The Dangers of DIY stair lifts -
For many who are budget conscious the lure of buying a second-hand stair lift and self installing can be strong. There is an abundance of bargain priced stairlifts in the classifieds and on internet sites such as eBay.
Whilst self installing a stairlift may sound economical it can be costly in the long run not to mention extremely dangerous.
There have been many incidents including some fatalities resulting from so called DIY stairlifts. The fact is that non-professionally installed stairlifts not only do not carry any guarantee, but in many cases insurances may become void should any accidents happen as a result of a self installed stairlift - it is always safer to use authorised stairlift companies who are insured and regulated.
Angus Long – Chairman of the Stairlifts and Access section of the BHTA said; “While on the face of it, it may seem simple enough to try and save a few pounds by acquiring a used stairlift from say E-Bay and attempt to self-install, just as one might a dishwasher. However, there the similarity ends. A stairlift is a domestic passenger conveyer, and even a straight one is bespoke to the stairs. And let's not forget these are mechanical products, incorporating numerous safety and anti-trapping devices. If, these are faulty, missing or installed incorrectly they may not work, rendering the lift a hazard."
It is a common misconception that stairlifts are costly where in reality there are home stair lifts that can suit all ranges of budgets which includes second hand stairlifts that have been checked and approved.
For many who are budget conscious the lure of buying a second-hand stair lift and self installing can be strong. There is an abundance of bargain priced stairlifts in the classifieds and on internet sites such as eBay.
Whilst self installing a stairlift may sound economical it can be costly in the long run not to mention extremely dangerous.
There have been many incidents including some fatalities resulting from so called DIY stairlifts. The fact is that non-professionally installed stairlifts not only do not carry any guarantee, but in many cases insurances may become void should any accidents happen as a result of a self installed stairlift - it is always safer to use authorised stairlift companies who are insured and regulated.
Angus Long – Chairman of the Stairlifts and Access section of the BHTA said; “While on the face of it, it may seem simple enough to try and save a few pounds by acquiring a used stairlift from say E-Bay and attempt to self-install, just as one might a dishwasher. However, there the similarity ends. A stairlift is a domestic passenger conveyer, and even a straight one is bespoke to the stairs. And let's not forget these are mechanical products, incorporating numerous safety and anti-trapping devices. If, these are faulty, missing or installed incorrectly they may not work, rendering the lift a hazard."
It is a common misconception that stairlifts are costly where in reality there are home stair lifts that can suit all ranges of budgets which includes second hand stairlifts that have been checked and approved.
