So you've Purchased Stairlift Warranty-What to Expect?

When you’re searching for the right home stairlift, one thing you must consider is its care and maintenance post-installation, and how you can pay for it. You need to know it can be repaired quickly and professionally so you can continue using it.

When you’re searching for the right home stairlift, one thing you must consider is its care and maintenance post-installation, and how you can pay for it.  A home stairlift is a complex machine, comprising mechanical and electronic moving parts. While stairlifts are pretty reliable, like any machine they benefit from regular routine servicing. They also have parts that will eventually wear out and need to be replaced, such as the rechargeable battery packs which power most stairlifts. If you will rely on your stairlift every day, it’s vital to have a safety net in place in case it suddenly stops working. You need to know it can be repaired quickly and professionally so you can continue using it. Here are some things to consider when choosing a stairlift:  

Will it be supplied with a warranty?  

New stairlifts (and some reconditioned ones) are supplied with a warranty from the manufacturer or, in some cases, the retailer. It’s important to understand what’s covered by the warranty and how long it lasts.   

If you’re buying a new stairlift, look for one with a comprehensive warranty that covers all routine servicing, emergency callouts, repairs. It should have parts and labor for a set period too. It should last for at least 12 months, although some suppliers offer longer warranties as an extra incentive to buy their products. 

Check if the warranty is the same whether you buy your stairlift direct from the manufacturer or through a third-party mobility retailer. Buying direct from a manufacturer should ensure you have direct access to genuine replacement parts.  

Who will work on my stairlift? 

Some of the big manufacturers employ their own network of skilled and experienced stairlift engineers, both to install new stairlifts and carry out all routine maintenance and repairs for their customers. This means the work will be professionally completed by someone who is fully trained on the product. This has direct access to genuine manufacturer replacement parts and upgrades.  

Can I get help fast when I need it?  

An important question to ask is how quickly will a repair be carried out, and can you call on the service at any time? Look for a supplier with a proven track record of prompt and efficient aftersales service, preferably one which is available to its customers 365 days-a-year.  

When my warranty expires, what can I do?  

Most new stairlift warranties expire after one or two years, but the stairlift should last far longer with proper care and maintenance. That’s why you should look for a supplier that offers ‘extended warranties’ or ‘annual service agreements’ to keep you covered after the standard warranty expires. As its name implies, an extended warranty prolongs the period for which the warranty covers the stairlift against any defect – perhaps up to four or five years – but at an additional cost. Some suppliers offer the option of an extended warranty at the point of purchase. Make sure it’s as comprehensive as their standard warranty.  

In other cases, a new warranty or an annual service agreement will be offered after the original warranty runs out. Again, this is an extra cost that you should be aware of when buying your stairlift. Some suppliers offer different levels of cover at different price points.  For example, a basic agreement might only include the annual service for your stairlift, but any replacement parts or other emergency callouts will need to be paid for at extra cost. A premium level agreement might cover the cost of all callouts, parts, and labor (in addition to the annual service), but this top level of cover will cost more.  

Don’t sign up until you’re sure!  

Speak to your potential stairlift supplier about what type of warranty is supplied with their product, what level of cover is available after the warranty expires, who will do the work, and how much it will all cost. If you’re not happy, look at what rival suppliers offer.  

An extended warranty or service agreement may be an extra cost you hadn’t bargained for, but it’s usually the best way to ensure you can get expert help quickly if you need it and guard against unexpected bills.