What are the differences in warranties between new and reconditioned stairlifts?

New stairlifts usually come with a manufacturer’s warranty that is longer and more comprehensive than the warranty supplied with a reconditioned stairlift. A reconditioned model normally has a shorter supplier warranty covering specified parts and labour, reflecting its age and the refurbishment work completed. The precise duration, exclusions and level of support vary, so the written warranty should be checked before installation.

With a new stairlift, the warranty commonly covers defects in materials and workmanship for an agreed period after installation. Depending on the supplier and package selected, it may include the main drive system, motor, controls, charging equipment, seat mechanism and other essential electrical or mechanical components. Labour and attendance by an engineer may also be included if a covered fault occurs.

A reconditioned stairlift is inspected, cleaned, tested and serviced before it is installed, but it is not a new product. Its warranty is therefore usually based on the condition of the particular lift and the work carried out during refurbishment. Cover may apply to the main working components and labour, but some items may be excluded or covered only for a shorter period.

The main differences to compare are:

• Length of cover: new stairlifts generally have a longer warranty, whereas reconditioned stairlifts usually have a shorter, defined warranty period.
• Scope of cover: a new-lift warranty may cover a wider range of components. A reconditioned warranty may identify specific parts that have been inspected or replaced.
• Parts and labour: check whether the warranty includes replacement parts, engineer labour, travel and removal or refitting costs. A warranty that covers a part but not attendance can still leave you with a charge.
• Batteries and consumables: batteries, fuses, remote-control cells, upholstery and other items subject to normal wear may have limited cover or be excluded.
• Installation-related faults: confirm whether adjustments, installation defects and problems caused by the staircase or surrounding electrical supply are included.
• Breakdown response: the warranty should explain how to report a fault, the available service hours and whether an out-of-hours callout is included.
• Transfer to another owner: some warranties apply only to the original purchaser or address. Ask whether cover remains valid if the property is sold or the stairlift is moved.

Neither type of warranty normally covers damage caused by misuse, accidental impact, unauthorised alterations, failure to follow operating instructions, flooding, power problems or other external causes. A warranty may also become invalid if the stairlift is moved, repaired or modified by someone who is not authorised by the supplier. Regular servicing may be recommended, or required under the warranty terms, so keep records of any maintenance and engineer visits.

For a reconditioned stairlift, ask what refurbishment has been completed and whether the warranty reflects that work. Useful questions include whether the batteries have been tested or replaced, whether safety devices have been checked, which parts are new, which are refurbished and whether the warranty covers the complete installed system or only named components. The answer should be recorded in the quotation or warranty document rather than given only verbally.

It is also important to distinguish a warranty from your legal rights as a consumer. A warranty is an additional promise from the manufacturer or supplier and cannot remove rights that apply when goods or services are not as described, are not of satisfactory quality or are not fit for their intended purpose. If a problem occurs, report it promptly and retain the purchase documents, installation details and warranty terms.

When comparing a new and reconditioned stairlift, consider the total protection rather than the warranty length alone. Check the cover period, parts included, labour and callout charges, exclusions, servicing requirements and the process for making a claim. A reconditioned stairlift can provide appropriate protection when it has been professionally assessed and the warranty is clear, specific and supported by accessible aftercare. If any term is unclear, ask for clarification before agreeing to the installation.