A through-floor lift (sometimes called a home lift) moves vertically through an opening in the ceiling, from a downstairs room to the room above. For many wheelchair users in Liverpool it replaces the stairs entirely, so a breakdown can mean someone is unable to get to their bedroom or bathroom at all.
Through-floor lift repair needs an engineer with home lift experience. Some stairlift engineers also cover through-floor lifts, and we’ll put you in touch with one who does.
Common through-floor lift problems
- Lift won’t move: often power, the key switch, a door or gate not closed properly, or an interlock fault.
- Stops between floors: safety edges or sensors under the car being triggered, or a drive fault.
- Slow, jerky or noisy travel: wear in the drive system, which may be a screw drive, chain or traction drive depending on the model.
- Batteries or emergency lowering: many lifts have a backup for power cuts that needs checking.
- Remote or call buttons not responding.
If someone is stuck in a through-floor lift
- Reassure them and keep them in the lift car.
- Check the power supply and key switch.
- Check the manual for an emergency lowering procedure. Many lifts have one, but only use it if you have been shown how.
- If you cannot safely get the person out, or anyone is unwell, call 999.
Then call us and say it is urgent.
Servicing and LOLER
Through-floor lifts carry people vertically, so regular servicing is essential. In care, rented or work settings, lifting equipment for people usually needs a thorough examination under LOLER every six months. For private homes, follow the manufacturer’s servicing schedule, typically at least once or twice a year.
A service should include safety edges, interlocks, drive system, emergency lowering, batteries, controls and the car and gate. See also stairlift servicing if you have both types of lift.
Under council or manufacturer warranty?
Through-floor lifts are often provided through council adaptations or a Disabled Facilities Grant. If yours was, contact the council or its provider first while it is under warranty. See our council stairlift guide, which applies to most council-provided lifting equipment.
Other equipment in the home
Homes with a through-floor lift often have a ceiling track hoist or bath lift too. Mention everything when you call, as one engineer may be able to look at all of it.
We help with through-floor lift repairs across Liverpool, including Old Swan, Wavertree, Bootle and Birkenhead.
Frequently asked questions
Do stairlift engineers repair through-floor lifts?
Some do, but not all. We'll put you in touch with an engineer who has home lift experience.
What should I do if my through-floor lift stops between floors?
Keep the person calm in the car, check the power and key switch, and only use the emergency lowering if you have been shown how. Call 999 if anyone is unwell.
How often should a through-floor lift be serviced?
Follow the manufacturer's schedule, usually at least once or twice a year. In care or rented settings, LOLER usually requires a thorough examination every six months.
My through-floor lift was fitted by the council. Who repairs it?
Contact the council or its provider first while it is under warranty.
Can a through-floor lift work in a power cut?
Many have a battery backup or an emergency lowering system. These should be checked at every service.
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