Supporting a loved one with mobility challenges can feel overwhelming at first, but the right home adjustments can make a lasting difference. For many families, installing a wheelchair lift for home use becomes a turning point restoring ease of movement, confidence, and everyday comfort. In this guide, we explore simple accessibility upgrades, compare popular lift options like Stiltz and Stannah, and explain how they can transform daily life.
How can you make your home more wheelchair accessible?
Improving accessibility doesn’t require major renovations. Even smaller updates can significantly improve comfort and independence:
- Widen doorways for better wheelchair clearance
- Replace carpets with smooth, low-friction flooring
- Lower kitchen worktops and bathroom sinks
- Install grab bars near toilets and showers
- Remove raised thresholds to prevent tripping
However, one upgrade offers the most practical impact: installing a wheelchair lift for home access.
Why choose a wheelchair lift instead of a stairlift?
For homes with multiple floors, stairs pose an ongoing challenge. A wheelchair lift for home removes that difficulty by allowing users to move between levels without leaving their wheelchair.
Benefits include:
- Independent access throughout the home
- Lower risk of injury from stairs
- Quiet, reliable operation
- Seamless integration with your property’s layout
At Morgan Ellis, we supply both Stannah and Stiltz lifts to match different home types and user preferences.
Which home wheelchair lift is right for your space and needs?
Before you decide, it helps to think through how the lift will fit into your home and daily habits:
- Layout: Do you need access across multiple floors?
- Available space: Stiltz lifts work well in compact spaces, while Stannah models require a larger footprint.
- Users: Will the lift serve one person, or accommodate a carer too?
- Style: Do you prefer an open, modern design or a traditional, enclosed look?
- Budget: Stiltz lifts offer a more affordable starting point.
The right lift gives back control and makes everyday living more comfortable. When considering a wheelchair lift for home use, always match the choice to the user’s lifestyle and physical needs.
What’s the difference between Stiltz and Stannah home lifts?
When choosing between a Stiltz or Stannah lift, it’s important to consider your space, style preferences, and installation needs.
Stiltz Duo and Trio lifts are compact and modern in appearance. They require minimal structural changes, making them ideal for smaller homes or those looking for a discreet installation. The Trio model supports wheelchair access and can typically be installed in just 2–3 days. It’s the more cost-effective option in our range, suitable for straightforward domestic use where space is limited and simplicity is preferred.
Stannah lifts, on the other hand, offer a more traditional cabin-style design with a larger footprint. They typically require a shaft or enclosure and involve slightly more preparation, with installation taking around 4–7 days. Stannah lifts are suited to those who want a more enclosed feel, potentially with added features for complex mobility requirements. While the price point is higher, the added structural design appeals to homeowners with a preference for permanence and a classic look.
Both Stannah and Stiltz lifts play a role in creating accessible homes, and we’re here to help you compare the two based on your needs.
How disruptive is installation?
Most Stiltz lifts can be installed in just a few days. Our team minimises disruption and handles everything from preparation through to clean-up.
You’ll receive guidance throughout, so the experience remains stress-free. Choosing the right wheelchair lift for home installation doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.
Will the lift meet future mobility needs?
Yes. Lifts such as the Stiltz Trio+ and Stannah Outdoor are built with future adaptability in mind. They support increased weight, assistive devices, and changes in user mobility over time.
Investing in a high-quality wheelchair lift for home supports long-term independence and can add resale value.
Do home wheelchair lifts require planning permission or building regulations?
In the UK, most lifts installed indoors comply with planning guidelines. Building regulations such as Part M ensure accessible design.
Worried about red tape? We handle all compliance steps for you, so there’s no extra admin on your end. All our lifts include essential safety features like emergency stops, battery backup, and door interlocks.
How can a home lift reduce the burden on family carers?
Supporting someone with mobility issues often includes lifting, navigating stairs, and managing their physical comfort. These tasks can quickly lead to fatigue or strain. Installing a wheelchair lift for home reduces the physical demands on carers and gives them confidence that their loved one can move around safely.
A lift can:
- Reduce the need for manual assistance
- Minimise risks during transitions between floors
- Support routines without constant supervision
This often leads to improved family dynamics and allows carers to focus more on emotional and social support.
Is energy usage and maintenance a concern?
Most home lifts today are energy-efficient, using similar electricity to a kettle or toaster. They run off standard domestic power supplies and include standby modes to reduce ongoing usage.
Routine servicing, offered by Morgan Ellis, keeps the lift in optimal condition and ensures reliable performance over time. Preventive maintenance also extends the life of the lift and reduces unexpected repair costs.
Case study: Canvey Island – Compact access for an independent lifestyle
In Canvey Island, one homeowner needed a way to maintain independence without sacrificing living space or disrupting the home’s flow. After exploring options with our team, they chose the Stiltz Duo+, a sleek and compact lift that fits comfortably within smaller properties.
We installed the lift in a quiet corner of the lounge, connecting it to a bedroom above. Thanks to the Duo+’s self-supporting design, no load-bearing walls or large structural changes were needed, making the process quick and straightforward.
The result:
- Floor-to-floor access without relying on the stairs
- A discreet lift design that complements the room
- A fast installation with minimal disruption
This project shows how even smaller homes can benefit from a wheelchair lift for home use, especially when mobility and safety are priorities. The Duo+ offered both comfort and freedom without compromise.
Start the journey to a more accessible home
Taking the first step starts with understanding your options. A suitable wheelchair lift for home improves everyday life, offers independence, and ensures your loved ones feel secure and supported.
Morgan Ellis offers expert advice and a wide range of lift systems to fit your home, lifestyle, and budget.
Explore our home lift collection or learn more about our buying process to see how simple it is to get started.
Call us on 01702 780002 or email enquiries@morganellis.co.uk to speak with our team today.