For people who struggle with mobility, stairlifts can be of great help, as they provide a useful means of getting up and down your stairs at home. However, things change and you can eventually find yourself stuck with an unwelcome stairlift.

Deciding what to do with something that is no longer needed, whether it be because of a move, a change in health needs, or if it’s been left in your property as a landlord, can be difficult. We will look at your possibilities in this blog post so that you can make an informed decision.

One option to deal with an unwanted stairlift is removal. Removing a stairlift involves dismantling it from your staircase and taking it away. This process requires an expert and should ideally be carried out by professionals who specialise in stairlift installation and removal.

There are several reasons why you might choose to remove a stairlift:

1. No Longer Needed: If the person who used the stairlift has either recovered their mobility or moved to a new home where a stairlift is not required, removal might be the best option.

2. House Renovation: If you’re planning huge renovations in your home that would interfere with your current stairlift (e.g., widening the staircase or changing the layout), removing the stairlift becomes necessary.

3. End of Life: If the stairlift is old and no longer working properly to meet your needs, removal might be the first step towards replacing it with a newer model.

Removing a stairlift is certainly not a DIY job. It requires specialised knowledge and tools to ensure it’s done safely and effectively without ruining your home. Here’s a quick overview of the removal process:

Step 1: A Home Assessment

A professional will assess the stairlift to determine the best approach for removal. They’ll consider factors such as the type of stairlift, the layout of your staircase, and any potential obstacles.

Step 2: Taking Your Stairlift Down

The stairlift will be carefully dismantled, starting from the top of the staircase and working downward. Each component will be disconnected and removed with precision to avoid any damage to your staircase or surrounding walls.

Step 3: Taking it Away

Once dismantled, the core parts of the stairlift will be transported away from your home. Depending on the company you hire, they may dispose of the stairlift responsibly or refurbish it for resale.

Step 4: Potential Refurbishment

If the stairlift is in good condition, some companies may refurbish it for resale. This involves cleaning, repairing, and testing the components to ensure they meet safety standards.

If removal seems like too much hassle or expense, there are alternative options to consider:

1. Selling: If your stairlift is still in good condition, you may be able to sell it to someone in need. There are online marketplaces where you can list used stairlifts for sale, or you can contact stairlift companies directly to inquire about their buyback programs.

2. Donation: Some charities accept donations of stairlifts and other mobility aids. These organisations will refurbish the equipment and give it to individuals who cannot afford to purchase it new.

3. Recycling: If your stairlift is no longer working and cannot be sold or donated, you may have to consider recycling it. Many parts of a stairlift, such as metal components and electronic elements, can be recycled rather than ending up in a landfill.

What you do with an unwanted stairlift essentially depends on your personal situation. There are ways to make sure it doesn’t end up in the bin by recycling, selling, donating, or carefully removing it.

Regardless of whether you’re a homeowner or a resident, having the necessary knowledge on how to get rid of an unwanted stairlift could be essential. You never know what the future may hold, so it’s always better to stay prepared.