Ware Online Community Forum

Does anyone on WoL have recent experience to share with companies that will supply and fit a stairlift?

The Scottparents have finally accepted they need one. It's on a straight staircase, so fairly simple and theoretically not a problem.

Advice on who to approach, and some recent costs, would be appreciated....

Hello,

Coincidentally I've been making enquiries on same subject this week.
I was put in touch with a local (but large) company called EMS Lifts, via East Herts, who were very helpful on the phone.
They also offer a rental service. We're still thinking this over so I'd be interested to hear what others decide
in this situation.
S

I heard from a WoLer privately that EMS have a really useful demo facility at Baldock (see their website) and they are brilliant with advice, but less brilliant with price. Age UK are also helpful, but according to internet chatter you need to be careful with their pricing too.

Getting a clear price seems to be the real challenge. They all want to visit and 'measure up' (I would say 'fit up') the situation. The industry appears like double glazing, snake oil and solar panel companies - prices start high and are amazingly reduced for immediate ordering. That will not happen here.

I am working with a clear spec of what is required (it helps this situation is straightforward - a single, straight staircase with a solid wall bottom to top, and space at the bottom for the seat without interfering with doors etc) and requiring a firm price before confirmation visit and final measure. I'm down to near £1000 for a fully reconditioned, 12 month guarantee, supplied and fitted Stannah) and I think it's VAT free for someone over 60 with registered disabled status.

Why such stuff has to be so corrupt I don't know - and I pity the elderly without family near.

Hi Scottman, my Mum had one fitted a year ago and has just had the first annual service. She is extremely happy with the lift and the company that maintains it. I'll get their information from here and send you a message.

My mother in law recently had a stairlift fitted by Age UK. Prices were comparable to other companies and the service was very good.

Thought I should update regarding my researches!

Thanks to Wickenlady for the first EMS recommendation. I allowed the best two companies (in terms of their initial response to my precise request) to carry out the necessary site inspection before confirmed quotation. These were EMS and Age UK. EMS did EXACTLY what I requested - they came, they measured, they quoted, they answered questions and they left. Age UK came, sold, measured, sold, quoted, sold, sold then reluctantly left.

Having decided on new equipment, and a powered swivel version, both companies offered the same equipment : the EMS quote was £1950 fully fitted and guaranteed, and the Age UK £2600.

EMS has our business ..........

Thanks for advice.