The Stairlift Survey

The Stairlift Survey: Your Essential First Step to a Safer Home

Considering a stairlift is a big decision, and the first official step in the process is a home survey or assessment. If you're feeling a little unsure about what this involves, you're not alone! A stairlift survey is a crucial, no-obligation appointment designed to ensure you get the perfect, safest, and most comfortable solution for your home and your needs.

Here's a detailed breakdown of what you can expect when a surveyor from The Local Stairlift People Ltd visits your home:

1. The Personal Consultation: Focusing on Your Needs

The first and arguably most important part of the survey is the conversation about you. The stairlift is for your benefit, so the consultant needs to understand your specific situation.

Mobility Assessment: The surveyor will discuss your medical conditions and any physical limitations. They'll ask questions to assess your degree of movement, such as:
- Do you use a cane, walker, or other mobility aids?
- Which is your dominant hand for operating controls?
- Can you sit down and stand up easily? (This helps determine if you need a standard seat, a perching seat, or a powered swivel.)
User Measurements: To ensure a comfortable and safe fit, they may take basic measurements like your height and leg length.
Daily Routine: They may discuss how you currently use the stairs and how you envision using the stairlift.
Budget and Preferences: This is the time to discuss your budget and any preferences you have for features, colors, or upholstery.

2. The Staircase Technical Survey: Precision is Key

The first and arguably most important part of the survey is the conversation about you. The stairlift is for your benefit, so the consultant needs to understand your specific situation and will be considering the issues below:

Staircase Type: Is it straight, curved, or does it have landings/winders? This immediately determines if you need a straight or custom-made curved rail.
Length, Width, and Angle: Measurements of the entire run, especially the narrowest point. Ensures the lift and the user can fit safely, and other people can still pass by.
Obstructions: Radiators, windows, low bulkheads, handrails, or pipes. Obstructions may require a hinged track (to avoid blocking a doorway), or indicate that a radiator needs to be moved.
Clearing Space: Available floor space at the top and bottom of the stairs. Ensures there is enough room for the stairlift to park safely without blocking a door or creating a trip hazard.
Power Source: Location of a nearby electrical socket. Stairlifts run on batteries charged by a standard power point. If one isn't close, the surveyor will note this for potential electrical work.
Installation Side: Which side of the staircase offers the most convenient access and is free of major obstacles.Determines where the rail will be installed.

3. Exploring Customisation and Features

Based on the technical survey and your personal assessment, the consultant will discuss specific model recommendations and various options.

Straight vs. Curved Rail: A definitive answer on which type of rail is required.
Seat Options: Discussing power swivel seats, standing/perching seats, and different upholstery options for comfort.
Safety Features: Reviewing key safety features like seat belts, safety sensors, and how the lift folds away.
Track Options: If a doorway is at the bottom of your stairs, they will show you options like a hinged rail that folds up and out of the way.

4. The Quotation and Next Steps

Once the assessment and measurements are complete, the final step is receiving your quote.

Obligation-Free Quote: Our surveyor will compile all the information to give you a detailed, written quotation that includes the cost of the stairlift, chosen options, and installation.
No Pressure Sales: Our surveyor will provide the quote and give you time to think it over without any high-pressure sales tactics.
Addressing Questions: This is your final chance to ask any remaining questions about installation, warranty, maintenance, and the total cost.

The stairlift survey is essentially a detailed consultation and a professional home check-up. By the time the surveyor leaves, you should have a clear, accurate, and personalised plan for how a stairlift can safely restore full access to your home!