There are many reasons why someone may struggle with mobility. However, one common difficulty many face is navigating stairs. Fortunately, modern technology offers a solution – stairlifts. These devices help people go up and down stairs safely and easily, giving them freedom and independence within their homes. Once customers realise they need this equipment, the question then becomes ‘should I buy or rent a stairlift?’.
Let’s explore the benefits of each option to help make an informed decision.
Why Rent a Stairlift?
A Short-Term Solution: For those with temporary mobility challenges, renting a stairlift can be the most sensible choice. You may need the temporary solution due to an injury or when you’re recovering from surgery. Temporary stairlifts offer a cost-effective and convenient way to maintain mobility around the home during this time. Rental stairlifts ensure users can access all levels of their homes without the burden of a long-term investment.
Great for Businesses: As you can imagine, this is an ideal option for commercial clients. Care homes often rent a stairlift when their passenger lift is need of repair. This allows residents to continue safely navigating all floors of the home. Some businesses may only need a rental for convenience while operating at the location. When it’s time to move, we can come and uninstall the stairlift for them.
Cost-Effectiveness: Renting a stairlift is an economical option, particularly for those who require it for a limited time. Renting a stairlift is a cost-effective option that lets you use a good-quality one without a big initial payment. Get that needed mobility support without the larger up-front cost!
Try Before You Buy: Some stair lift models are available on an “option to buy” basis. This means you can indeed try before you buy, and customers can take this option before committing to a purchase.
This will depend on the company whether or not this is available. Leodis is proud to say we offer this option on our curved stairlifts.
Are you in need of stairlift hire? Learn more about our stairlift rental.
Does Renting a Stairlift Include Repairs and Servicing?
At Leodis, we repair and service stairlifts for clients who rent them instead of buying. This applies whether it’s a new or reconditioned stairlift.
Stairlift rental companies often include maintenance and servicing as part of their rental package. Experts will quickly fix any problems, giving users and their families peace of mind. Regular maintenance ensures that the stairlift remains in optimal condition throughout its rental period, reducing the risk of breakdowns or malfunctions.
Why Buy a Stairlift?
Long-term Solution: For people with permanent mobility issues, a straight or curved stairlift is a good long-term investment. Buying a stairlift provides unlimited access to all levels of the home for as long as needed. It becomes an integral part of daily life, allowing you to once again have independence in the home.
Peace of Mind: Done and dusted and sorted with a one-off payment. At Leodis we also offer up to 3 years warranty, depending on the stairlift type. With a 3-year warranty, this would also include 2 annual services to help maintain that peace of mind.
Yours to sell: The stairlift will now be yours to own and sell as you please. You can even leave it as an additional feature to the home when it’s time to rent or sell your house.
Customisation and Features: When you decide to buy a stairlift, it’s yours to do with as you please. You gain the advantage of customising it to fit your specific needs.
Need to purchase a stairlift?
Learn more about straight stairlifts here.
Learn more about curved stairlifts here.
Can You Customise a Rented Stairlift?
At Leodis Stairlifts, we offer a lot of the same options for rented as we do for bought. So, if you want to have a stairlift in a certain colour to match your home, you still have that choice!
Certain features are available whether you rent or buy, as they may be necessary for your comfort or safety. Reputable companies offer a range of options, including swivel seats, additional safety features, and tailored designs for various staircase configurations. This personalised touch ensures maximum comfort and safety for the user.
These of course come at an additional cost. If you’re buying a stairlift, you may need to consider how this impacts the price.
Is It Expensive to Buy a Stairlift?
If you’ve decided to buy a stairlift, you’ve probably already guessed that this will be a significant investment.
However, we’ve often found some customers pleasantly surprised at the total cost for Leodis to supply and install their stairlift.
Also keep in mind that several factors do influence the cost of the stairlift. Is it new or reconditioned? Straight or curved? Does it require any additional features or customisation?
Then of course, who are you purchasing the stairlift from?
We’re proud to say we’ve been one the most affordable stairlift suppliers to the north for over 30 years.
The cheapest option for purchasing a stairlift is to buy a reconditioned straight track stairlift with no additional features.
Conclusion: Rent or Buy?
Ultimately, the decision to rent or buy a stairlift depends on individual circumstances. For those facing temporary mobility challenges, such as post-surgery recovery, renting a stairlift offers a practical and cost-effective solution. The inclusion of maintenance and servicing by rental companies further sweetens the deal.
If mobility problems are permanent or expected to last a long time, buying a stairlift is a smart investment. The enhanced quality of life and independence it provides far outweigh the initial cost. Customisation options cater to individual needs, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience.
Whether you rent or buy a stairlift, the main goal is to improve mobility and regain independence at home. Think about your situation, talk to trusted stairlift providers, and choose the option that suits you best.
We’re here 24/7 if you need to speak to one of our expert team. Call us 0n 0800 542 6045 to speak to us today.
