Reconditioned and Rental Stairlifts

Reconditioned and Rental Stairlifts
A reconditioned stairlift from a reputable supplier should offer the same quality as a new stairlift with significant reduction in price. Having said that if you do decide to take this there are several questions that it is worth asking your supplier. Much like buying a second hand car, you want to be certain that your stairlift is safe.

Make sure that the supplier’s engineers do a full check when they recondition it, and that the model is less than three years old. You will also want to check that your warranty that will give you at least a year’s cover. This will ensure that they have any spare parts that might be needed. After all you want to protect both yourself and your money!

If you are suffering a temporary impairment then renting a stairlift is also a good option. Renting will spread the cost out and ensures that when you that you no longer need your stairlift then it will be simple to get it removed.

The main disadvantage of rental lifts is that you will find it hard to find one for curved stairs due to the cost of installing a custom rail; having said that big suppliers such as Stannah are fully able to accommodate curved stair rentals.

Grants & VAT
How to apply for grants
If you are eligible for a Disabled Facilities Grant, your local council will be able to help towards the cost of installing your stairlift and adapting your home. A grant is awarded when the council considers that necessary changes to your home will improve your living environment and make life easier.

Visit the Direct.Gov website to find out more information about eligibility and the types of adaptations available to you. Alternatively, contact your Local Authority.

Zero rated VAT eligibility
There are two types of VAT exemption.

0% VAT If the person applying suffers chronic illness or is disabled, then this total exemption from VAT will cover them for domestic and personal use. Chronically sick or disabled means the following:

•A physical or mental impairment, which has a long term and adverse effect upon the ability to fulfill everyday activities.
•A condition that is medically certified as a chronic sickness, such as diabetes.
•A person who is terminally ill.
5% VAT relief If the person applying is over 60, but is NOT eligible for 0% VAT, they can get a reduced rate of 5% VAT, for the supply and installation of a stairlift. This reduced rate only applies to stairlifts in domestic circumstances.

Eligibility If you would like to check the conditions for VAT relief, you can view notice 701/7 VAT Relief for disabled people on the HM Revenue & Customs website. Or you can call the National Advice Service on 0845 010 9000.