Selling a Used Stairlift: A Complete Guide for Homeowners

Selling a used stairlift can feel like a big task, especially if it’s been an important part of your home and daily life. Whether you’ve upgraded to a new model or a new stairlift, no longer need it, or it is no longer required, or are helping a family member move, knowing where to start can make all the difference. There are several ways to approach selling a used stairlift.

At Multicare Mobility, we’ve been helping homeowners across the UK for years with selling a used stairlift quickly, safely, and stress-free. We understand that mobility equipment isn’t just about mechanics, it’s about independence, comfort, and peace of mind. For many families, a stairlift is a significant investment, and selling or recycling it can help recover some of that value. That’s why we’ve created this complete guide to help you make informed choices, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure your stairlift finds a new home where it can continue to help someone else.

In this article, we’ll cover everything from preparing your stairlift for sale to understanding its value, finding trusted buyers, and why selling through a professional mobility company (like us) is often the safest and simplest route. Not everyone can afford a new stairlift, so the resale market plays an important role in providing affordable mobility solutions.

Why Sell a Used Stairlift?

There are many reasons you might be looking to sell your stairlift. Perhaps:

• You or your loved one no longer requires it (or you no longer require it yourself)

• You’re moving home and can’t take it with you

• You’ve upgraded to a new or curved model

• You’d like to recover some of the original cost

Many customers find themselves with an unwanted stairlift after a family member moves or their needs change.

Whatever your reason, one thing’s certain: you want to sell your used stair lift fast, safely, and for a fair price. Some stairlifts were only recently purchased and are still in excellent condition. Unwanted stairlifts can be sold or donated to help other customers in need. The good news is that, with the right approach, you can achieve all three.

Understanding the Used Stairlift Market

Used stairlifts have a steady demand across the UK. Many people are looking for a more affordable option rather than buying new, and that’s where your lift could make a real difference. Choosing a second hand stairlift or reconditioned stairlift is a cost effective way to access quality mobility aids. Second hand stairlifts and reconditioned stairlifts are also environmentally friendly options, as they promote recycling and reduce waste.

The resale market for stairlifts isn’t uniform; several factors influence how quickly your lift will sell and what price you can expect:

• Brand and reputation: Well-known brands such as Handicare or Platinum are in high demand. Stairlifts that have been professionally reconditioned often attract buyers faster.

• Stairlift type: Straight stairlifts tend to appeal to more buyers, while curved or custom models can take longer to sell.

• Age and condition: A stairlift that’s clean, well-maintained, and fully operational will always command a better price.

• Maintenance history: Buyers like to see regular servicing and documentation, which provides confidence that the lift is safe and reliable.

Understanding these points at the outset helps you set realistic expectations and plan your sale with confidence.

Step 1: Check the Condition of Your Stairlift

Before listing your stairlift, take time to check its condition. A clean, fully functional lift is much easier to sell.

Here’s a quick checklist:

• Does the stairlift run smoothly up and down?

• Are all the safety features working correctly? (seatbelt, sensors, swivel seat)

• Is it free from damage, stains, or rust?

• Do you have the keys, remotes, and manuals?

If you have an old stairlift, having experienced engineers do the job of servicing or refurbishing it can increase its value and make it more appealing to buyers.

If you notice any issues, it’s worth getting a quick service done before selling. It can improve your chances of a faster sale, and often pays for itself through a higher resale value.

Step 2: Gather All Your Information

The more details you can provide, the easier it is for a buyer (or company) to give you an accurate quote. Make sure you have:

• Make and model name

• Installation date or purchase receipt

• Service history or maintenance records

• Serial number (usually found on the carriage or rail)

• User manual and accessories

Many companies will ask you to fill out a form with these details to start the process. Having all this information ready shows you’ve taken care of your stairlift, and helps you sell your stair lift fast. Some companies may also offer a free home survey to assess your stairlift before making an offer. Fill out the form to get an accurate quote and begin the selling process.

Step 3: Decide How to Sell

When it comes to selling a used stairlift, you have a few options: you can choose to sell your stairlift privately, seek professional assistance with removal, or arrange for responsible disposal.

Sell to a Professional Mobility Company (like Multicare Mobility)

This is the safest and quickest way. We buy used stairlifts directly, handle the removal with free professional removal by expert engineers, and ensure everything is done professionally. There’s no hassle, no need to deal with private buyers, and no risk of unsafe removal. A reputable company will also offer secure payment options, including cash, for your peace of mind.

Trade-In

If you’re upgrading, many mobility suppliers offer trade-in options, including purchasing new models or trading in stairlifts that were recently purchased. This can save you both time and money by offsetting the value of your current lift against a new one.

For most homeowners, selling directly to a professional company is the fastest, safest, and least stressful route.

Step 4: Understand What Affects the Resale Value

Not all stairlifts are worth the same, and that’s okay. A few key factors will determine your resale value:

• Brand reputation: Premium brands hold their value longer.

• Model and type: Straight models are easier to reinstall and more commonly available, making them a popular choice for affordable mobility solutions. Curved stairlifts and back stairlifts are often custom-made for specific staircases, which can affect their resale value and make them more challenging to sell or remove compared to a straight model.

• Age and usage: The newer and less used your stairlift, the better.

• Condition: Clean, well-maintained units are far more appealing.

• Availability of parts: If parts are still being manufactured, resale is simpler.

Most manufacturers do not offer buy-back services, so resale is typically handled by third-party companies with expertise in various stairlift configurations.

If you’re unsure what your stairlift is worth, we can provide a free valuation. Just contact us, and one of our friendly team members will guide you through the process.

Step 5: Arrange Safe Removal

One of the most important steps in safe stairlift selling is ensuring professional removal. Stairlifts are heavy, electrical, and attached to your staircase, so DIY removal isn’t recommended.

Our engineers at Multicare Mobility are fully trained to remove all types of stairlifts quickly and safely. We take care to protect your home, safeguard your property during the job, dismantle the system properly, and leave your staircase as good as new.

By letting professionals assist with the removal, you not only avoid damage or injury but also make your stairlift more valuable to future buyers (since it’s been uninstalled correctly).

Step 6: Keep the Sale Safe and Legitimate

Unfortunately, online scams and unreliable buyers do exist in the second-hand market. To protect yourself:

• Always confirm the buyer’s identity before agreeing to anything.

• Avoid sending personal or bank details to unverified individuals.

• Never allow unqualified people to remove your stairlift.

• If something feels off, trust your instincts and seek professional advice.

When you sell through Multicare Mobility, you never have to worry about these issues; everything is handled by our trusted in-house team, from valuation to removal and payment.

Step 7: Get a Fair Price, Without the Hassle

At Multicare Mobility, we believe in fair, transparent pricing. We assess each stairlift individually, based on its brand, condition, and age. You’ll receive a clear quote with no hidden fees and no pressure to accept.

Once agreed, we’ll arrange a convenient collection date, handle the removal, and issue payment promptly. Your stairlift will then be sold to help someone else regain mobility. It’s that simple.

Our goal is to make the process as stress-free as possible, because we know how important your stairlift has been to you.

The Brands We Sell (and Buy Back)

We work with a wide range of trusted stairlift brands, each known for reliability, comfort, and safety. Some brands also specialise in hand stairlifts and other mobility aids, offering cost-effective solutions for individuals with limited mobility. Here’s an overview of some of the popular names we handle:

Whether you are looking for a hand stairlift, a powered model, or other mobility aids, there are options available to suit your needs.

Platinum Stairlifts

British-built and highly regarded for quality engineering, Platinum stairlifts are custom-made to fit your staircase precisely. They’re known for smooth rides, sleek designs, and intuitive controls.

Key features:

• Tailored design for curved or straight stairs

• Smooth start/stop technology

• Compact rail system to maximise space

• Energy-efficient operation

Multicare Stairlifts

Our range of stairlifts combines comfort, safety, and excellent value for money. We carefully select models that are reliable, quiet, and easy to use, suitable for most homes across the UK.

Key features:

• Trusted reliability and affordability

• Sleek, minimal design

• Easy-to-use controls and safety features

• Backed by our full aftercare service

Handicare Stairlifts

Handicare is one of the most popular brands in the UK, known for innovation and user-friendly designs. Their stairlifts are versatile, durable, and suited to both straight and curved staircases.

Key features:

• Compact design ideal for narrow stairs

• Multiple seat and rail colour options

• Optional powered features

• High safety standards and long warranties

Access BDD Stairlifts

Access BDD combines style with engineering excellence. Their stairlifts are built for smoothness and comfort, with ergonomic seating and advanced safety systems.

Key features:

• Soft start and stop motion

• Custom curved tracks available

• Ergonomic, easy-to-clean seating

• Quiet operation

Acorn Stairlifts

A household name, Acorn stairlifts are designed for simplicity and reliability. They’re quick to install and ideal for most straight staircases.

Key features:

• Fast installation

• Battery-powered operation (works during power cuts)

• Compact and foldable seat design

• Proven performance and durability

Brooks Stairlifts

As one of the longest-established brands, Brooks stairlifts are valued for their dependability and comfort. They’re simple to use and come with a long service life.

Key features:

• Simple, intuitive controls

• Smooth, quiet ride

• Reliable safety sensors

• Sturdy build with minimal maintenance

Bruno Stairlifts

Bruno stairlifts are known for their luxury feel and precision engineering. Made with high-quality materials, they provide a premium experience with excellent long-term reliability.

Key features:

• Ergonomic design for maximum comfort

• Smooth ride and quiet motor

• Built for durability and stability

• Available for both straight and curved staircases

If you currently own one of these brands, we can provide a professional valuation and offer for your stairlift, even if it’s several years old.

How Multicare Mobility Simplifies Your Stairlift Sale

We’ve been supporting UK homeowners with mobility solutions for over 35 years, so we know how to make the selling process smooth, transparent, and worry-free.

When you choose to sell through us, you can expect:

• Fair valuation: No guesswork, just honest pricing based on your stairlift’s true condition.

• Fast turnaround: We aim to complete sales and removals as quickly as possible.

• Safe, professional removal: No damage, no mess, no stress.

• Environmentally responsible reuse: We refurbish or recycle parts to minimise waste.

• Friendly, experienced team: We’re always here to answer your questions.

• Complete peace of mind: As a reputable company, we ensure our customers receive reliable service and trustworthy support throughout the process.

Selling your used stairlift shouldn’t feel like hard work, and with our help, it doesn’t have to.

Get the Best Value from Your Stairlift

Selling a stairlift can seem daunting at first, but with the right guidance and support, it’s a straightforward process. By preparing your stairlift properly, knowing its value, and choosing a trusted mobility company, you can sell quickly, safely, and with total confidence.

At Multicare Mobility, we make it our mission to take the stress out of selling. From the moment you contact us, we’ll handle everything, from your free valuation to safe removal and prompt payment.

So, if you’re ready to move on or upgrade, let’s make it easy together.

Get in touch today for a free, no-obligation quote or to speak with one of our friendly team members.