Platform Lift Installation & System Design
Platform lifts provide safe, reliable access between levels where the travel height is relatively low and a conventional passenger lift would not be practical or necessary. They are widely used to improve accessibility within residential, commercial and public buildings while requiring less space than many traditional lift systems.
Every platform lift installation is specified around the building. Travel height, available space, the needs of intended users and the way the lift will be used all influence the most appropriate solution.
Whether installed within a new development or retrofitted into an existing property, platform lifts can often be specified with low-pit or reduced builder’s work configurations to minimise structural alterations.
The specification also takes account of the accessibility requirements and relevant standards applicable to the individual project.
Why Choose a Platform Lift?
Platform lifts provide an effective way to improve accessibility where the travel distance is relatively short and a full passenger lift would be unnecessary. They offer reliable step-free access while making efficient use of the available space.
Suitable for homes, schools, offices, healthcare facilities and public buildings, platform lifts are available in a range of configurations to suit different layouts and operational requirements. The most appropriate solution depends on the building, travel height and intended use.
Platform Lift Planning & Building Requirements
Every platform lift installation begins with a detailed assessment of the building. Travel height, available floor space, structural conditions and accessibility requirements all influence the final specification.
For existing buildings, restricted installation space, available headroom and pit depth may affect the type of platform lift that can be installed. Low-pit and reduced builder’s work systems can often provide practical solutions where structural alterations need to be kept to a minimum.
Careful planning helps ensure the lift integrates efficiently with the building while providing reliable long-term operation.
Choosing the Right Platform Lift
Platform lifts are available in several configurations to suit different buildings and accessibility requirements. The most suitable solution depends on the travel height, available space, building layout and intended use.
The platform lift systems below provide practical solutions for residential, commercial and public buildings.
Motala 2000
A compact platform lift designed for efficient low-rise access in space-restricted buildings.
p5000
A practical vertical platform lift for low-rise travel where reliability and footprint are key considerations.
Lyfthaus Luxury
Platform Lifts
Premium platform lift solutions designed for projects where finish and integration are a priority.
Hydraulic 250 Lift
A space-conscious hydraulic platform lift suited to compact low-rise installations.
Which Platform Lift Is Right for Your Building?
Vertical Platform Lifts
Vertical platform lifts provide straight up-and-down travel between levels where safe step-free access is required. They are commonly installed where the travel height is relatively low and a compact lift solution is needed.
Enclosed Platform Lifts
Enclosed platform lifts provide a more contained travel environment and are commonly specified where additional user comfort, privacy or weather protection is required.
Low-Pit Platform Lifts
Low-pit platform lifts provide a practical solution where structural constraints prevent the construction of a conventional lift pit. They are particularly useful for retrofit projects and existing buildings.
Platform lifts can be specified with greater emphasis on finishes and architectural integration when the lift’s appearance is an important part of the interior design.
Platform Lift Options by Building Requirement
Every platform lift installation is specified around the operational requirements of the building.
| Building Requirement | Typical Solution |
|---|---|
| Internal low-rise access | Vertical platform lift |
| Existing building | Low-pit platform lift |
| Premium interior finishes | Luxury platform lift |
| Greater weather protection | Enclosed platform lift |
| Limited installation space | Compact platform lift |
The most appropriate platform lift depends on the building layout, travel height, available space and accessibility requirements identified during the planning stage.
Platform Lift vs Passenger Lift
Many projects involve deciding between a platform lift and a passenger lift.
| Platform Lift | Passenger Lift |
|---|---|
| Commonly used for shorter travel distances | Can serve a wider range of travel heights |
| Primarily specified to improve accessibility | Designed for general passenger transport |
| Compact footprint | Typically requires more installation space |
| Often requires less structural work | May require a conventional lift shaft |
| Suitable for lower passenger demand | Suitable for frequent, higher-volume use |
The correct system depends on the travel height, building layout, expected usage and operational requirements of the project.
Platform Lift Installation Process
Initial Consultation
Every project begins with a discussion about the building, the access requirements and how the lift will be used.
Site Survey
A detailed survey allows us to assess the travel height, available installation space, structural conditions and any builder’s work that may be required.
Lift Specification
We’ll recommend the most suitable platform lift system, explain the available options and prepare a detailed quotation based on the specific requirements of the project.
Installation & Commissioning
Once the lift has been manufactured, it is installed, tested and commissioned by experienced engineers before being handed over for use.
Why Choose New Lift Solutions?
Platform Lift Specialists
We work with homeowners, developers, architects, contractors, businesses and public-sector organisations to deliver platform lift installations across a wide range of projects.
Designed Around Your Building
Every building has different access requirements. We specify each platform lift around the available space, travel height, intended users and operational requirements rather than offering a standard solution.
Installation, Servicing & Ongoing Support
From the initial consultation through to installation, servicing and planned maintenance, we provide ongoing support throughout the life of every platform lift installation.
What Affects the Cost of a Platform Lift?
The cost of a platform lift depends on factors including the travel height, platform size, lift configuration, internal or external installation, finishes and any structural or electrical work required.
Bespoke finishes, enclosed lift designs, external installations and projects involving additional builder’s work may increase the overall cost of installation.
Following a consultation and site survey, we’ll recommend the most suitable solution and provide a detailed quotation based on the specific requirements of your building.
Frequently Asked Questions About Platform Lifts
A platform lift is a low-rise lift designed to provide safe access between levels where a full passenger lift is not required. Platform lifts are commonly installed in homes, commercial premises and public buildings to improve accessibility while requiring less space than many conventional lift systems.
Not always. Many platform lifts can be installed with a shallow pit or, in some cases, without a conventional lift pit altogether. The most suitable installation depends on the lift model, travel height and the structural characteristics of the building.
Platform lifts are commonly installed in homes, schools, offices, healthcare facilities, shops and public buildings where safe step-free access is required between levels. They are often specified where travel heights are relatively low and installation space is limited.
Platform lifts are primarily designed to improve accessibility over relatively short travel distances, while passenger lifts are intended for general passenger transport, greater travel heights and higher levels of daily use. The most suitable solution depends on the building layout, passenger demand and operational requirements.
Yes. Certain platform lift models are designed specifically for external installation. Outdoor systems are specified with suitable weather protection and finishes to ensure reliable operation in the environment in which they will be used.
Yes. Platform lifts are frequently installed in existing buildings because many systems require less structural work than a conventional passenger lift. Low-pit and reduced builder’s work configurations can often simplify installation where space is restricted.
The maximum travel height varies depending on the type of platform lift and the manufacturer’s specification. During the planning stage, we’ll assess the travel distance, building layout and operational requirements to determine the most appropriate system for your project.
Platform lifts should be serviced at intervals appropriate to the lift type, usage level and manufacturer’s recommendations. Routine servicing helps maintain safe, reliable operation, while lifts used in workplaces may also require periodic thorough examination where applicable.
Have something specific in mind?
Discuss Your Platform Lift Project
If you’re installing a platform lift within a home, commercial premises or public building, our team can help identify the most appropriate solution for your project. We’ll assess the building, discuss your access requirements and recommend a system designed around the way the space will be used.