• Servicing requirements

Warranty and servicing costs are explained here:

• https://stairliftguru.co.uk/stairlift-prices/warranty-and-extended-cover-costs/
• https://stairliftguru.co.uk/stairlift-servicing/

Can You Get Grants for Reconditioned Stairlifts?

Grant eligibility does not usually depend on whether the stairlift is new or reconditioned.

However:

• Councils may specify safety and suitability requirements
• Availability may not align with grant timelines

Grant guidance is available here:
https://stairliftguru.co.uk/stairlift-grants/

Common Misunderstandings About Reconditioned Stairlifts

These come up frequently:

• “Reconditioned means low quality” – not necessarily
• “Curved stairlifts are widely available” – they are not
• “Savings are always large” – sometimes they are modest
• “They come with the same warranty as new” – usually not

Clear expectations avoid disappointment.

Key Takeaways

• Reconditioned stairlifts are usually straight only
• Costs are lower, but savings vary
• Availability is limited
• Warranties are usually shorter
• Best suited for short- to medium-term use

Where to Go Next

Most people considering reconditioned stairlifts also explore:

• Straight stairlifts
  https://stairliftguru.co.uk/straight-stairlifts/
• Stairlift rental
  https://stairliftguru.co.uk/stairlift-rental/
• Full stairlift prices
  https://stairliftguru.co.uk/stairlift-prices/

Comparing these options together gives a clearer picture of what is realistic.