Wheelchair Lift Installation & System Design
Wheelchair lifts, including vertical platform and step lift systems, provide step-free access where stairs or changes in level restrict movement around a building. They can be installed in homes, commercial premises and public buildings where a full passenger lift may not be appropriate for the access requirement or building.
Each installation is specified around the travel required, available space, access points, location and the requirements of the people using the lift. These factors determine the type of wheelchair lift and configuration suitable for the project.
Systems can be installed at building entrances, between split levels and in other areas where step-free access is required, with internal and external options available depending on the lift system and installation.
Why Choose a Wheelchair Lift?
Wheelchair lifts improve accessibility by providing safe, independent movement between different levels where steps or changes in height would otherwise restrict access. They are often installed as an alternative to ramps where space is limited or where a more practical long-term solution is required.
Suitable for both internal and external applications, wheelchair lifts can be specified for residential properties, schools, offices, healthcare environments, retail premises and other public buildings. The most appropriate system depends on the travel height, available space and its anticipated level of use.
Planning & Access Requirements
Successful wheelchair lift installations begin with a detailed assessment of the property. Travel height, available floor space, structural constraints, access routes and user requirements all influence the final specification.
Many systems are available with low-pit or reduced builder’s work configurations, helping minimise structural alterations while simplifying installation in existing buildings.
Where required, external wheelchair lifts can also be specified to improve access at building entrances and changes in ground level.
Choosing the Right Wheelchair Lift
Wheelchair lifts are available in several configurations to accommodate different travel heights, installation locations and access requirements.
The systems below provide step-free access solutions for homes, commercial premises and public buildings.
Classic 1m Wheelchair Platform Lift
Compact wheelchair platform lift designed for entrances, patios and small level changes in residential and commercial settings.
Executive 1m Platform Lift
Platform lift designed for public buildings and commercial environments where reliable wheelchair access is required.
Independence 2m / 3m Vertical Platform Lift
Vertical platform lift designed for greater travel heights, providing step-free access between multiple levels.
Flexstep Wheelchair Step Lift
A combined step and platform lift that converts stairs into wheelchair access, ideal where space is limited.
Easylift Accessibility Platform Lift
Platform lift designed to provide safe, reliable wheelchair access over small height differences in residential and commercial properties.
HDN Concealed Wheelchair Lift
Concealed wheelchair lift designed to integrate into floors and entrances, providing discreet step-free access when required.
Which Wheelchair Lift Is Right for Your Property?
Provide practical accessibility for a wide range of residential and commercial applications.
Suitable for travel between different floor levels where step-free access is required and sufficient vertical space is available.
Designed to provide wheelchair access over short flights of stairs while retaining the existing staircase.
Installed where maintaining the appearance of the building is an important consideration, with the lift remaining hidden when not in use.
Wheelchair Lift Options by Access Requirement
Every wheelchair lift installation is specified around the accessibility requirements of the property.
| Requirement | Typical Solution |
|---|---|
| Building entrance | Platform lift |
| Split-level access | Vertical platform lift |
| Existing staircase | Step lift |
| Minimal visual impact | Concealed wheelchair lift |
| Internal accessibility | Platform or vertical platform lift |
| External accessibility | External platform lift |
The most appropriate solution depends on the building layout, travel height, available space and the needs of the people using the lift.
Wheelchair Lift vs Passenger Lift
Many accessibility projects involve deciding between a wheelchair lift and a passenger lift.
| Wheelchair Lift | Passenger Lift |
|---|---|
| Designed primarily to improve accessibility | Designed for general passenger transport |
| Compact footprint | Larger lift shaft |
| Suitable for lower travel heights | Suitable for multiple floors |
| Often requires less structural work | Greater structural requirements |
| Often suitable where installation space is restricted | Commonly specified for larger or higher-traffic buildings |
The correct system will depend on the travel distance, available space, anticipated usage and wider requirements of the building.
Internal vs External Wheelchair Lifts
Wheelchair lifts can be installed internally or externally, depending on where the access barrier occurs.
Internal systems are commonly used between split levels or storeys within a building. External lifts are more frequently installed beside entrances, raised thresholds or changes in ground level where a permanent ramp would require too much space.
External systems must also be specified for exposure to weather, drainage conditions and the surrounding environment. A site survey will determine which configuration can be installed safely and with the least disruption to the property.
Typical Wheelchair Lift Applications
Residential Properties
Wheelchair lifts can improve access at entrances, between split levels or between floors, helping occupants move around the property more independently.
Commercial Buildings
In offices, shops and other workplaces, wheelchair lifts can remove access barriers for employees, customers and visitors without requiring the space needed for a long ramp.
Schools & Colleges
Wheelchair lifts can provide access to entrances, classrooms, stages and split-level areas while supporting the wider accessibility requirements of the building.
Healthcare Facilities
Clinics, surgeries, hospitals and care environments may require wheelchair lifts to provide dependable access for patients, residents, visitors and staff.
Public Buildings
Community centres, leisure facilities, libraries and other public buildings can use wheelchair lifts to overcome steps and changes in level where conventional access is restricted.
Wheelchair Lift Installation Process
Initial Consultation
We begin by discussing the property, the access barrier and the requirements of the people who will use the lift.
Site Survey
A site survey allows us to assess the travel height, available space, access points, structural conditions and any builder’s work that may be required.
Lift Specification
We recommend a suitable system and provide details of the proposed configuration, finishes, installation requirements and quotation.
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?
Accessibility Specialists
Our team works with homeowners, businesses, architects and contractors to deliver wheelchair lift installations across a wide range of residential and commercial projects.
Designed Around the Building
We specify each wheelchair lift around the available space, travel height, access points, intended usage and structural conditions of the building rather than applying a standard configuration.
Installation, Servicing & Ongoing Support
From initial consultation through to installation, servicing and long-term maintenance, we provide ongoing support throughout the life of every wheelchair lift installation.
What Affects the Cost of a Wheelchair Lift?
The cost of a wheelchair lift depends on the type of system, travel height, platform dimensions, number and position of access points, internal or external installation, finishes and any structural or builder’s work required.
External systems, concealed installations and projects requiring bespoke platform sizes or significant alterations to the existing building may increase the overall cost.
Following a consultation and site survey, we will provide a detailed quotation based on the lift specification and installation requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wheelchair Lifts
A wheelchair platform lift is an accessibility lift designed to provide safe, step-free travel between different levels for wheelchair users and people with reduced mobility. They are commonly installed where a full passenger lift is not practical due to space, travel height or structural constraints, making them suitable for homes, commercial premises and public buildings.
Wheelchair lifts can be installed in homes, commercial premises and public buildings. Common installation locations include building entrances, split-level interiors, raised access areas, schools, healthcare facilities and workplaces where step-free access is required. The most suitable location depends on the layout of the property, available space and accessibility requirements.
Yes. Many wheelchair lifts are specifically designed for residential properties, helping homeowners improve accessibility without the need for extensive structural alterations. They can provide safe, independent access between levels while allowing people to remain in the home they know and enjoy.
The space required depends on the type of lift, travel height and installation location. Many wheelchair platform lifts are designed with compact footprints and low-pit options, allowing them to be installed in existing buildings where space is limited. Following a site survey, we’ll recommend the most suitable solution for your property.
Yes. Many wheelchair lifts are designed for external installation, providing safe step-free access at building entrances and changes in ground level. External systems are manufactured using weather-resistant materials and specified to suit the environment in which they will operate.
Planning permission is not always required, but this depends on the property, the location of the lift and whether the building is listed or located within a conservation area. We’ll discuss any planning considerations during the early stages of your project and advise if additional approvals may be needed.
Yes. Many wheelchair lifts are designed for external installation, providing safe step-free access at building entrances and changes in ground level. External systems are manufactured using weather-resistant materials and specified to suit the environment in which they will operate.
Wheelchair lifts should be serviced regularly to help maintain safe, reliable operation and minimise the risk of unexpected downtime. The recommended servicing schedule depends on the type of lift, how frequently it is used and the manufacturer’s guidance. Planned maintenance also helps identify potential issues before they become more significant.
Have something specific in mind?
Discuss Your Wheelchair Lift Project
Contact our team to discuss the access requirements of your home, commercial premises or public building. We can arrange a site survey, recommend a suitable wheelchair lift and provide a detailed quotation for the installation.