Arrange support for the equipment and the site.

A stairlift carries a seated user along a rail fitted to a staircase. Straight and curved rails, different seats and powered features create different service requirements. An inclined platform lift intended for a wheelchair is different equipment; see our platform lift support page if that describes your installation.

For a commercial or managed site, the first step is to identify the make, model and configuration, then understand who is responsible for the equipment and how it is used. We assess support before confirming attendance; availability of technical information and suitable parts can affect the options.

Tell us whether users operate the lift independently or with staff assistance, and what happens if it becomes unavailable. We can then discuss the work with the appropriate site contact.

Describe what happens when it stops.

A stairlift that will not travel may be responding to a protective device rather than a failed motor. Depending on the model, movement can be affected by a seat that has not returned to its travel position, a sensitive edge detecting an obstruction or another monitored condition.

On battery-powered equipment, the battery, charger and charging contacts also form part of the investigation. A lift that works briefly after charging may need a different investigation from one that stops at the same rail position every time. Features and charging arrangements vary; Handicare’s model information gives an example of how these parts fit together.

Record the displayed message and where the lift stops. Follow the manufacturer’s user instructions for ordinary operation, but do not bypass a safety edge, seat interlock or other protective device. Report damage, unexpected movement or a change in stopping behaviour promptly.

Plan maintenance and continuity of access.

Maintenance planning should account for the model, use, condition and manufacturer’s recommendations. The rail and drive, seat and swivel arrangement, controls, charging system and safety devices need attention appropriate to the installation.

At a managed site, clear responsibilities are as useful as a service date. Staff should know who receives fault reports, who can authorise work and what alternative arrangements apply while the equipment is unavailable. Repairs should be coordinated with the people responsible for users’ access and care.

A stairlift’s continued operation does not by itself establish that it is suitable for every user. Changes in users’ needs or in how the site operates should be discussed with the responsible care or access team, alongside any assessment of the equipment.

Keep maintenance and examination records clear.

Service findings, reported faults and examination records help the person managing the site follow up defects and recognise recurring problems. Keep a record of the lift’s identification and the contact responsible for arranging support.

HSE’s stairlift guidance distinguishes equipment used at work from other use and explains that businesses can still have responsibilities for users’ safety where LOLER does not apply. The appropriate examination arrangements should be confirmed for the installation and its use.

Forge does not carry out LOLER examinations in-house. We can help arrange an independent provider or introduce you directly. For maintenance or a fault, send the details below or call 020 7097 8588. Include the managed-site context so we can confirm that the enquiry is within our scope.

Start with your installation

What to send us.

  • Site postcode, type of managed premises and organisation responsible.
  • Stairlift make, model, serial number and straight or curved rail.
  • Fault message, stopping position and recent changes in operation.
  • Service and examination records, site contact and access arrangements.

Existing reports and photographs from safe, accessible areas are useful. You do not need to open equipment or enter a lift shaft to make an enquiry.

Send an enquiry

Before you call

Common questions.

Do you repair stairlifts in private homes?

No. Forge’s stairlift scope is commercial and managed environments. We do not support private-home or residential stairlift installations; contact the manufacturer or a provider offering domestic stairlift support.

Can a housing association or facilities team enquire?

Yes, for equipment in a commercial or managed setting within our scope. Tell us where it is installed and how it is used. The organisation’s involvement alone does not bring a private-home stairlift within our service.

Can you assess an older or unfamiliar stairlift?

Send the model details and available records first. We assess support case by case, including access to technical information and suitable parts, before confirming whether we can help with the maintenance or repair.

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