When is an outdoor lift the right solution?
Outdoor home elevators are often chosen when internal layouts make indoor lift installation too disruptive or technically difficult. They're also suitable where preserving interior design or square footage is a priority.
You might consider an outdoor elevator if:
- Your property has sloped gardens, external staircases, or upper-level entrances
- Indoor installation would require extensive remodelling
- You need step-free access between different outdoor areas (e.g. driveway to main level)
- You’re retrofitting accessibility features without changing interiors
An outdoor home elevator can provide direct access with fewer building changes but it’s essential to choose the right model and setup.
Which lifts can be installed outdoors?
At Morgan Ellis, only our Access Lifts range including the Altura Platinum, Altura Diamond, and the Supra platform lift — are fully suitable for external installation as standard. These outdoor home elevators are built specifically for outdoor conditions, with weather-resistant construction and safety features that support year-round performance.
Other lifts (such as Aritco or Stiltz) are designed for indoor use. These can be installed outside only if they are housed within a purpose-built, weatherproof shaft. Without this, they are not suitable for exposure to UK weather. Installing them externally requires extra planning, cost, and protection.
Choosing a lift that is truly outdoor-ready from the outset ensures long-term reliability and reduces installation complexity.
Outdoor lift design types
Depending on the application, there are several structural formats:
- Shaft-style lifts: Enclosed outdoor home elevators with full cabins and maximum weather protection
- Platform lifts: Open lifts for shorter vertical distances or level changes
- Balcony or terrace access lifts: Designed to link outdoor entry points with minimal disruption
All models installed outdoors must be structurally secure, weather-sealed, and correctly drained. For long-term use, it’s also important to consider materials (e.g. galvanised steel, powder coatings) and finish options that blend with your exterior design.
Do outdoor lifts require planning permission?
In many areas, yes. External lifts often change the building’s appearance, so planning permission may be required. This is especially true for visible shafts, platform lifts, or listed buildings.
Morgan Ellis manages this process as part of our end-to-end service. We’ll help you determine whether permissions are needed and coordinate compliance with local authorities.
How do outdoor lifts handle UK weather?
Genuine outdoor home elevators are engineered for exposure to rain, wind, and seasonal changes. Features to look for include:
- Galvanised or powder-coated structural frames
- Water-resistant enclosures and weatherproof doors
- Drainage systems to avoid pooling or freezing
- Slip-resistant floors
- Operating ranges compatible with UK temperatures
All Access Lifts offered by Morgan Ellis are built with these standards in mind. For indoor models being adapted for outside use, additional weatherproofing must be custom-built including sealed shafts, roofing, and access protection.
What’s the typical footprint for an outdoor lift?
Outdoor home elevators often offer more flexible placement options than indoor systems but still require careful planning. You’ll need:
- A stable concrete base
- Unobstructed vertical travel path
- Access to a safe power supply
A site visit is essential. Our team will assess installation feasibility and recommend optimal positioning with minimal disruption.
Are outdoor lifts safe?
Yes, when installed by specialists. Outdoor home elevators include safety features such as:
- Enclosed cabins or guarding
- Emergency stop and power backup systems
- Smooth start/stop motion controls
- Lighting and non-slip surfaces
Properly maintained, these systems remain reliable throughout the year even with heavy usage.
How much do outdoor lifts cost?
Outdoor home elevator pricing varies depending on type, size, finish, and complexity.
- Entry-level platform lifts start from approx. £15,000
- Shaft-style Access Lifts (like the Altura range) are priced higher due to their structural and weatherproof capabilities
Cost also depends on groundwork, electrical setup, and planning services. Morgan Ellis provides tailored quotes based on site-specific needs.
Can lifts be retrofitted to existing homes?
Yes, outdoor home elevators are often easier to retrofit than interior models. Because they’re installed outside, there’s less disruption to internal rooms. We regularly fit lifts to:
- Garden pathways
- External walls and staircases
- Balcony and terrace access points
This makes them ideal for homeowners looking to increase accessibility without changing their interior layout.
What’s the installation timeline?
Most outdoor home elevator installations take 1–2 weeks depending on complexity. Simpler platform models may take just a few days, while enclosed Access Lifts take slightly longer due to structure preparation and finishes.
The key variables include:
- Site access and foundation work
- Drainage preparation
- Power connection
- Planning approvals (if applicable)
Morgan Ellis oversees the entire timeline, keeping you informed throughout.
How much do they cost to run?
Running costs are typically low:
- Similar energy usage to household appliances
- Annual service checks for performance and safety
- Occasional maintenance for outdoor wear (e.g. seals, buttons, panels)
Our service team offers preventive maintenance plans to keep your outdoor home elevator running smoothly with minimal ongoing costs.
What should you look for in a lift provider?
Installing an outdoor home elevator needs experience, compliance knowledge, and long-term support. Choose a provider who offers:
- Full planning and site assessment
- Weatherproofing and specification guidance
- Compliance support and installation project management
- Aftercare and ongoing service
Morgan Ellis has installed outdoor home elevators across the UK from countryside homes to urban properties helping clients find practical, attractive solutions that work for the long term.
Case study: Great Suffolk Street, London
At a property on Great Suffolk Street, indoor access constraints made an internal lift impossible. The Morgan Ellis team installed an Aritco lift within a custom-built glazed shaft on the exterior of the building turning an indoor model into an outdoor installation with full weather protection.
This project highlights how models not designed for outdoor use can still be installed outside when properly enclosed. The result preserved the home’s internal layout while delivering safe, step-free access across levels.
Start your outdoor lift project with confidence
Outdoor home elevators improve accessibility and convenience for a wide range of properties. But the key to success lies in choosing the right model, ensuring proper weather protection, and partnering with a team who understands the technical and aesthetic challenges involved.
To explore a tailored outdoor home elevator solution for your home, contact Morgan Ellis for a consultation today.