What You Should Know About Renting vs. Buying a Stair Lift

stair lift rental

Stair lifts make living in multi-level homes more accessible. Recent data from the National Vital Statistics System show that falls are the leading cause of death in those ages 65 and older, and that number is increasing each year. 

CDC data show that the age-adjusted fall rate increased by 41% from 2020 to 2021 and has remained steady. Using mobility aids and devices is a simple way to reduce the risk of falls. 

Installing stair lifts is a simple way to prevent stair-related falls and allows those aging in place to move safely around their homes with independence. 

But are stair lifts worth the investment? Or should you rent a stair lift? Today, we’ll explore the benefits of buying versus renting a stair lift and what suits your home. 

Renting a Stair Lift

If you’re considering hiring a stair lift, it’s likely because you’re unsure you’ll be staying in your home or are on the fence about making such a significant investment. 

Many benefits come with hiring a stairlift instead of buying one outright, including the ability to rent it for only as long as you need. When you’ve finished using the device or no longer require it in your home, the company will return to disassemble it and restore your stairs to their original state. 

The downside of hiring a stairlift instead of buying it is that you may require the chair lift for stairs longer than you initially thought, and you’ll be stuck paying a rental fee. 

Before renting or buying stair lifts, consider how long you’ll need the mobility device. If it’s a few short months, renting would be a better option, but if you’ll need them for a year or more, buying is often the best way to save money. 

Hiring a stair lift company is easy. Search for reputable businesses in your area and ask around. 

Independent Home Solutions installs stair lifts for different stair types in service areas in Pennsylvania and Kansas. You can schedule a free in-home assessment and get professional advice by calling 717-393-8213

Indicators You Should Rent a Stair Lift

  • You’ve had a recent surgery or medical procedure and need assistance on the stairs for a short period of time 
  • You have a family member staying with you for a short period of time who needs a stair lift 
  • You’re going to move soon 
  • You don’t want to make a large investment (between $3,400 to $10,000 to buy a stair lift) 

Buying a Stair Lift 

Purchasing a stair lift may be right for you if you plan on staying in your home as long as possible or have a loved one who needs assistance getting up and down stairs safely.

Experts in senior care, like Yelena Sokolsky, an RN and CEO of Galaxy Home Care NY, generally conclude that “for long-term needs, purchasing a stairlift is often more economical in the long run. Ownership allows for customization, and the lift becomes a permanent fixture tailored to the specific needs of the home and the user”.

Stair lifts make living in multi-level homes more accessible. Recent data from the National Vital Statistics System show that falls are the leading cause of death in those ages 65 and older, and that number is increasing each year. 

CDC data show that the age-adjusted fall rate increased by 41% from 2020 to 2021 and has remained steady. Using mobility aids and devices is a simple way to reduce the risk of falls. 

Installing stair lifts is a simple way to prevent stair-related falls and allows those aging in place to move safely around their homes with independence. 

But are stair lifts worth the investment? Or should you rent a stair lift? Today, we’ll explore the benefits of buying versus renting a stair lift and what suits your home. 

Renting a Stair Lift

If you’re considering hiring a stair lift, it’s likely because you’re unsure you’ll be staying in your home or are on the fence about making such a significant investment. 

Many benefits come with hiring a stairlift instead of buying one outright, including the ability to rent it for only as long as you need. When you’ve finished using the device or no longer require it in your home, the company will return to disassemble it and restore your stairs to their original state. 

The downside of hiring a stairlift instead of buying it is that you may require the chair lift for stairs longer than you initially thought, and you’ll be stuck paying a rental fee. 

Before renting or buying stair lifts, consider how long you’ll need the mobility device. If it’s a few short months, renting would be a better option, but if you’ll need them for a year or more, buying is often the best way to save money. 

Hiring a stair lift company is easy. Search for reputable businesses in your area and ask around. 

Independent Home Solutions installs stair lifts for different stair types in service areas in Pennsylvania and Kansas. 

Indicators You Should Rent a Stair Lift

  • You’ve had a recent surgery or medical procedure and need assistance on the stairs for a short period of time 
  • You have a family member staying with you for a short period of time who needs a stair lift 
  • You’re going to move soon 
  • You don’t want to make a large investment (between $3,400 and $10,000 to buy a stair lift) 

Buying a Stair Lift 

Purchasing a stair lift may be right for you if you plan on staying in your home as long as possible or have a loved one who needs assistance getting up and down stairs safely.

Experts in senior care, like Yelena Sokolsky, an RN and CEO of Galaxy Home Care NY, generally conclude that “for long-term needs, purchasing a stairlift is often more economical in the long run. Ownership allows for customization, and the lift becomes a permanent fixture tailored to the specific needs of the home and the user”.

You won’t have to worry about monthly payments or returning the stairs when buying. You can have it set up and get immediate access to any multi-level home. 

Buying them is also better for long-term cost-effectiveness, saving money over time. You can also purchase customized stair lifts for unique spaces, and you will have full ownership and control over the mobility aid.

Indicators You Should Buy a Stair Lift

  • You’re hoping to age in place and live in your home long term (more than one year)
  • You’ll use the device regularly 
  • You get dizzy or feel lightheaded when walking up or down the stairs
  • You have a fear of falling on the stairs 
  • You don’t want monthly payments 

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do stair lifts cost to rent versus buy? 

Buying a stair lift costs between $3,400 and $27,000, while renting costs between $175 and $400 per month.

Each situation is different, so you’ll have to calculate if it’s more worthwhile to rent or buy a stair lift for your home. 

What company can I buy or hire a stair lift from? 

Independent Home Solutions is a trusted company that uses high-quality Bruno lifts to give homeowners access to every floor of their homes. 

Is it possible to sell an old stair lift? 

Yes, if you no longer need your stair lift, you can resell it to someone you know or online. Keep in mind that the new owner should have it installed by a professional to guarantee safety. 

Will renting a stair lift save money? 

Renting a stair lift could save you money if you rent it for less than one year. But if you end up needing the stair lift long-term, it’s definitely a smarter financial decision to purchase it, as you’ll get a better return on your investment over time. 

What are Independent Home Solutions service areas? 

Our service areas in Pennsylvania include Harrisburg, Lancaster, Reading, and York.

You won’t have to worry about monthly payments or returning the stairs when buying. You can have it set up and get immediate access to any multi-level home. 

Buying them is also better for long-term cost-effectiveness, saving money over time. You can also purchase customized stair lifts for unique spaces, and you will have full ownership and control over the mobility aid.

Indicators You Should Buy a Stair Lift

  • You’re hoping to age in place and live in your home long term (more than one year)
  • You’ll use the device regularly 
  • You get dizzy or feel lightheaded when walking up or down the stairs
  • You have a fear of falling on the stairs 
  • You don’t want monthly payments 

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do stair lifts cost to rent versus buy? 

Buying a stair lift costs between $3,400 and $27,000, while renting costs between $175 and $400 per month.

Each situation is different, so you’ll have to calculate if it’s more worthwhile to rent or buy a stair lift for your home. 

What company can I buy or hire a stair lift from? 

Independent Home Solutions is a trusted company that uses high-quality Bruno lifts to give homeowners access to every floor of their homes. 

Is it possible to sell an old stair lift? 

Yes, if you no longer need your stair lift, you can resell it to someone you know or online. Keep in mind that the new owner should have it installed by a professional to guarantee safety. 

Will renting a stair lift save money? 

Renting a stair lift could save you money if you rent it for less than one year. But if you end up needing the stair lift long-term, it’s definitely a smarter financial decision to purchase it, as you’ll get a better return on your investment over time. 

What are Independent Home Solutions service areas? 

Our service areas in Pennsylvania include Harrisburg, Lancaster, Philadelphia,  Reading, and York. Schedule your free in-home assessment by calling 717-393-8213.