Straight Stairlifts: Prices, Models and Installation
By the UK Mobility Stairlifts Editorial Team · How we research
Published 28 July 2026 · Updated 16 October 2026
Quick answer
A straight stairlift runs on one rail along a staircase with no bends or landings. It is the simplest and cheapest type, typically costing £2,000–£4,000 fitted, and is usually installed in a few hours on a single visit. Reconditioned straight lifts cost less, depending on stock.
Key Takeaways
- Price: new straight stairlifts typically cost £2,000–£4,000 fitted. Reconditioned straight lifts usually cost less, and eligible buyers pay no VAT.
- Fitting: the rail fixes to the stair treads, not the wall, and installation usually takes a few hours. Acorn advertises next-day availability on straight lifts.
- Weight limits: standard models are typically rated to around 127kg (20 stone), and heavy-duty versions go up to 159kg (25 stone) or more.
- Narrow stairs: slimline straight lifts with folding seats suit tighter staircases, and some models fit stairs from 610mm wide.
- Check the bends: if your staircase has a bend at the bottom only, a straight lift may still work with a safe step-off point. A survey confirms this.
How Much Does a Straight Stairlift Cost?
A new straight stairlift typically costs £2,000–£4,000 fitted, including the survey, rail, chair and installation. Extras such as a powered swivel seat or a hinged rail add to the price. Reconditioned straight lifts usually cost less than new, and if the user has a long-term illness or disability, the lift can be zero-rated for VAT.
Find out what a straight stairlift costs for your stairs
Use the free price checker for a realistic range, then compare written quotes.
Straight Stairlift Models Compared
| Brand | Straight model | Weight limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn | 130 | 127kg (159kg heavy-duty) | Next-day installation availability advertised |
| Stannah | JOYA, Siena | 160kg (heavy-duty Siena) | Widest styling choice, 2-year warranty |
| Stannah | Sadler (perch) | Check with supplier | For steep or narrow stairs |
| Handicare | 1000, 1100 | 140kg on most staircases (130kg on very steep stairs) | Sold through dealers |
| Access BDD | HomeGlide, HomeGlide Extra | Up to 160kg | Sold through dealers |
Features to Look For
- Swivel seat. It turns at the top so the user can get off safely, and a powered swivel helps if turning is difficult.
- Folding seat, arms and footrest. These keep the stairs clear for others.
- Seatbelt and safety sensors. They stop the lift if anything is in the way.
- Simple controls. A joystick or paddle on the armrest, plus call-and-send remotes at the top and bottom.
- Battery power. The lift keeps working in a power cut.
- Hinged rail. It folds out of the way of a door near the bottom step.
Straight or Curved: Which Do You Need?
You need a straight stairlift if your staircase runs in one line from top to bottom with no turns or landings. Any bend, winder step or half-landing usually means a curved lift. The exception is a bend right at the bottom, where a straight lift with a step-off point can sometimes work.
How Is a Straight Stairlift Installed?
- Free survey: the surveyor measures the length, angle and width of your stairs and checks the top and bottom landings.
- Written quote: a fixed price with no obligation.
- Fitting: the rail is bolted to the stair treads, not the wall, and the chair is fitted and tested. This usually takes a few hours.
- Handover: the engineer shows the user how to use the lift safely.
New or Reconditioned?
A reconditioned straight lift is a used lift that has been refurbished, tested and refitted with a warranty. It costs less than new and can be installed quickly, but warranties are usually shorter and model choice depends on stock. New vs reconditioned →
Frequently asked questions
Get a Straight Stairlift Quote
A straight stairlift is the quickest type to fit, often within days. The survey is free and you get a written, fixed price with no obligation. If you're eligible, VAT relief comes off the price.
Related guides
About UK Mobility Stairlifts
We compare UK stairlift brands, prices and funding using published specifications, dated price data and official guidance. Every figure on this page links back to how we checked it.
Editorial policy