Stairlifts in Ireland — the complete 2026 buyer's guide
Last updated: 17 September 2026
A stairlift is the most common, fastest, and least invasive way to keep someone safely in their home when stairs become difficult. Most Irish homes can be fitted within a day. Most buyers qualify for a grant that covers most or all of the cost. This guide explains what to expect, what things actually cost, and how to choose between options.
How much does a stairlift cost in Ireland? A new straight stairlift costs about €2,200 to €5,000 fitted, and a curved one about €5,000 to €10,000. A council grant can pay some or all of that, and you may be able to claim the VAT back from Revenue.
Would you rather we did the paperwork?
The form takes an afternoon. What comes after it takes six months. If you would sooner not do it on your own, we prepare everything you need for the whole application and email it to you.
Your complete grant kit
€49.99 one-off, VAT included
- Your council application form, filled in and ready to sign
- A prep sheet for the occupational therapist visit
- A supporting statement setting out why the works are needed
- Three quote request emails, ready to send
- Your document checklist, timeline, chase letter and appeal letter
- Ask us anything until it is submitted
Not sure it is right for you? Ask us first.
Email hello@thegranthub.ie with a line about your situation and we will answer you straight. It costs nothing, there is no obligation, and you are not signing up to anything.
See exactly what is in the kit for a stairlift grant. We never ask for your PPS number, your income figures or any documents.
We cannot promise any council will approve a grant. What we promise is that your application is complete, on time and with nothing left vague.
Stairlifts in Ireland — quick facts
- Straight stairlift (new): €2,200–€5,000 fitted
- Curved stairlift (new): €5,000–€10,000+ fitted
- Outdoor stairlift (new): €3,500–€6,500 fitted
- Installation time: 2–4 hours for most homes
- Grant available: Mobility Aids Grant (up to €8,000) covers most stairlifts in full for lower-income households; Housing Adaptation Grant (up to €40,000) for larger combined works
- Note: Grant-funded stairlifts must be new equipment fitted by an approved installer. Reconditioned units are not eligible.
On this page
Types of stairlift
Straight stairlifts
For staircases that go in a single straight line with no turns or landings. The rail is a standard pre-cut length cut to size. Cheapest option, fastest to install.
Curved stairlifts
For staircases with bends, half-landings, full landings, or spiral configurations. The rail is custom-bent to your exact staircase, which is why they cost more and take 4–6 weeks from order to installation.
Outdoor stairlifts
Weatherproof units for steps outside the home — front entrances, patios, garden access. Less common but the right answer when the access barrier is outside, not inside.
Standing / perch stairlifts
For users who can stand but cannot bend their knees safely (e.g., severe arthritis). The user perches against a small saddle rather than sitting fully. Useful where a seated stairlift won't fit.
Heavy-duty / bariatric stairlifts
Reinforced units rated for users up to 30 stone (190 kg). Standard stairlifts are typically rated to 20–22 stone.
What stairlifts actually cost in Ireland (2026)
| Type | New (fitted) | Lead time |
|---|---|---|
| Straight stairlift | €2,200–€5,000 | 3–10 days |
| Curved stairlift | €5,000–€10,000 | 4–6 weeks |
| Outdoor stairlift | €3,500–€6,500 | 2–4 weeks |
| Heavy-duty | €4,000–€7,000 | 1–3 weeks |
Prices include installation, basic warranty, and VAT. Removal at end of life is sometimes extra. Grant-funded works require new fitted equipment, not reconditioned.
The grant changes the maths entirely. If you qualify for the Mobility Aids Grant (gross household income under €37,500), the grant covers up to €8,000 — which is the full cost of most straight stairlifts and a meaningful chunk of curved. Check what you qualify for →
Stairlift grants: what the council pays
Most families never pay full price for a stairlift. Two council grants cover them, and with a household income up to €37,500 the council can pay the whole approved cost.
- Mobility Aids Grant: up to €8,000, for household incomes up to €37,500. The quicker route for a straight stairlift.
- Housing Adaptation Grant: up to €40,000, paying 30% to 100% of the approved cost depending on income. Used where the job costs more than €8,000, is part of bigger works, or the income is over €37,500.
Both come from your county council, not the HSE. You need an occupational therapist report, written quotes, and the council’s written approval before the stairlift is ordered. Order it first and there is no grant.
See what the stairlift grant pays in each county, and how long each council takes, or check your income tier in two minutes.
How to apply for a stairlift grant, and who to contact
Contact the housing grants section of your local authority, which is your county or city council. The HSE does not run these grants. The steps below are for the Mobility Aids Grant, the usual route for a stairlift. The Housing Adaptation Grant is also applied for through your council.
- Get the form from your council. Download it from the council website or ask them to post one to you. The rules changed on 1 December 2024, so make sure it is the updated form.
- Have a doctor fill in the medical section. The form has a section that a doctor must complete and sign.
- Send it with your documents: proof of your household income for the previous tax year, proof that the Local Property Tax is paid (or that you are exempt or have deferred it), and an occupational therapist’s report, which a stairlift needs.
- The OT report. The council can arrange the assessment, or you can use a private OT and get up to €300 of the cost back as part of the grant. Why many families book a private OT.
- The council decides. It checks that you qualify, may send a technician to look at the home, and tells you if you are approved. It then asks for the quote, your contractor’s tax reference number and your bank details.
- After approval. Start the work within 6 months. If you are refused, you can appeal to the council in writing within 3 weeks.
For general questions, the Citizens Information Phone Service is on 0818 07 4000, Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm.
Source: Citizens Information, Mobility Aids Grant Scheme, checked 17 September 2026.
Claiming the VAT back on a stairlift
The council grant does not cover VAT. Revenue lets you reclaim the VAT paid on aids and appliances for a person with a disability, and its list of qualifying goods includes stairlifts.
- Claim through eRepayments in Revenue’s myAccount, or on the paper Form VAT 61A.
- Claim within four years from the end of the VAT period the purchase falls in, in the name of the person who bought it.
- Include evidence of the disability from a medical practitioner, and evidence of how the stairlift meets the person’s needs, from a medical practitioner or from the manufacturer.
- Include invoices marked “paid in full” that show the VAT rate and amount and the supplier’s VAT number, plus evidence of any grant or other State aid.
- Rental and service costs do not qualify.
More in our guide to the VAT refund on aids and appliances, or see Revenue’s page on reclaiming VAT on aids and appliances (published 20 December 2024).
The main brands sold in Ireland
| Brand | Strength | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|
| Stannah | Best curved options, premium build, long warranties | Access Stairlifts (sole ROI distributor) |
| Acorn | Widest model range, strong on straight stairlifts | Multiple Irish installers |
| Handicare | Slim rail design, good for narrow stairs, reliable | Beechfield, BM Stairlifts, others |
| Brooks (now Acorn) | Affordable straight stairlifts, owned by Acorn since 2017 | Multiple installers |
| Bruno | US brand, strong heavy-duty options | Selected Irish installers |
| Otolift | Single-rail curved design, premium | Specialist installers |
How to choose — the practical checklist
- Measure your stairs. Straight or curved? Width? (under 700mm needs a slim model). Carpeted or wood?
- Assess the user. Weight, height, dexterity, ability to swivel and transfer.
- Check grant eligibility before paying anything. Most stairlift buyers qualify for partial or full grant cover. Use the eligibility checker →
- Get three written quotes. Required for the grant application — submitted to the council with the rest of the paperwork.
- Check warranty terms. Five years on the motor and gearbox is typical on new units.
- Confirm servicing. Stairlifts need annual servicing (€80–€150). Confirm the installer offers it locally.
FAQs
How much does a stairlift cost in Ireland?
A new straight stairlift typically costs €2,200 to €5,000 fitted. A curved stairlift ranges from €5,000 to €10,000 because the rail is custom-made. Installation is normally included. Grant-funded stairlifts must be new equipment fitted by an approved installer.
What is the difference between a straight and curved stairlift?
A straight stairlift fits stairs that go in a single line with no bends or landings. A curved stairlift has a custom-bent rail to follow turns, half-landings, or spiral stairs. Curved units cost roughly twice as much because the rail is bespoke to your home.
What stairlift brands are available in Ireland?
Stannah, Acorn, Handicare, Brooks (now part of Acorn), Bruno, and Otolift. Stannah is exclusively distributed in the Republic of Ireland by Access Stairlifts. Most installers carry two to three brands.
How long does a stairlift last?
A well-maintained stairlift lasts 10–15 years. Battery packs typically need replacing every 4–6 years (€150–€300). Annual servicing is recommended to keep warranty valid and identify wear early.
Can I claim the VAT back on a stairlift?
Yes, if it is for a person with a disability. The council grant does not cover VAT, but Revenue refunds the VAT on qualifying aids and appliances, and stairlifts are on its list. Claim through eRepayments in myAccount or on Form VAT 61A within four years, with medical evidence and invoices marked paid in full.
Who do I contact about a stairlift grant?
The housing grants section of your local authority, which is your county or city council, not the HSE. The council gives you the application form, and a doctor must complete the medical section. For general questions, the Citizens Information Phone Service is on 0818 07 4000.
Will a stairlift damage my stairs?
No — stairlifts attach to the stair treads, not the wall, and can be removed cleanly leaving only small screw holes that can be filled. Most homes show no permanent marks after removal.
Find out what the grant will cover for your stairlift
Free 30-second eligibility check. Enter your household income and we'll show you the percentage covered and the maximum grant available.
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