Find a cheap Stairlift!

FAQ

• How much does a Stairlift cost?

  The cost depends above all on the shape of the staircase, the number of floors, the model and the installation effort. A seat lift for a straight staircase is the cheapest solution and often costs around €3,500 to €8,000. On curved or spiral staircases the rail is custom-made; a range of €7,500 to €17,000 is then realistic. Platform lifts, outdoor systems and special equipment can be considerably more expensive. A reliable price only emerges after measuring on site, because just a few bends, landings or narrow stairwells can change the amount of work involved.

• What funding and grants are available?

  Austria has no statutory long-term care fund like Germany. Funding for a Stairlift mainly comes from the support fund of the Sozialministeriumservice, which can subsidise structural adaptations and assistive devices for people with disabilities – usually up to €6,000, although there is no legal entitlement and the amount depends on available means. In addition, the federal provinces fund age-appropriate and barrier-free living through housing subsidies; in Vienna, for example, the grant for age-appropriate conversion covers 50% of reasonable costs (maximum €7,500). The care allowance (Pflegegeld, 7 levels) is a general cash benefit and is not earmarked for the installation. Important: applications must be submitted before purchase and installation.

• What is the difference between a straight and a curved Stairlift?

  On a straight staircase the lift runs on a straight standard rail. That is technically simpler, usually available sooner and often cheaper. On curved, spiral or multi-storey staircases the rail is manufactured to fit exactly after measuring on site. Curve radii, landings, gradient, parking position and usable stair width are all taken into account. This custom manufacturing explains the higher price and the longer delivery time.

• How long does installation take?

  For many seat lifts the installation itself only takes a few hours. Straight systems can often be installed at short notice if the model and rail are available. For curved staircases the rail is manufactured after the on-site measurement; this usually means a few weeks until installation. As a rule the rail is fixed to the steps, not to the wall. Major interference with the building structure is therefore usually not necessary.

• Are there used Stairlifts or rental options?

  Yes, straight seat lifts in particular are often offered used or for rent. That can make sense if the lift is only needed for a limited time, for example after an operation or during rehabilitation. Rental models usually involve an installation fee plus monthly costs. Curved lifts are far less often worth buying second-hand, because the rail has to match the staircase exactly. When comparing, you should therefore look at purchase price, rental period, removal, warranty, maintenance and possible grants together.

• How much space does a Stairlift need?

  Modern seat lifts are compact. Seat, armrests and footrest are folded up after the ride so the staircase remains usable. What matters is stair width, headroom, run-out at the top and bottom, and a safe parking position. Many systems can also be planned in narrower stairwells; for very tight staircases a standing lift, a particularly slim seat lift or a different type of lift may be more sensible. This can only be reliably assessed on site.

• How safe is a Stairlift?

  A Stairlift should suit the user’s physical situation and be operable without help. Standard features include a seat belt, obstacle sensors, emergency stop, smooth starting and braking, plus controls on the lift and at the stops. Many systems run on batteries or have an emergency lowering function so a ride can be safely completed during a power cut. An emergency call or alarm function and regular maintenance are also advisable.

• How does the comparison work?

  First you describe the shape of the staircase, the number of floors, the location and the intended use. Specialist companies from your region then check which design fits and which grants are realistic. A binding quote usually requires an on-site measurement. This allows the rail route, parking position, mounting points and possible obstacles to be planned properly. Comparison and advice are free and without obligation.

• What types of Stairlift are there?

  The classic Stairlift is a seat lift for people who can transfer and sit safely. For users who stay in their wheelchair, a platform lift is more suitable. For short height differences at the entrance or to the terrace, a vertical platform lift may fit better. For people who cannot sit well but can stand safely, there are standing lifts. The right design depends less on the product name than on mobility, staircase shape, space and daily use.

• Does health insurance cover the costs?

  In Austria, neither a health insurer nor a care fund pays for the Stairlift as a standard benefit. A permanently installed Stairlift counts as a structural measure, not as an insurance-funded assistive device. Funding mainly comes from the support fund of the Sozialministeriumservice (usually up to €6,000, no legal entitlement) and from the housing subsidies of the provinces and cities in your region. The care allowance helps with general care needs but is not tied to the installation. Always apply before purchasing.

• Is a Stairlift tax-deductible?

  In Austria, the cost of a medically necessary Stairlift can be deducted from tax as an extraordinary burden. A medical certificate confirming the necessity is usually sufficient as proof; purchase, delivery, installation and removal costs are deductible. In principle, a deductible (reasonable burden, roughly 1% to 7% depending on income) is subtracted. With a certified disability of 25% or more, or when receiving care allowance, this deductible does not apply, so the costs take full effect. Grants reduce the deductible amount. Your tax office or tax adviser can give you a binding answer on this.

• Can a Stairlift be used outdoors?

  Yes. For entrance steps, cellar accesses or garden areas there are outdoor lifts with corrosion-protected components, weatherproof electrics, slip-resistant surfaces and a cover. The installation site must be load-bearing, drained and safely usable in winter. Because of material protection and installation conditions, outdoor systems are usually more expensive than indoor ones. They can also be eligible for funding if they reduce barriers in the living environment.

• What follow-up costs arise?

  Running costs mainly comprise electricity, maintenance and possible wear parts. Everyday power consumption is usually low, because the lift only needs noticeable energy while moving and otherwise charges or stays on standby. Annual maintenance is advisable; many providers offer service contracts for this. When comparing you should therefore look not only at the purchase price but also at warranty, response time in case of a fault, maintenance costs and battery replacement.