Home Lifts & Through-Floor Lifts in London

For Londoners who can no longer manage stairs at all, a through-floor lift or platform lift offers the most comprehensive long-term solution. These compact, purpose-built lifts can be installed in Victorian terraces, purpose-built flats and modern houses — and many qualify for DFG funding of up to £30,000.

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Through-floor and platform lifts can be fully or partially funded through DFG grants. With costs of £10,000–£30,000, this funding can be critical.

Through-floor lifts DFG eligible
Platform lifts & vertical lifts covered
Engineer-certified installations
Ongoing service contracts available

London DFG Guide

One enquiry, sent to one vetted London specialist.

Home Lifts in London — Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a through-floor lift and a platform lift?

A through-floor lift travels vertically through the floor/ceiling between two levels, with a platform that rises into a fully enclosed car — ideal for wheelchair users. A platform lift travels along a wall or in an existing stairwell on a platform without a full shaft enclosure, making them suitable for smaller spaces. Both are available for domestic properties in London.

How much space is needed for a home lift in London?

A standard through-floor lift requires a floor opening of approximately 90cm × 90cm on each level, plus a small motor housing in the ceiling or roof space. Many London Victorian terraced houses can accommodate this, though a structural engineer survey is recommended first. Some compact platform lifts can fit into spaces as small as 80cm × 80cm.

Can a home lift be installed in a Victorian terrace in London?

Yes — many London specialists have extensive experience installing home lifts in Victorian and Edwardian properties. The key considerations are the floor structure, ceiling height and available space. Installations in listed buildings or conservation areas will require additional planning consideration. Always choose a specialist with documented experience in older London properties.

Does a home lift require annual servicing?

Yes. Under LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations), home lifts must be inspected by a competent person every 6 months. Most reputable installers offer service contracts covering annual or bi-annual inspections, routine maintenance and emergency callouts. Factor this into your decision — a lift with a poor service network can become difficult and expensive to maintain.