Frequently Asked Questions
Everything Australian homeowners ask about residential lifts, our comparison service, and the process of getting one installed.
About Prestige Home Lifts
What is Prestige Home Lifts?
Prestige Home Lifts is an independent comparison platform that helps Australian homeowners find the right home lift at the right price. We connect you with vetted, reputable providers who match your project requirements. We do not sell, install, or service lifts ourselves.
Is your service genuinely free for homeowners?
Yes. Our comparison and quote service costs homeowners absolutely nothing. There are no hidden charges and no strings attached. Home lift providers pay a referral fee when matched with genuine enquiries, which means providers compete for your business while you benefit from a free service.
How do you select the providers you work with?
Every provider on our platform has been assessed for business credentials, product quality, service track record, and geographic coverage. We list over 92 providers across all Australian states and territories, spanning all major lift types and price points. We do not accept every applicant.
Cost and Pricing
How much does a home lift cost in Australia?
Costs vary significantly depending on lift type, number of floors, drive system, and finishes. As a general guide: stairlifts range from $4,500 to $25,000+, no-shaft lifts from $25,000 to $55,000+, shaft-based elevators from $45,000 to $100,000+, and vacuum elevators from $55,000 to $115,000+. These are indicative estimates only -- always request direct quotes for accurate pricing. See our Cost Guide for a full breakdown.
What is the most affordable type of home lift?
Straight stairlifts are typically the most budget-friendly option, starting from around $4,500 installed. For a full cabin-style residential lift, no-shaft (through-floor) lifts generally offer the lowest entry price, starting around $25,000. However, pricing always depends on your specific requirements and the provider you choose.
How much does it cost to maintain a home lift annually?
Annual servicing typically costs between $300 and $1,200 depending on the lift type, drive system, and your service agreement. Most manufacturers recommend one or two inspections per year. Electricity costs add roughly $100 to $300 annually, as residential lifts consume minimal power.
Does the NDIS fund home lifts?
The NDIS may fund home lifts for eligible participants under the Home Modifications or Assistive Technology categories. Approval depends on your individual plan, an occupational therapist assessment, and whether the modification is deemed reasonable and necessary. Speak with your NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator for guidance. DVA funding may also be available for eligible veterans.
Installation and Lift Types
Can a home lift be installed in an existing house?
Absolutely. Many modern home lifts are specifically designed for retrofit installation in existing homes. No-shaft lifts, vacuum elevators, and stairlifts can typically be installed with minimal structural modification. Even shaft-based elevators can be retrofitted, though they may require more significant construction work. A provider will assess your property and recommend the best approach.
How long does installation take?
Installation timelines vary by lift type. Stairlifts can be installed in 2-4 hours. No-shaft through-floor lifts typically take 1-3 days. Vacuum elevators require 2-4 days. Shaft-based home elevators may take 3-10 days depending on complexity. These are on-site installation times only -- shaft construction or structural preparation may add additional time.
Do I need council approval for a home lift?
Requirements vary by state and local council. Most home lifts require a building permit or development application. Some through-floor lifts and stairlifts may be classified as exempt or complying development in certain jurisdictions. Your chosen provider will typically advise on the approvals required for your specific installation. All passenger lifts must comply with AS1735 Australian safety standards.
What is the difference between a no-shaft lift and a home elevator?
A no-shaft (through-floor) lift travels between floors through a compact floor opening without requiring a traditional shaft. They are generally limited to 1-2 floors and are ideal for retrofitting. A shaft-based home elevator uses a dedicated shaft, can travel 2-5 floors, offers larger cabins, faster speeds, and more premium finishes. Home elevators are typically the preferred choice for new builds and luxury properties. See our Lift Types guide for a detailed comparison.
Does a home lift add value to my property?
A well-installed home lift can meaningfully increase property value, particularly in premium markets and for multi-storey homes. It broadens the pool of potential buyers by making the property accessible to older Australians and people with mobility limitations. The exact value impact depends on the property type, location, and quality of the installation. A lift is increasingly seen as a feature, not a novelty, in Australian homes.
The Quote Process
How does your quote process work?
You complete a brief questionnaire about your lift requirements, property, and location -- it takes under 2 minutes. We then match you with suitable providers from our network. Those providers contact you directly with tailored, no-obligation quotes. You compare the quotes and decide on your terms. There is no cost to you at any point.
How many quotes will I receive?
The number of quotes depends on your location and the type of lift you are looking for. In metropolitan areas, you can typically expect 2-3 competitive quotes. In regional areas, fewer providers may be available, but we always aim to deliver the strongest possible match.
What happens to my personal information?
Your information is shared only with matched home lift providers so they can contact you with quotes. We do not sell your data to third parties or use it for unrelated marketing. Personal contact details are automatically deleted from our systems after 14 days. Full details are available in our Privacy Policy.
Can I use your service if I am just researching?
Of course. Many homeowners use Prestige Home Lifts during the research phase, well before they are ready to proceed. Our guides, provider directory, and comparison tools are available to everyone. If you submit a quote request, providers will understand that you may still be in the early stages of your decision.
Still Have Questions?
Contact our team or get started with a free, no-obligation quote request.
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