Heavy-Duty & Bariatric Stairlifts

If you or the person using the lift is heavier than average, the most important number on any stairlift is its rated user weight. This guide explains what standard lifts carry, when you need a heavy-duty model, and what to ask before you buy.

Quick answer: Many standard stairlifts are rated up to about 120–127 kg (19–20 stone). Acorn publishes 127 kg (20 stone) for its standard Acorn 130. If you weigh more, or are close to the limit, ask for a heavy-duty specification. Stannah publishes one up to around 25 stone (approx. 159 kg). Always confirm the rating for the exact model you are quoted.

Do you need a heavy-duty stairlift?

We have only included weight limits that the manufacturers publish. Heavy-duty options change, so the surveyor's written quote is the figure to rely on.

What makes a stairlift "heavy-duty"?

• A higher rated load. The motor, rail and brakes are rated to carry more weight safely.
• A wider, firmer seat so you can sit comfortably and securely.
• Stronger fixings and carriage. The rail still fixes to the stair treads, not the wall.
• Powered swivel and footrest are worth considering, so you don't have to twist or reach at the top.

What to raise at the survey

• Your honest current weight, and whether it is likely to change.
• Seat width. Ask to see or sit on the seat if you can.
• Staircase width, especially if your stairs are narrow. See stairlifts for narrow stairs.
• Whether the stairs are straight or have bends. See straight and curved stairlifts.
• Written confirmation of the rated user weight for the exact model quoted.

How weight affects cost

A heavy-duty specification usually costs a little more than a standard lift of the same type. The shape of your staircase still makes the biggest difference: a curved rail costs more than a straight one. See our stairlift costs guide for typical ranges. The final cost can only be confirmed after the staircase has been measured.

Reconditioned heavy-duty lifts are rarer than standard ones. If budget matters, read new vs reconditioned and check the weight rating of any second-hand model.

Funding and VAT

If you have a long-term illness or disability, you may not have to pay VAT on a stairlift. You may also be able to get help from a Disabled Facilities Grant. Heavy-duty models qualify in the same way as standard ones.

Where to go next: Acorn vs Stannah · best stairlift brands · will a stairlift fit my stairs? · get a free quote