Second Hand Stairlifts vs New Stairlifts: Which Is Better?

When you start looking into stairlifts, one of the first questions you will probably ask is whether it is better to buy brand new or go for a refurbished model instead.

It is a very common question, and a sensible one.

For many customers, the decision between second hand stairlifts and new stairlifts comes down to more than just cost. It is also about safety, comfort, long-term value, reliability and whether the stairlift is the right fit for your home.

At Multicare Mobility, we know there is no single answer that suits everyone. For some households, a new stairlift makes the most sense. For others, a professionally refurbished or used stairlift can offer exceptional value, providing significant savings without compromising on safety or reliability, and everything they need to stay safe and independent at home.

The key is understanding the difference between the two, what matters most for your staircase and mobility needs, and what you are really paying for when you compare your options. Gathering all relevant information will help you make an informed decision that best suits your needs.

In this guide, we will walk you through the pros and cons of second hand stairlifts and new stairlifts, explain when each option tends to work best, and help you decide which route may be better for your home.

Need help deciding between new and refurbished stairlifts? Contact us for expert advice.

Why This Is One of the Most Important Stairlift Decisions

Buying a stairlift is not just another household purchase. It is something you may rely on every day, and it needs to support your safety, comfort and independence in a way that genuinely works for your home.

That is why the decision between new and refurbished matters so much.

On paper, it might seem simple: one costs more, one costs less. But in reality, there are several things to think about, including:

• Your budget

• The shape of your staircase

• How quickly do you need a stairlift

• Your comfort and mobility needs

• Your specific needs and preferences

• Your personal needs and lifestyle considerations

• Whether you want a standard or more bespoke solution

• How long do you expect to use it

The right choice is not always the most expensive one, and it is not always the cheapest either. It is about finding the option that gives you the best fit for your home and your day-to-day life.

What Are Second Hand Stairlifts?

Let’s start with the basics.

Second hand stairlifts are stairlifts that have been used before and then professionally refurbished so they can be safely installed in another home. Second hand stairlifts are fully refurbished, rigorously tested, and fitted by qualified engineers to ensure safety and reliability.

This is very different from buying an unknown stairlift privately or taking a chance on an unverified online listing. A properly refurbished stairlift should be checked, serviced and prepared for reliable use before it is installed again. All used stairlifts are checked to ensure they are in perfect working order before installation.

For many customers, second hand stairlifts are appealing because they can offer a more affordable route to better mobility without necessarily compromising on practicality. Most used stairlifts include a warranty of between 6 and 12 months covering parts and labour, and professional installation is included.

Why customers consider second hand stairlifts

• They are often more budget-friendly

• Reconditioned stairlifts are fully reconditioned and offer significant savings, typically costing 40–60% less than new models

• The reconditioned price makes high-quality stairlifts accessible to more people

• Reconditioned straight stairlifts are available for standard staircases

• They can still provide dependable daily support

• They may be ideal for standard home layouts

• They can be a sensible option for short-term or long-term use

• They offer good value when supplied professionally

A used stairlift can be a very practical solution when chosen carefully.

What Are New Stairlifts?

As the name suggests, new stairlifts are brand-new models that have not been previously installed or used. New stairlifts are manufactured to the highest safety standards and exacting standards, ensuring rigorous quality and safety checks for your peace of mind.

These are often chosen by customers who want the latest design, the newest components, or a more tailored or specialist setup for their home.

A new stairlift may be the better route if:

• Your staircase requires a bespoke solution

• You want the newest available model

• You have more specific comfort or mobility needs

• You are looking for a longer-term investment

• You want the widest possible range of options

• You wish to select your chosen model with the latest features

New stairlifts can be a great choice, particularly where the staircase is more complex or where the customer wants a very specific model or feature set.

But that does not automatically mean they are the better option for everyone.

New stairlifts typically come with a longer warranty of 2–5 years, compared to 12 months for reconditioned models.

Not sure which route is right for you? Book a free home survey.

The Biggest Difference: Cost

For many customers, the stairlift cost is the biggest factor when comparing second hand stairlifts and new stairlifts. The total price can vary depending on the type of staircase and the complexity of the installation.

The reconditioned price makes stairlifts more accessible and offers significant savings while maintaining quality and safety standards.

Flexible payment options are available, allowing you to spread the cost or choose stairlift rental if you prefer not to purchase outright. Renting a stairlift provides the same quality and safety as buying, with the added flexibility to return it when no longer needed.

Why Second Hand Stairlifts Often Appeal on Price

One of the clearest benefits of buying refurbished is that it can reduce the overall cost of improving mobility at home. The reconditioned stairlift cost is significantly lower than that of new models, making it an affordable option for many households. This offers exceptional value for customers seeking both quality and affordability.

This can make a huge difference if:

• You are working to a set budget

• You want a more cost-effective solution

• You need a stairlift sooner rather than later

• You are trying to balance mobility needs with other household expenses

A professionally refurbished stairlift can still provide real value without the higher price of a brand-new unit.

Why New Stairlifts Cost More

New stairlifts usually cost more because you are paying for:

• Brand-new equipment

• High-quality stairlifts available in a full range of models and finishes

• More tailored setup options

• The latest available designs and engineering

That added cost can absolutely be worth it in the right circumstances, but it is not always necessary, depending on your staircase and your needs.

Which Is Better for Reliability?

One of the biggest myths around second hand stairlifts is that they are automatically less reliable than new ones.

That is not always true.

Every reconditioned stairlift undergoes rigorous testing and refurbishment to ensure reliable performance. Every used stairlift is fully refurbished, rigorously tested, and fitted by qualified engineers to ensure safety and reliability. The real difference comes down to how the stairlift has been refurbished, installed and supported, not simply whether it has been used before.

Second Hand Stairlifts Can Still Be Reliable

A fully reconditioned stairlift that has been properly checked and professionally installed by qualified engineers can still offer dependable day-to-day use. These reconditioned stairlifts come with a warranty, typically ranging from 6 to 12 months, providing peace of mind and reassurance about reliability and safety. Many customers choose this route and are perfectly happy with the performance and reliability it provides.

New Stairlifts Offer Peace of Mind Through New Components

Of course, new stairlifts also offer reassurance because every part is brand new. All new stairlifts are manufactured to the highest safety standards and exacting standards, providing additional peace of mind. For some customers, that extra confidence is important, especially if they are planning for long-term use.

What matters most

Whether you choose a new or refurbished model, the most important things are:

• Proper installation

• Good servicing and maintenance

• Choosing the right stairlift for your home

• Buying from a specialist who understands your needs

It's essential to consider your personal needs when selecting a stairlift, ensuring it matches your physical and lifestyle circumstances. Many reconditioned stairlifts offer customisation options to meet individual requirements and specific needs, enhancing comfort, safety, and usability.

That is often far more important than whether the stairlift is new or second hand.

Want help choosing a safe and reliable stairlift? Contact our team for tailored advice.

Which Option Is Better for Different Staircases?

The shape of your staircase can have a major influence on whether second hand stairlifts or new stairlifts are more practical. Assessing your staircase dimensions is essential to ensure the stairlift will suit your stairs and fit seamlessly into your existing space.

Straight Staircases

If your staircase is straight, you will often have more flexibility.

Straight stairlifts are designed specifically for straight stairs or a straight staircase, making reconditioned straight stairlifts a practical and affordable option. Reconditioned straight stairlifts, also referred to as reconditioned straight models, are tailored for staircases that go straight up and down, without any curves or turns. Compatible stairlifts for straight stairs are also easier to relocate compared to those required for curved stairs, which need custom tracks.

This is one of the situations where a used stairlift can be a particularly sensible choice, because straight stairlifts are often easier to refurbish and re-install.

That means customers with standard staircases often have access to some very practical second hand options.

Curved or More Complex Staircases

If your staircase has bends, turns or landings, things can become a little more specific.

Curved staircases require a bespoke solution, as the rail must be custom-made to fit the exact shape of your stairs. This ensures a perfect fit for your staircase, regardless of how complex or unique it may be. In these cases, a new stairlift may sometimes be the more suitable route, particularly if your staircase is unusual or highly customised.

However, reconditioned curved stairlifts are also available for curved staircases, offering a tailored, affordable, and high-quality option for more complex layouts. Some refurbished specialist options may still be worth exploring, depending on the home and setup.

The key is not assuming one route is always better; it is about understanding what works best for your actual staircase.

Which Feels Better for Comfort and Everyday Use?

When comparing stairlifts, comfort matters just as much as practicality.

Both new and reconditioned stairlifts can provide the same comfort and safety as new models, ensuring a consistent and reliable experience. Many stairlifts feature a compact design that blends seamlessly with your home and can fold away when not in use, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality. Customers can also choose from a range of upholstery colours to match their home décor, allowing for greater personalisation. Additionally, stairlifts can be customised with features such as padded seats, adjustable armrests, and safety sensors to enhance comfort and safety.

After all, if you are using a stairlift every day, it needs to feel supportive, smooth and easy to operate.

Second Hand Stairlifts

A well-refurbished stairlift can still feel very comfortable in everyday use, particularly if it is a trusted model with supportive seating and straightforward controls.

Fully reconditioned stairlifts are thoroughly checked and restored to high standards, ensuring they provide the same comfort and support as new models.

For many customers, a refurbished stairlift offers all the comfort they need without feeling like a compromise.

New Stairlifts

New stairlifts may offer access to the latest designs, more up-to-date seating styles, or newer features that improve comfort and ease of use.

With a new stairlift, you can select your chosen model and tailor features to your individual requirements, ensuring the solution is perfectly suited to your needs.

This can be particularly appealing if you are looking for something more modern, more discreet, or more tailored to your preferences.

What to focus on

Whichever option you are considering, think about:

• How easy it is to get on and off

• Whether the seat feels supportive

• How smooth the ride is

• Whether the controls are simple to use

• Whether the stairlift feels right for your body and mobility needs

It's important to consider your specific needs and personal needs when choosing a stairlift, as tailoring the choice to your individual circumstances ensures optimal comfort, safety, and independence.

Comfort is personal, which is why seeing what suits you best matters.

Which Is Better for Long-Term Value?

A lot of people automatically assume the cheapest option is the best value. In reality, value is about much more than price alone. The reconditioned price of a second hand stairlift offers exceptional value for those seeking affordability, as it combines cost savings with quality and safety standards. However, it's important to note that the lifespan of a second-hand stairlift may be shorter than that of a new model due to previous usage.

Second Hand Stairlifts Can Offer Excellent Value

If you are looking for a practical solution that meets your needs without overspending, second hand stairlifts can offer brilliant value. Reconditioned stairlifts provide exceptional value for customers seeking a cost-effective solution, as they are fully refurbished, thoroughly tested, and offer the same reliability and safety as new models.

You may be able to get a reliable and comfortable stairlift at a lower cost, which is especially helpful if your staircase is fairly standard.

New Stairlifts May Be Better for Bespoke or Longer-Term Needs

If your staircase is more complex or you want a more specialist setup, a new stairlift may offer better long-term value because it is tailored more closely to your home and intended use. A new stairlift can be customised for a perfect fit, especially for bespoke staircase layouts such as curved, narrow, or unusually shaped stairs.

The better option depends on what you actually need, not simply which price looks lower at first glance.

Looking for the best stairlift for your budget and home? Get in touch today.

What About Installation and Support?

This is one area that many customers overlook when comparing new stairlifts and second hand stairlifts, but it matters a lot.

The stairlift itself is only part of the picture. The stairlift installation process is typically quick and can often be completed within a few hours, usually without causing significant disruption to your daily life. Professional installation by qualified stairlift engineers ensures your stairlift is fitted safely and operates correctly. After installation, users receive a thorough lesson on how to operate and maintain their stairlift. Installation and aftercare are just as important.

Why support matters

A stairlift should not just be delivered and left. It should be:

• Assessed properly for your home

• Installed safely

• Explained clearly

• Supported if you need help later on

After installation, a warranty provides peace of mind and ongoing support, ensuring you are covered if any issues arise.

Whether you choose new or refurbished, the experience should still feel professional and reassuring.

That is why we always recommend focusing not just on the stairlift itself, but on who you are buying it from.

When Second Hand Stairlifts Usually Make the Most Sense

In many cases, second hand stairlifts are the better choice when:

• You want to keep costs more manageable

• Your staircase is a standard straight layout

• You are happy with a trusted refurbished model

• You want practical support without paying for the latest design

• You are looking for strong value rather than premium customisation

Pre-owned and used stairlifts are fully refurbished and reconditioned to high standards, ensuring safety and reliability. Buying a second-hand stairlift not only reduces upfront costs but is also an eco-friendly choice, as reconditioned stairlifts help prevent waste and extend the life of existing technology.

For many homes, this can be the most sensible route.

When New Stairlifts May Be the Better Option

There are also situations where new stairlifts are often the stronger choice.

This may include when:

• Your staircase is curved or more unusual

• You need a very specific or bespoke setup

• You want the latest model or features

• You are planning for long-term use and want a fully tailored solution

• Comfort and design preferences are a major priority

New stairlifts can be tailored as a bespoke solution for a perfect fit, allowing you to select your chosen model to match your individual needs and staircase configuration.

In these situations, paying more upfront can sometimes lead to a better overall fit for your home.

Still unsure whether new or refurbished is right for you? Contact us for expert advice.

Why a Home Survey Helps You Make the Right Choice

One of the best ways to decide between second hand stairlifts and new stairlifts is to arrange a proper home survey.

We offer a free home survey and a free quote to assess your staircase dimensions and discuss your needs before installation. A survey takes the guesswork out of the process and helps identify what is actually suitable for your staircase, your home and your mobility needs.

A home survey helps us assess:

• Staircase layout and width

• Whether a straight or curved model is needed for your stairs

• Measurement of your staircase dimensions and assessment of your individual requirements to ensure the stairlift suits your stairs

• What will fit comfortably

• Whether refurbished options are suitable

• What will feel safest and easiest to use

This makes it much easier to compare your options properly rather than relying on assumptions or online guesswork.

Ready to find the right stairlift for your home? Book a free home survey.

Why Customers Choose Multicare Mobility

At Multicare Mobility, we know that buying a stairlift is a personal decision. It is not just about choosing equipment, it is about helping you stay comfortable, independent and safe at home.

We serve customers across the UK, including Northern Ireland, and offer a full range of stairlifts, including straight and curved models, as well as an extensive range of fabrics and finishes to suit your home. Whether you are comparing second hand stairlifts, new stairlifts, or wondering whether a used stairlift could work for your home, we are here to help you make a confident and informed choice.

Customers choose us because we focus on:

• Honest, practical advice

• Support tailored to different homes and mobility needs

• A more straightforward, personal approach

• Guidance on both new and refurbished options

• Helping customers find the best fit rather than pushing one route

Major brands like Stannah and Acorn also offer refurbished models with factory-backed support, and Dolphin Mobility stocks a range of affordable second-hand stairlifts from respected manufacturers. Companies like Stannah, Multicare Mobility, and others are key players in the market for reconditioned stairlifts.

We believe the right stairlift should feel like the right decision for your home, not just the easiest one to buy online.

The Better Option Is the One That Fits Your Home Best

So, second hand stairlifts vs new stairlifts: which is better?

The honest answer is that it depends on your home, your budget and what you need from the stairlift.

For some customers, a refurbished stairlift offers everything they need at a much more manageable cost. For others, a brand-new model is worth the extra investment because it offers a more tailored or long-term solution.

The important thing is not whether the stairlift is new or second hand, it is whether it is right for you.

To make an informed decision, consider all your options to find the stairlift that is the perfect fit and will suit both your home and your individual needs.

If you are not sure which route makes the most sense, we are always here to help you understand your options clearly.

Contact our team for tailored advice and compare stairlift options with confidence.

FAQs

Are second hand stairlifts safe to use?

Yes, second hand stairlifts from reputable suppliers like Multicare Mobility are fully refurbished, rigorously tested, and come with essential safety features such as safety sensors and emergency stop buttons. They meet the highest safety standards and include professional installation by qualified stairlift engineers to ensure reliable and safe operation.

Can a reconditioned stairlift fit on curved or narrow stairs?

Absolutely. While straight reconditioned stairlifts are common for standard straight stairs, reconditioned curved stairlifts are also available for staircases with bends or landings. Our free home survey helps determine the best stairlift solution tailored to your staircase dimensions, including narrow stairs and complex layouts.

What warranty and aftercare come with a used stairlift?

Most reconditioned stairlifts come with a warranty covering parts and labour for 6 to 12 months, providing peace of mind. Additionally, professional stairlift installation includes thorough testing and a detailed lesson on usage and maintenance. Regular servicing is recommended to ensure smooth journeys and long-term reliability.

How quickly can a second hand stairlift be installed?

Reconditioned stairlifts can often be installed within a few hours or days, depending on availability and staircase complexity. The installation process causes minimal disruption and does not usually require extensive remodelling. After installation, users receive full support and guidance to take the first step towards safer mobility at home.

Are there financing options or grants available for stairlift purchase?

Yes, flexible payment options such as stairlift rental and finance plans are available to spread the cost. Additionally, you may qualify for a Disabled Facilities Grant or VAT relief, which can help reduce the stairlift cost. Contact us for a free home survey and personalised advice on funding your stairlift solution.