A wheelchair lift, also known as a "platform lift" "vertical platform lift" or "VPL" is an ideal solution to help overcome steps leading into a home or business, or to overcome floor levels. Wheelchair lifts are often considered as an alternative to a wheelchair ramp, which can take up a lot of space, or a stair lift, which is incapable of lifting someone bound to a wheelchair or scooter.
In this Wheelchair Platform Lift Guide we will:
Evaluate the mobility challenge area to help pick the right wheelchair lift for your needs.
Help you understand the spacing requirements needed for a platform lift to be installed
Learn about the different types of wheelchair lifts: Outdoor & indoor vertical platform lifts, and inclined platform lifts
Identify platform lift tips including finding the right solution, managing a tight timeline, how to save money, how caregivers can help, and what to choose in common situations.
Table of Contents (Topics Covered in this Guide)
Use the links to jump to the topic(s) you are interested in, or simply scroll down to start reading.
90% of seniors prefer to age at home versus moving to an assisted living facility, per an AARP survey. However, as we age, injuries and illnesses can make it difficult and unsafe to navigate raised steps at entry ways to a home or travel between floors. A wheelchair lift can provide a convenient way to access a home and allows one to remain in the home he/she knows and loves. Wheelchair lifts are becoming more popular – making them widely available and less costly when comparing the monthly cost of assisted living facilities or retirement homes.
Enter and exiting this dear woman's RV home is no longer a challenge and she can do so independently. Peace of mind for her family members that live next door.
First Step: Understand the Need
These are 5 important questions to ask when researching residential wheelchair lifts:
Where is the best location for the lift to be installed?
How many people and how much weight will be lifted?
What safety features are required and how do they protect the lift rider(s)?
What modifications will be needed to install the lift?
Is an installation permit required?
Here are some of the most common situations that we encounter when doing a home consultation for a wheelchair lift:
An injury or surgery has made it impossible to enter a home because of steps, a porch, or deck at a main entryway
There are steps in the garage, that one must climb in order to enter/exit the home. These raised doorways are quite common and installing a wheelchair lift in the garage is one of the most frequent uses cases.
Riding up and down stairways to move between levels in a home, like when accessing a basement, on a wheelchair or scooter is not possible. Stair lifts typically aren't a viable solution for people bound to a wheelchair or power chair. In this use case specifically, an inclined platform lift makes it possible to travel up and down stairs without having to leave a wheelchair or scooter.
If any of those situations listed above sound familiar to you, and moving to a single-level home or senior living is not an option that you want to consider, then a wheelchair lift may be a great option for your home.
Wheelchair Lift Features
Power
4-6 foot units are AC powered. DC power is optional. 10 foot models come with a continuous DC battery-powered motor.
Safety Features
Platform lifts come with sensors to detect obstructions should anything (a pet), or anyone (a child) happen to slide underneath. There is also an additional emergency control switch to stop the lift at any time.
A wheelchair lift detects obstructions and stops automatically
A wheelchair or scooter user can ride on/off the platform. A switch is used to travel up and down and the lift automatically folds to prevent a user from rolling off.
The foldable panel of a wheelchair lift is a safety feature that prevents a wheelchair rider from rolling off.
Platform Gate
An extra layer of safety can be achieved by adding a platform gate that closes shut after a rider enters the lift. This remains closed to prevent falls throughout the ride.
A platform gate remains shut throughout a ride to provide an extra layer of safety
Landing Call/Send Station
The addition of a landing call/send station allows operation from outside the lift.
This station can call/send from outside the lift
Operators
Two types of operators can help open the gate of a wheelchair lift with ease.
Optional operators help open/close the gate
Types of Wheelchair Lifts
Outdoor Vertical Platform Lifts
Outdoor platform lifts for those with disabilities or limited mobility are commonly referred to as porch lifts, as they can provide access to the entry, backyard, and/or front yard of homes and commercial buildings. Lifeway Mobility's outdoor wheelchair lifts are built to operate in changing weather climates.
Outdoor wheelchair lift, aka porch lift, matching the design of a home
Indoor Wheelchair Lifts
Indoor platform lifts are very useful for helping people using mobility devices, such as a wheelchair or scooter, to easily travel between levels in homes and public buildings.
Also known as a vertical platform lift, these types of lifts can travel up to two stops or up to 14' of vertical height. While they work like an elevator does and typically require a hoistway when installed indoors, wheelchair lifts are much more affordable and can be installed quicker.
This indoor lift helps overcome the levels/steps inside of a home
Inclined Platform Lifts
Inclined platform lifts, or IPLs, different than a vertical platform lift in that they carry a wheelchair user over an existing staircase on a level platform—a little like a flying carpet. The platform folds up when the inclined lift is not in use, so the stairs are open and passable.
Inclined platform lifts can be used both indoors and out and in residential and commercial settings. Like stair lifts, IPLs are available for both straight and curved staircases.
Inclined platform lifts shown outdoors on a long and curvy set of steps
Commercial Wheelchair Lifts
Commercial wheelchair lifts provide a safe and convenient way for people with disabilities or limited mobility to access schools, places of worship, restaurants and other buildings. All of the ADA lifts that Lifeway Mobility provides and professionally installs are built to meet all local codes and guidelines.
A commercial wheelchair lift allows easy and safe access to this raised restaurant
Added Safety Options for Wheelchair Lifts
In order to maintain safety and security when using a vertical platform lift, there may be an added safety option or two that needs to be added to your lift. Below is a list of added safety options for platform lifts:
Keyed access with mechanical interlock for added security
Cold weather package for added functionality in temperatures as low as -20º F
Platform canopy to keep lift and occupants dry in bad weather
Battery power and backup systems for usage during power outage
Telephone kit option (some models only)
Fire-rated doors
Travel stop alarms
Enclosure kit (commercial models only)
Wheelchair Lift Benefits
Wheelchair lifts provide an accessible and safer way for people with mobility impairments to enter and exit a home, and offer the following benefits:
Provides safe access to raised entryways (or another floor level that is not accessible)
Space saving option for those without enough space outside their home or building for a wheelchair ramp
Available for indoor and outdoor applications to improve safe access
Multiple entry/exit packages to fit your mobility needs
Multiple safety features, including a keyed entry to prevent unauthorized use & ensure peace of mind
Wheelchair Lift Pricing
Wheelchair platform lift pricing ranges between $12,000 and $35,000 depending on a variety of factors. However, unique applications or designs can result in costs higher than $35,000. Below are some of the key factors that influence cost of platform lift:
Height of vertical travel required
Indoor or outdoor installation
Structural modifications required
Model/make platform lift
Additional construction required for installation (i.e. decking for upper landing area)
Removal or demolition of existing structures
Permits if required by local ordinance
Additional added safety options available for the wheelchair lift
Contact Lifeway Mobility today for a comprehensive quote for your particular wheelchair platform lift project.
Funding Options & Financing for Wheelchair Lifts
If you are finding that the price ranges listed above are not within your budget, consider the following funding options to help pay for a ramp:
Government Assistance Programs: There are some states that offer government funded Medicaid waiver programs or assistive technology (AT) programs that will cover the cost of a wheelchair lift or offer low-interest loans. Depending on the state you live in, you may be able to apply for these types of programs or waivers through the Department of Health & Human Services or an insurance carrier. In addition, some states may offer grants through the HUD for home modifications and lifts.
Veterans Affairs (VA): If you are a veteran and in need of a safe way to overcome steps at the entrance of a home, please contact your local VA hospital. The VA offers different types of grants and waivers for wheelchair lifts for veterans who meet their criteria.
Health Insurance: While not commonly covered by private health insurance plans, it's worth checking your insurance policy to see if they consider a wheelchair lift to be "DME" and are deemed to be medically necessary
Consumer Financing: Some wheelchair lift providers offer financing with monthly payments to qualified buyers. Typically, a down payment will be required and the interest rate will be based on your credit score. Lifeway Mobility offers financing for wheelchair lifts (between $1k-$25k) through Affirm.
Other Options: In addition, you may consider some alternative funding options to help you pay for a platform lift such as a home improvement loan, reverse mortgage, or a grant through a local township or disability organization.
Visit our funding or affordability pages to learn more about funding options for platform lifts. You can also contact us @ (888) 714-1930 with any questions!
Buying Online & DIY
Purchasing a vertical platform lift online through an e-commerce company can appear affordable and easy at first - but can end up being a costly and unsafe mistake. Online e-commerce dealers often do not include delivery, installation, permits, inspections, site prep (construction or modifications) or warranty coverage in the prices listed on the website. In addition, these online lifts may contain "hidden costs", as well as no warranty on labor, and no options for post-installation service should the lift break down. These important elements would be completely left up to you to figure out on your own - and typically end up costing you more in the long run.
A reputable provider of wheelchair lifts, carries all of the necessary licenses, insurance, and expertise; and offers warranty coverage, and professional installation & service by trained and certified technicians to ensure safe and reliable use for years to come. Also, top manufacturers such as Bruno, require their lifts to be installed certified professional installers through their dealer network to ensure safe usage.
While a DIY option may be tempting at first, attempting to install a highly complex piece of equipment such as a vertical platform lift yourself is not recommended, and could seriously jeopardize your life and your family's safety.
How Does the Buying Process Work?
If you’ve read everything above and have decided that a wheelchair lift is the best accessibility solution for you or a family member, please follow the steps listed below to get started.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Accessibility Expert: All Lifeway Mobility locations offer free in-home or virtual consultations. One of our office staff members will be happy to schedule one of our platform lift experts to meet with you virtually or in-person at a time that is convenient for you and your family. During the consultation, we will first take the time to understandyour specific needs and then offer our best recommend solutions. We will also measure the area and the steps where the lift is needed.
Receive Free Quote: After the conclusion of the consultation, our accessibility expert will provide a free quote. The quote provided will include the price of the best recommended wheelchair lift solutions based on your mobility needs and home.
Purchase Platform Lift: Consider all factors before making a purchase decision, including reviews, safety features, options, professional installation, and warranty coverage, when deciding on the best platform lift for your needs. We are happy to answer any questions that you may have.
If you were decide to move forward with Lifeway Mobility, our local team would then schedule your platform lift installation on day/time that is convenient for you! On the day of installation, one or two of our professional, factory-trained technicians will come to your home to install your wheelchair lift. The time of installation varies, but It's normally between 2-5 hours.
Wheelchair Lift Warranties
Lifeway Mobility offers comprehensive warranty coverage on parts and labor for all wheelchair platform lifts. For new platform lifts professionally installed, coverage includes:
Major Components: 2 Years
Parts & Labor: 1 Year
Service & Maintenance
There are some simple, basic ways to maintain a wheelchair platform lift - such as removing any snow or debris that may accumulate on the lift or any of its surfaces. For more detailed maintenance to moving parts and electronic components, the best solution is to place a call with Lifeway Mobility to schedule a time for certified technicians to come and perform those tasks, especially if you notice any changes to lift performance including visual or auditory observations.
A vertical platform lift (VPL) uses a lift tower (hydraulic or ball‑screw drive), an attached platform with solid sides, and key‑operated controls.
How far (vertically) can a platform lift travel?
Typically 4–10 feet for residential use; although some units can travel up to 14 feet.
What powers a platform lift?
Standard units use AC power. A battery‑powered (continuous charging DC) option is available to operate during power outages for some models.
Is a concrete pad required for installation?
Yes—at minimum a concrete pad is required. Additional prep may include landing gates and electrical work.
Are platform lifts weather‑resistant?
Yes—controls are weather‐resistant, with specialized coatings. A cold‑weather package is optional for colder climates.
Are “wheelchair lift,” “porch lift,” and “vertical platform lift (VPL)” the same thing?
Yes—they refer to the same product type. Porch lift is a common term when used on a deck or porch.
Are inspections required?
Yes—state inspections ensure compliance with building codes. Lifeway pulls permits and submits for inspection.
Are lift doors required, and what are the requirements?
Doors must meet accessibility codes. For public settings, hoistway use, or all landings, swing doors must be flush‑mounted.
What advantages does Lifeway Mobility offer related to wheelchair lifts?
Local trained and certified experts, professional installation, high customer reviews & ratings, warranties on lifts and labor, service after installation, and lifts made in the U.S. lifts.
What are key differences between platform lifts and inclined platform lifts?
Platform lifts include a carriage or car with four sides, that travels vertically to reach different stops. An inclined platform lift (IPL), includes a flat platform that travels over existing stairs, similar to a stair lift, but is large enough to accommodate mobility devices such as scooters and wheelchairs.
Contact us with any additional questions or to set up a free wheelchair lift consultation.
