Stairlift Terms Explained: A Glossary

Buying a stairlift comes with its share of jargon. Here's a plain-English glossary of the terms you're most likely to come across.

Quick answer: The key stairlift terms include straight and curved (the two main types), the rail (the track), the carriage (the seat unit), the swivel seat (turns for safe getting on and off), a perch model (semi-standing), VAT relief (a 20% saving for eligible buyers) and the Disabled Facilities Grant (council funding).

Types of stairlift

• Straight stairlift — a lift for a staircase with no bends. The most affordable type. More
• Curved stairlift — a made-to-measure lift for stairs with bends, turns or landings. More
• Outdoor stairlift — a weatherproofed lift for external steps. More
• Reconditioned stairlift — a refurbished, pre-owned lift, usually straight and lower-cost. More
• Perch stairlift — carries you in a semi-standing position; good for stiff knees or narrow stairs. More
• Bariatric (heavy-duty) stairlift — a reinforced model with a higher weight capacity.

Parts and features

• Rail — the track the lift travels along, fixed to the stair treads (not the wall).
• Carriage — the moving unit that carries the seat.
• Swivel seat — a seat that turns at the top so you get on and off safely on the landing. A powered swivel seat does this at the touch of a button.
• Hinged rail — a folding section of rail at the bottom that lifts out of the way to keep a doorway or hallway clear.
• Footrest sensors / safety sensors — stop the lift automatically if it meets an obstruction.
• Soft start and stop — smooth acceleration and braking for a gentle ride.
• Isolator / key switch — turns the lift off when not in use.

Cost and funding terms

• VAT relief (VAT exemption) — eligible customers (disabled or with a long-term illness) pay no VAT, a 20% saving. More
• Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) — a means-tested council grant that can fund a stairlift. More
• Reconditioned — a pre-owned lift that's been refurbished and safety-tested, sold cheaper than new.

Assessment and safety terms

• Occupational therapist (OT) — a professional who assesses your needs and whether a stairlift is appropriate, often as part of a council or NHS assessment.
• LOLER — the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations; relevant to the servicing and inspection of some lifts. More
• Needs assessment — a free assessment by your council's social care team to identify what help you may qualify for.

Not sure which type or features you need? Fill in the form below for a free, no-obligation quote from Acorn Stairlifts, who can recommend the right lift for your staircase.