What to Expect on Stairlift Installation Day

One of the most common things people tell us after we've fitted their stairlift is: "That was much easier than I expected." We hear it almost every time. So if you're feeling a little apprehensive about the process, this guide is for you.

Here's exactly what happens from the moment you call us to the moment you take your first ride.

Everything starts with a phone call. We'll ask you a few simple questions:

• How many steps does your staircase have?
• Is it a straight staircase or does it have a bend or landing?
• What is the width of the staircase?
• Is there a power socket near the top or bottom of the stairs?

In most cases, we can give you a clear quote over the phone. We specialise in straight staircases with the Brooks Acorn Slimline — one of the most reliable and compact stairlifts available — so if your staircase is straight, we can usually confirm everything without needing a home visit first.

Tip: If you can send us two photos — one from the bottom of the stairs looking up, and one from the top looking down — we can give you an even more accurate assessment. You can send these by text to 07779 544439.

Once you're happy to go ahead, we'll arrange a convenient time to come and fit the lift. We aim to complete most installations within a week of your initial enquiry — often sooner.

We'll confirm the appointment by phone and give you a clear arrival window so you're not waiting around all day.

There's very little you need to do before we arrive. Just make sure:

• The staircase is clear of any items stored on the steps
• There's a power socket accessible near the top or bottom of the stairs (a standard 13-amp socket is all that's needed)
• You or a family member is home for the duration of the installation

That's it. We bring everything else.

Most installations take up to two hours for a standard straight staircase. Here's what happens:

We measure your staircase in advance of the installation visit, so on the day we arrive ready to fit. The rail brackets are positioned on the stairs themselves (not the wall), so there's no drilling into plaster or tiles.

The rail sections are assembled and secured to the treads of the stairs using brackets. The rail runs along one side of the staircase, leaving the rest of the stairs free for other household members to use.

The motorised carriage — which carries the seat — is fitted onto the rail. The seat, armrests, and footrest are then attached and adjusted to suit the user's height and comfort.

The lift is connected to the mains power supply via a standard plug socket. The charging contacts on the rail keep the batteries topped up automatically whenever the lift is parked.

Before we leave, we test the lift thoroughly — running it up and down multiple times, checking all the safety sensors, and making sure everything operates smoothly and quietly.

This is the part we take seriously. Before we go, we'll:

• Walk you through all the controls — the joystick or rocker switch, the remote controls, and the key switch
• Show you how to fold and unfold the footrest and armrests
• Demonstrate the swivel seat (if fitted) and explain how to use it safely at the top of the stairs
• Explain what to do in a power cut
• Show you the manual release, just in case
• Answer any questions you or your family have

We won't leave until you're completely comfortable using the lift independently.

The Brooks Acorn Slimline is designed to be as unobtrusive as possible. The rail is slim and sits close to the stairs, and the chair folds neatly against the wall when not in use. Most customers are pleasantly surprised by how little space it takes up.

As part of your rental, servicing is available on request — there's no fixed schedule. If you notice anything unusual at any point, whether that's an odd noise, a fault code on the display, or anything that doesn't feel right, call us straight away. There's no call-out charge and no need to wait.

If you're ready to take the next step, give us a call on 01446 710722. We're a small, family-run team and we'll always give you a straight answer.