Renting vs Buying a Stairlift in Vancouver: Which Makes Sense?

A stairlift chair on a rug in a bright entryway beside a carpeted staircase

Some people need a stairlift for a few weeks after surgery. Others need one for the rest of their time at home. The right choice depends on how long you will need it.

When renting a stairlift makes sense

  • Recovery after a hip, knee or other surgery. Here is one example: renting a stairlift after knee surgery.
  • A hospital discharge while you wait for permanent changes.
  • Palliative or end-of-life care at home.
  • You are not sure a stairlift is the right solution yet.

What does it cost to rent a stairlift?

Our straight stairlift rentals in Vancouver start from $250 per month, plus set-up and removal costs, which are billed on the first invoice. See our rentals page for what is available.

Prices are indicative and accurate at the time of publishing; contact us for a current quote.

When buying makes sense

  • A long-term mobility condition that is unlikely to improve.
  • You plan to stay in your home for years.
  • Your staircase is curved. Curved rails are custom-made, so they are normally bought, not rented. See curved stairlifts.

For a straight staircase, see straight stairlifts, or get an estimate from the stairlift price calculator.

A quick way to compare

Add up the months you expect to need the lift. If the total rent starts to approach the price of buying a straight lift, buying is usually the better value. For a few months, renting almost always costs less. The full price picture is in how much a stairlift costs in Vancouver.

Things to ask either way

  1. What exactly is included in the price, and what is billed separately?
  2. Who looks after the lift, and what happens if it breaks? See stairlift servicing and repair.
  3. What are the terms if you need it for longer than planned?

Common questions

How much does it cost to rent a stairlift?

From $250 per month for a straight stairlift, plus set-up and removal costs billed on the first invoice.

Can I rent a curved stairlift?

Curved rails are custom-made for each staircase, so they are normally bought rather than rented. Ask us about your stairs.

Is a refurbished stairlift an option?

It may be. See refurbished stairlifts and call us to ask what is available.

Book a free in-home assessment and we will tell you honestly which option fits, or call 604-259-1211.