By the UK Wheelchair Lifts – Expert Reviews, Costs & Buying Guides Team · Updated June 2026 · Independent, reader-supported

Stannah vs Stiltz vs Handicare: Wheelchair Platform Lift Comparison UK

If you're looking to install a wheelchair platform lift at home, choosing between Stannah, Stiltz, and Handicare often comes down to balancing cost, warranty coverage, and how quickly you can get local service support. Each brand brings different strengths, and the right choice depends on your space, budget, and service expectations.

Stannah: Established network, premium pricing

Stannah has been installing mobility solutions in British homes for over 80 years, which means their network of local engineers is extensive. You'll find them in most UK postcodes, and response times are typically quick when something goes wrong.

Their wheelchair lifts come in two main types: the Stannah Avada (for indoor use) and the Stannah P-Lift (designed for outdoor and exposed locations). The Avada is compact and fits tight spaces—critical if you're installing in a narrow hallway or confined stairwell. The P-Lift is more robust, with weatherproofing that handles rain and frost.

Warranty and servicing: Stannah offers a standard 12-month manufacturer's warranty, with optional extended coverage available. Their servicing contracts are straightforward but not cheap—expect annual maintenance visits to cost £150–£300 depending on your contract tier. The advantage is peace of mind: if something fails, you're not hunting for a local technician; Stannah has engineers on staff across most regions.

Typical pricing: Around £8,000–£12,000 installed, depending on drop height and complexity. This is the premium end of the market, but much of that cost reflects their service infrastructure.

Stiltz: Specialist focus, mid-range value

Stiltz is a dedicated wheelchair lift manufacturer, not a diversified mobility company. This focus shows in their product design—they've been refining platform lifts specifically, without splitting attention between stairlifts and other solutions.

Their main models are the Stiltz Duo and Stiltz Solo. The Duo handles heavier loads (up to 300 kg) and is suitable for indoor–outdoor use. The Solo is the entry-level option, lighter and more affordable, best suited to straightforward indoor installations.

Build quality: Stiltz lifts are generally robust. They use hydraulic systems (not cable-driven), which means fewer moving parts and less wear on pulleys. Hydraulic systems are also quieter in operation—a real consideration if the lift will be used regularly.

Warranty and servicing: Stiltz typically offers a 2-year warranty, longer than Stannah. However, their service network is smaller. If you're in a major city or town, finding an authorised Stiltz engineer is manageable; in rural areas, you might face longer call-out times or have to contract with a general lift maintenance company rather than a Stiltz specialist.

Typical pricing: £6,500–£9,500 installed. Better value than Stannah, particularly if you're happy to handle some basic troubleshooting yourself or don't mind slightly longer service response times.

Handicare: Budget-conscious option, variable service

Handicare is a Scandinavian-owned company with a UK presence. They focus on accessible housing solutions and tend to pitch at the budget end of the market.

Their wheelchair lift range includes the Handicare Vertical, which is compact and designed for tight spaces. They also offer simpler platform models with electric motors rather than hydraulic systems—lighter on initial cost but potentially requiring more frequent maintenance.

Warranty and servicing: 12-month warranty standard. Handicare's UK service network is thinner than Stannah's and comparable to Stiltz. Servicing can sometimes be arranged through general disability equipment suppliers rather than dedicated lift engineers, which can mean longer admin time to arrange repairs.

Typical pricing: £5,000–£7,500 installed. The cheapest option, which appeals to homeowners on tighter budgets or those installing as a temporary solution (though these lifts are designed to last 10+ years with maintenance).

Trade-off: The lower cost comes with a smaller specialist network. If your lift breaks down, you're more likely to wait longer for an engineer who knows the specific model well.

Practical comparison

For reliability and speed of repair: Stannah wins. Their size and network mean engineer availability, though you'll pay for it upfront.

For engineering design and warranty length: Stiltz edges ahead. Two years' warranty reflects confidence in the product, and hydraulic systems have fewer failure points than electric motors.

For upfront affordability: Handicare is the logical choice if budget is the primary constraint and you're willing to accept longer service wait times or higher annual maintenance costs.

For space-constrained installations: Check individual models. Stannah's Avada and Handicare's Vertical both excel in tight spaces; Stiltz models tend to need slightly more room.

Hidden costs to factor in

Don't just compare headline prices. Ask each company about:

• Annual servicing costs (£100–£300 per year is typical)
• Spare parts availability (Stannah and Stiltz are better stocked)
• Response time guarantees (Stannah often offers same-day in urban areas; others may not)
• Installation complexity charges (tight spaces, outdoor exposure, or difficult access can add £1,000–£2,000)

The verdict

Stannah suits you if you value rapid service and don't mind paying for that certainty. Stiltz is the sweet spot for most homeowners—decent value, longer warranty, solid engineering. Handicare makes sense if you're budget-limited or installing temporarily.

Before deciding, get quotes from all three and ask specifically about local engineer availability in your postcode. Warranty length and price matter, but an engineer who can reach you in 48 hours matters more when the lift isn't working.