Questions to Ask Before You Buy a Wheelchair Lift

A wheelchair lift is a long-term purchase that someone will depend on daily. A few questions asked at the start prevent most of the problems people run into later.

About the need

  • Who will use the lift, and what do they ride? A manual chair, a power chair and a scooter differ in size and weight.
  • Will they use it alone or with a helper?
  • Is the need likely to change?

About the site

  • How much height must be covered?
  • Is there space beside the steps, or only the staircase itself?
  • Is the location indoors, sheltered or fully exposed?
  • What is at the top? Is there room to roll off and turn?

About the lift

  • What are the platform dimensions and the weight capacity?
  • Is this model intended for outdoor use?
  • What happens in a power outage?
  • What safety features does it have, such as an under-platform sensor and gate interlocks?
  • How is it operated, and can the user reach the controls easily?

About installation

  • What site preparation is needed, and who does it?
  • Are permits required, and who obtains them?
  • How long will installation take?

About cost

  • Is the quote itemized, and what is excluded?
  • What will concrete, electrical and any gate or railing work cost?

About service

  • What does the warranty cover?
  • Who do I call for repairs, and how quickly do you respond?
  • What maintenance is recommended?

For a business

  • Does this lift suit the accessibility requirements that apply to my building?
  • Can installation be scheduled around opening hours?

Compare alternatives

Ask whether a ramp, a home elevator or a LULA elevator would serve better in your situation.

We are glad to answer them all

See our wheelchair lifts. Call Nationwide Lifts of Southern California on (714) 228-9982 or request a quote.