If you’re looking for a more affordable alternative to buying a brand-new stairlift, you may be deciding between renting a stairlift and buying a second-hand (reconditioned) stairlift. Both options can reduce upfront costs, but they suit very different situations.
This page compares rental vs second-hand stairlifts, helping you decide which option makes the most sense for your needs, timeframe, and budget.
Key Takeaways
- Rental suits short-term or uncertain needs
- Second-hand stairlifts suit longer-term use at a lower cost
- Rental involves monthly payments and no ownership
- Second-hand stairlifts involve ownership and potential resale
- Staircase type plays a big role in deciding
The Short Answer: Which Is Better?
- Rental is usually better for short-term use
- Second-hand is usually better for longer-term use
Your expected length of use is the biggest deciding factor.
What Is Stairlift Rental?
Stairlift rental allows you to:
- Use a stairlift for a monthly fee
- Avoid buying outright
- Have installation and removal included
The stairlift remains owned by the provider.
Rental is most commonly available for straight staircases.
What Is a Second-Hand Stairlift?
A second-hand stairlift is:
- A previously used stairlift that’s been refurbished
- Fully safety-checked and reinstalled
- Owned by you once installed
Second-hand stairlifts are often referred to as reconditioned stairlifts.
Cost Comparison: Rental vs Second-Hand
Rental Costs
- Monthly rental fee
- Possible upfront or setup cost
- Minimum rental period
Lower upfront cost, but costs add up over time.
Second-Hand Costs
- One-off purchase cost
- Installation usually included
- Lower cost than buying new
Better value for long-term use.
Timeframe: The Biggest Difference
| Time Needed | Better Option |
|---|---|
| A few weeks | Rental |
| A few months | Rental |
| 1 year or more | Second-hand |
| Long-term use | Second-hand |
Ownership & Responsibility
Rental
- No ownership
- Provider handles repairs
- No resale value
Second-Hand
- You own the stairlift
- Responsible for servicing
- Can resell later
Ownership brings flexibility but responsibility.
Staircase Type Matters
- Straight staircases: Both rental and second-hand options available
- Curved staircases: Second-hand may be possible; rental is rare
Curved stairlifts often require bespoke rails.
Grants & Funding Considerations
- Grants usually apply to purchasing, not renting
- Second-hand stairlifts are often approved by councils
- Rental costs are usually privately funded
This can influence affordability.
Flexibility vs Value
- Rental offers flexibility
- Second-hand offers better value over time
Choose based on certainty of need.
Advantages of Rental
✔ No long-term commitment
✔ Lower upfront cost
✔ Installation and removal included
✔ Repairs usually covered
Advantages of Second-Hand Stairlifts
✔ Lower cost than new
✔ Ownership and resale potential
✔ Suitable for long-term use
✔ Often eligible for grant funding
Which Option Is Right for You?
Rental may suit you if:
- Needs are temporary
- Recovery is expected
- You want flexibility
Second-hand may suit you if:
- Needs are ongoing
- You want ownership
- You’re looking for long-term value
Get Clear Guidance from Stairlift Guru
At Stairlift Guru, we help explain the differences between rental and second-hand stairlifts so you can choose the option that best fits your situation without pressure or confusion.
Still Unsure Which to Choose?
If you’re weighing up rental vs second-hand stairlifts, understanding your timeframe and priorities is the key.
We’re here to help with no pressure and no obligation.
