What does a stairlift cost in Cornwall?

What changes the price

Two stairlifts can look alike but cost very different amounts. These are the things that make the biggest difference:

• The shape of your stairs. A straight staircase with no bends or landings takes a straight rail, which is made in standard lengths. That's the most affordable option. If your stairs turn a corner, have a landing part-way up or have angled steps (called winders), you'll need a curved stairlift. Its rail is measured and made for your staircase alone, so it costs more.
• Indoor or outdoor. An outdoor stairlift is built to cope with rain, salt air and sun, and comes with a weather cover.
• Extra features. For example a powered swivel seat, a rail that folds out of the way of a doorway at the bottom, or a perch seat for people who find it hard to bend their knees.
• The person using it. Some people need a wider seat, a higher weight limit, or special controls.

That's why we won't give you a price over the phone that might change later. We'd rather come and look at your stairs first, for free, and then give you a fixed written quote.

What your quote should include

Whoever you buy from, a fair stairlift quote should tell you clearly:

• the make and model of the stairlift, and whether it's new
• everything that's included: the stairlift, the rail, fitting, and showing you how to use it
• any extras, listed separately so you can decide if you need them
• the warranty: how long it lasts and what it covers
• whether VAT has been taken off, and how
• roughly when it can be fitted
• what servicing will cost after the warranty

If something isn't clear, ask. A good company will be happy to explain. Be wary of anyone who pushes you to sign on the day with a "today only" price.

Paying no VAT

If the stairlift is for someone who has a long-term illness or a disability, it can usually be supplied with no VAT (HMRC calls this "zero-rating"). Fitting it is included. You'll be asked to sign a short form, called an eligibility declaration, to confirm who it's for. We'll help you fill it in.

Being older doesn't, by itself, qualify. The relief is for people who are chronically sick or disabled. You can read the rules in HMRC's guide, VAT relief for disabled and older people (Notice 701/7).

Grants from Cornwall Council

You may be able to get a Disabled Facilities Grant from Cornwall Council to help pay for adaptations to your home, such as a stairlift. In England it can pay up to £30,000.

• An occupational therapist usually visits first, to check what would help you.
• For adults, the grant is means-tested, so your income and savings are taken into account. For a disabled child it isn't.
• Don't order or start any work before the grant is approved. Grants aren't usually paid for work that has already been done.

Find out more and how to apply on GOV.UK: Disabled Facilities Grants, or contact Cornwall Council's adult social care team. If you're applying, tell us and we'll work with you and your occupational therapist.

Other ways to keep costs down

• Rent instead of buying. If you only need a stairlift for a while, for example after a hip or knee operation, renting can cost far less than buying.
• Only pay for features you'll use. We'll explain each option honestly, and tell you if you don't need it.
• Think about the long term. A stairlift that's easy to service and has parts readily available will cost less to look after.

Costs after it's fitted

A stairlift uses very little electricity. It plugs into a normal socket and keeps its batteries topped up.

Like a car, it needs a yearly service to stay safe and reliable. The batteries will need replacing every few years. Ask what servicing costs before you buy, so there are no surprises.