What is included in a typical stairlift rental package from Independent Stairlifts?

A typical stairlift rental package from Independent Stairlifts includes a suitability assessment, the rental stairlift, professional installation, safety checks, servicing and customer support for the agreed rental period. Where agreed in the rental terms, removal of the stairlift at the end of the hire period is also included. The precise package depends on your staircase, the model selected and the terms set out in your quotation and rental agreement.

Suitability assessment

Before installation, the staircase and your mobility requirements are assessed. This helps establish whether a straight, curved or outdoor stairlift is appropriate and whether the proposed equipment can be installed safely in the available space. The assessment will normally consider the shape and width of the stairs, landings, doors, available access, electrical supply and how you intend to use the stairlift.

The assessment is also an opportunity to discuss practical features, such as the seat design, controls, swivel or folding features and whether a particular model is suitable for the person using it. For a curved staircase, the stairlift may need to be made or configured to follow the individual staircase rather than selected as a standard straight model.

The rental stairlift and necessary fitting

The package includes the stairlift agreed for your home. Depending on the assessment, this may be a new or reconditioned model that meets the required safety and suitability standards. Independent Stairlifts will explain the available option and its relevant features before the rental agreement is confirmed.

Professional installation is normally included. The installer positions the stairlift on the staircase, fits the rail and associated equipment, connects the charging system and checks that the lift operates correctly. Stairlifts are generally fitted to the stairs rather than the wall, although the exact installation method depends on the equipment and property. The installer should also explain any practical requirements, such as keeping charging points accessible and allowing sufficient space at the top and bottom of the stairs.

Testing and handover

After fitting, the stairlift is tested to confirm that it travels correctly, stops safely and responds to its controls. The installer will normally demonstrate how to operate the lift, use the safety features, charge it and deal with straightforward issues such as an obstruction or a switched-off power supply.

You should make sure the person who will use the stairlift is comfortable with the controls before the installation is completed. If anything is unclear, ask for it to be demonstrated again. The operating information and the agreed rental details should be retained for reference throughout the hire period.

Servicing, repairs and customer support

Ongoing support is an important part of a rental package. The rental agreement will explain what servicing and maintenance are included, how to report a fault and which contact arrangements apply. Where a repair is needed because of normal use or an equipment fault, Independent Stairlifts can advise on the next steps and arrange appropriate assistance under the agreed terms.

Not every issue has the same cause. For example, a stairlift may not operate because its power supply has been interrupted, it has not been left on its charging point or a safety sensor has detected an obstruction. Checking the basic operating instructions can resolve some problems, but you should contact the company if the fault remains or if the stairlift does not appear safe to use. Do not attempt to dismantle or repair the equipment yourself.

End-of-rental arrangements

Some rental packages include removal when the agreed rental period ends. The agreement should state whether removal is included, how much notice is required and whether any conditions apply. If your circumstances change, contact Independent Stairlifts before stopping or changing the rental rather than arranging removal independently. The applicable notice, collection and cancellation terms will depend on your agreement.

Costs and items to check

Your quotation and rental agreement should make clear what is included in the regular rental charge and what may be payable separately. Check the following points before accepting the package:

• the stairlift model and whether it is new or reconditioned;
• installation, testing and user instruction;
• servicing, fault reporting and repair arrangements;
• the length of the rental period and any renewal or notice requirements;
• removal at the end of the rental period;
• any deposit, delivery charge, additional installation work or other applicable fee; and
• responsibility for damage, misuse or alterations outside normal use.

Structural alterations, electrical work, changes to flooring or adaptations outside the stairlift installation may not form part of a standard rental package. This is particularly relevant where the staircase or access area needs preparation before the lift can be fitted. Any work that is not included should be identified before installation, with the cost and responsibility explained clearly.

If you already have a rental stairlift and are unsure what your package covers, refer to the quotation and agreement first, then contact Independent Stairlifts for clarification. Keeping the agreed terms to hand will help you understand the support available and avoid unexpected charges during the rental period.