At a home lift consultation, an experienced installer measures the stairs or the space, checks the floor structure, ceiling heights and power, and talks with the rider about how they move and what they need. You then get a written quote with the model, price, timeline and permit plan, with no obligation.
What does the installer check?
For a stair lift: the length and shape of the stairs, the width, where the rail fixes, space at the top and bottom to get on and off, and a power point nearby. A straight stair lift takes about four to five hours to fit later, so measuring carefully now matters.[1]
For an elevator: the footprint on each floor, ceiling height, floor joists, electrical supply and whether the space can take a shaft, a pneumatic tube or a through-floor lift. Fixr notes most residential cabs are limited to about 18 square feet in most areas.[2]
What should you have ready?
- The rider, if possible, and anyone who helps with decisions
- A rough idea of budget and timing
- Mobility aids the lift must carry, such as a walker or wheelchair, with its width
- Condo or HOA rules, if you live in one
- Questions written down
What should you ask?
Florida's elevator law does not cover lifts inside private homes, so ask directly about registration, insurance and the permit plan.[3] Our checklist of questions has the full list.
What happens after the visit?
You get a written quote. Take your time, compare it, and ask anything that is unclear. Nothing is ordered until you say yes.
What this means for you
Book the visit when the rider can be there, have the wheelchair or walker measurements ready, and keep the written quote to compare.
Find a pro in your area
Enter your ZIP code and we will open the quote form for you. It takes about a minute.
Frequently asked questions
Is the consultation free?
Yes. Our home visits are free and there is no obligation to go ahead.
Does the rider need to be there?
It helps a lot. The seat height, controls and how they get on and off all depend on the person.
Can family join by phone or video?
Yes. It often helps to have one person at the home and others on the phone.
Sources
- Stairlift Installation Cost (national cost guide, updated 31 Jan 2025), Fixr. Accessed October 28, 2026.
- Home Elevator Cost (national cost guide, updated 31 Jan 2025), Fixr. Accessed October 28, 2026.
- Florida Statutes Chapter 399, Elevator Safety, Florida Legislature. Accessed October 28, 2026.
