To put it simply, yes, it is possible to replace your stairs with a lift, but there are a few considerations to consider before making the restructure. At Alliance Platform Lifts, we specialise in helping homeowners safely and efficiently upgrade their properties with residential lift solutions that fit flawlessly into their lives.
This guide explains everything you need to know about replacing stairs with a lift, from planning and space requirements to cost, compliance, and the benefits of a bespoke solution.
Why Homeowners Consider Replacing Stairs with a Lift
More than 75% of falls at home occur on stairs. For homeowners facing mobility issues, ageing in place, or simply planning ahead, replacing stairs with a lift is a strategic and often life-changing improvement.
Common reasons include:
- Reduced mobility due to age or health conditions
- Need for safe and independent access to upper floors
- Desire to stay in a multi-storey home longer
- Support for multi-generational families
- Increasing property value and buyer appeal
Can You Fully Remove Stairs and Replace Them with an Elevator?
In certain homes, it is possible to fully remove an internal staircase and replace it with a residential lift. However, this depends on specific factors, including how many staircases your property has and the building’s layout. UK Building Regulations typically require at least one permanent staircase for emergency access, particularly in the event of a fire or power failure. That means full staircase removal is usually only feasible in properties with multiple staircases or where a new build or major renovation is taking place.
At Alliance, our compliance specialists assess your property layout and advise whether complete replacement is viable, or if the lift should be installed alongside an existing staircase to meet regulatory and safety standards.
Structural Requirements for Installing a Home Lift
Installing a lift involves creating vertical access between floors. Key structural changes may include:
- Cutting through timber joists or concrete slabs
- Reinforcing structural openings with double-joisting or steelwork
- Ensuring no interference with plumbing, wiring, or load-bearing walls
Our team works with architects, surveyors, and structural engineers to ensure your home is safe, stable, and ready for lift installation. CAD drawings and full structural reports are provided as standard.
Space Needed to Replace Stairs with a Residential Lift
Modern residential lifts are designed to fit into compact, space-efficient areas.
| Feature | Requirement |
| Lift footprint | 1.0–1.5 m² |
| Recommended landing space | 1.5 x 1.5 m (for wheelchair users) |
| Floor-to-ceiling height | Approx. 2.3 m per level |
Popular installation points include:
- Hallways
- Cupboards or unused corners
- Areas where the staircase once existed
- Stairwells or split-level landings
Types of Home Lifts Suitable for Stair Replacement
Alliance offers several lift types that can be used in place of a staircase:
Through-Floor Lifts
- Compact and ideal for existing homes
- Travels directly between two floors
- Shaftless design for minimal building work
Cabin Lifts
- Fully enclosed for added safety and comfort
- Requires shaft, pit, and headroom
- Premium finish options available
Platform Lifts
- Open or enclosed platform
- Perfect for wheelchair users
- Requires minimal pit and overhead space
Glass Lifts
- Stylish, panoramic design
- Architectural statement for modern homes
- Best suited to new builds or extensions
Installation Process: What to Expect
Our installation process is fast, efficient, and carefully managed. Here’s how it works:
- Site Survey – We assess your home’s layout, structure, and space.
- Design & Drawings – We provide technical drawings, 3D mock-ups, and obtain any permissions.
- Pre-Install Works – Includes opening floors, electrical prep, and shaft assembly (if needed).
- Lift Installation – Usually takes 3–7 days, depending on the model.
- Testing & Commissioning – Full safety testing, training, and certification.
Alliance coordinates directly with your contractor or can provide a turnkey installation using our in-house team.
Costs Involved in Replacing Stairs with a Lift
Costs vary depending on the type of lift you choose, the level of customisation, the extent of structural work needed, and the layout of your home. Factors influencing the final price include the lift model, finish options such as materials and design features, and whether additional building modifications are required. Ongoing servicing is also an important consideration to ensure long-term reliability. Optional upgrades, such as automatic doors, integrated seating, bespoke finishes, or smart controls, can also affect the total investment. Our team provides detailed, transparent quotes tailored to your specific requirements following a full site assessment.
You may be eligible for financial support, such as the Disabled Facilities Grant (up to £30,000) or other local authority schemes.
Building Regulations and Compliance Considerations in the UK
Alliance ensures every lift meets or exceeds UK safety and building standards:
- Part M – Accessibility and use of buildings
- Part B – Fire safety, egress planning
- BS EN 81-41 – Safety of lifting platforms
- BS EN 81-70 – Accessibility features and controls
- UKCA / CE marking – Ensures manufacturing compliance
Every installation includes full documentation, O&M manuals, and handover certification.
Benefits of Replacing Stairs with a Lift
- Enhanced Mobility: Seamless access between floors for all users
- Injury Prevention: Reduces fall risks and physical strain
- Increased Property Value: Homes with accessibility features are more marketable
- Convenience: Easier to transport laundry, luggage, or groceries
- Independence: Maintain quality of life without relocating
Alternatives if Removing the Staircase Isn’t Possible
If removing your staircase isn’t possible due to structural limitations or regulatory requirements, you can still enjoy the benefits of a home lift by installing it alongside the existing stairs, within a converted cupboard or extension, or in a rear hallway or underutilised space. These alternative placements allow for greater flexibility without compromising accessibility. While stairlifts and incline platform lifts may be considered as more affordable solutions, they often fall short in terms of convenience, long-term usability, and visual integration compared to a fully designed and fitted home lift system.
Custom Lift Design Options from Alliance
Our lifts are custom-built to fit your space, style, and requirements. We offer:
- Bespoke materials and finishes (glass, wood, stainless steel, stone)
- Shaft or shaftless configurations
- Manual or automatic doors
- Silent, smooth drive systems
- Control panel personalisation with Braille and illuminated buttons
Our custom lift design service ensures your lift integrates perfectly with your home.
Future-Proofing Your Home with a Lift
With over 28% of the UK population projected to be aged 65 or over by 2036, future-proofing homes with lift access has never been more important. Installing a lift reduces the need for costly renovations later, supports long-term independent living, and ensures your home remains accessible to guests or family members with limited mobility. It also aligns with growing market expectations, making your property more appealing to future buyers seeking accessible, multi-generational living spaces.
Why Choose Alliance for Bespoke Home Lift Solutions
- Decades of Expertise: We specialise solely in platform lifts
- Tailored Solutions: Every lift is designed for your home and lifestyle
- In-House Engineers: From planning to installation, we manage it all
- Certified Safety: All lifts meet the highest UK and EU standards
- Ongoing Support: Dedicated aftercare and maintenance plans
Alliance Platform Lifts is trusted by homeowners, developers, and architects across the UK.
Start your journey today. Book a consultation and let Alliance help you plan the safe, stylish, and reliable home lift solution that’s right for you.
Alliance Platform Lifts – Engineered for Access. Built Around You.
