How to Fit a Stairlift in a Home with Multiple Landings

When it comes to maintaining independence at home, stairlifts are a game-changer—especially for those with mobility challenges. But what if your home has more than one staircase or multiple landings? Fitting a stairlift in a house with split-level floors or half-landings can seem complicated, but it’s entirely possible with the right planning, equipment, and expert installation.

This guide explains how stairlifts can be installed in homes with intermediate landings, multi-turn staircases, or split-level layouts, and what to consider when choosing the right solution.

1. Understanding Multi-Landing Staircases

Homes with multiple landings are more common than you might think. These layouts usually feature:

- Quarter landings: 90-degree turns partway up the stairs 
- Half-landings: 180-degree switchbacks between flights 
- Split-level layouts: Several short staircases leading to various floors 
- Separate staircases: Different sets of stairs between split or converted floors  

Fitting a stairlift in these types of properties requires custom planning to ensure safe, smooth movement from the ground to the top floor—especially where multiple changes in direction or level occur.

2. The Ideal Solution: Curved Stairlifts

For homes with multiple landings, curved stairlifts are the go-to solution.

Unlike straight stairlifts that only run in one linear direction, curved stairlifts are built with custom-made rails that follow the contours of your staircase, including corners, turns, and landings. These rails are engineered using precise measurements to ensure the lift travels seamlessly around each bend and onto the next flight of stairs.

Features of curved stairlifts:
- Custom track that hugs walls or banisters
- Smooth transitions across landings
- One continuous ride with no need to transfer
- Choice of manual or powered swivel seats for safety and comfort

Brands like Platinum Stairlifts  and Handicare offer highly adaptable curved stairlift models such as the Platinum Curve and Handicare 4000 or Freecurve.

3. Can You Use Two Separate Stairlifts Instead?

In some cases, homeowners may consider installing two straight stairlifts—one for each flight of stairs—with a stop or transfer point on the landing.

While this may seem like a more cost-effective solution initially, it comes with downsides:

- Transfer effort: The user must stand, swivel, or move across the landing to board the second lift, which is not ideal for those with limited mobility.
- Safety risks: Multiple transitions increase the chance of falls or fatigue.
- Aesthetics: Two separate rails may clutter the stairwell visually and reduce space.

That said, dual lifts can be appropriate for certain cases, such as when the landing is large enough to accommodate easy transfer and the user has the physical ability to manage two rides.

Still, most stairlift professionals will recommend a single curved rail as the safest and most efficient option for multi-landing homes.

4. Planning the Installation: Key Considerations

Fitting a stairlift in a complex stairwell involves several planning stages:

a. Home Assessment 
A stairlift installer will conduct a free home survey using laser or camera-based measuring systems. This ensures the rail can be designed to exact specifications, including wall curvature, floor height, and stair tread depth.

b. Custom Rail Fabrication 
Curved stairlifts require custom-made rails that follow the staircase layout. Depending on the brand, these are manufactured from either single or twin tubes and assembled to your home’s dimensions.

c. Power Supply 
Stairlifts typically run on battery power with a mains charging station at either the top or bottom of the stairs. In multi-landing homes, the installer may recommend intermediate charge points to keep the lift powered wherever it stops.

d. Parking & Swivel Options 
On landings or tight corners, a powered swivel seat or powered folding footrest can help the user exit and enter safely. Some models also offer a mid-landing park where the lift can rest without obstructing the stairs.

5. Outdoor-to-Indoor Integration

Some multi-level homes feature external staircases or secondary entrances. If access includes outdoor steps leading to a mid-landing or internal stairwell, you can install a weather-resistant outdoor stairlift for the first section, and a curved indoor stairlift for the rest.

Brands like Handicare and Platinum offer outdoor-rated models designed to withstand UK weather, fitted with waterproof covers and corrosion-resistant tracks.

6. Common Challenges and Solutions

An experienced installer like Multicare Mobility will be able to work around space constraints, unusual layouts, and aesthetic concerns to deliver a safe, elegant solution.

7. Cost of Installing a Stairlift with Multiple Landings

Curved stairlifts cost more than straight models due to the bespoke rail system. As of 2025:

- Straight stairlift: From £1,795 – £2,500+
- Curved stairlift: From £4,000 – £7,500+
- Multi-floor curved installation: Can exceed £8,000 depending on complexity

Although the upfront investment is higher, a curved stairlift covering all landings avoids the need for multiple lifts, reducing long-term hassle and increasing convenience and safety.

8. What to Expect on Installation Day

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- Most curved stairlifts can be installed in 3-4 hours
- You’ll be trained on how to use the lift safely
- Emergency features like stop sensors and battery backup are tested
- The area is left clean and tidy

No structural changes to the stairs are required. The lift rail is fixed to the steps—not the wall—so the installation is minimally invasive and fully reversible.

9. Summary: Is a Stairlift Suitable for Homes with Landings?

Absolutely. Whether you have one landing or several, modern stairlift systems are designed to overcome the challenges of multi-level homes. A curved stairlift provides a seamless, safe, and comfortable way to move from floor to floor—without sacrificing your independence.

With expert advice, precision planning, and tailored installation, your stairlift will fit your home and your needs perfectly.

Ready for a Free Stairlift Assessment?

If you're considering a stairlift for a home with multiple landings, the team at Multicare can help. We provide professional advice, free no-obligation surveys, and expert installation across the UK.

Contact us today to schedule your home assessment and take the first step toward safer, independent living.