Stair Lift Installation on Vancouver Island
Straight stair lifts: $3,500-$6,000. Curved: $10,000-$15,000. RAHA-eligible with OT assessment. Same-day installation for straight models.
Find Stair Lift InstallersA stair lift (also called chair lift or stairlift) is a motorized chair that travels along a rail mounted to your staircase. Straight stair lifts cost $3,500-$6,000 installed on Vancouver Island. Curved stair lifts (for stairs with turns or landings) cost $10,000-$15,000 due to custom rail fabrication. Both are RAHA-eligible with an OT assessment.
$3,500–$6,000
Straight stair lift installed
Industry average
$10,000–$15,000
Curved stair lift installed
Industry average
2–4 hours
Straight lift installation time
Industry average
2–4 weeks
Curved lift lead time (custom rail)
Industry average
300–400 lbs
Typical weight capacity
Industry standard
The Context
The alternative to moving or selling
When stairs become difficult, most people think they need to sell their multi-level home. They don't. A stair lift costs $3,500-$15,000; selling and buying a single-level home costs $50,000+ in realtor fees, moving costs, and land transfer taxes—plus the emotional cost of leaving your home. The math isn't close.
Why This Matters
Keep your home
A stair lift costs 5-10% of what you'd spend moving to a single-level home. And you stay where you are.
Quick installation
Straight stair lifts install in 2-4 hours. You can use it the same day. Curved lifts take 4-6 hours after the custom rail arrives.
Doesn't damage stairs
Rails mount to the stair treads, not the wall. Removal leaves small holes that are easily patched. Won't affect resale.
RAHA covers it
Stair lifts are explicitly RAHA-eligible. You need an OT assessment for major installations like this.
Services & Pricing
What you can get done
Straight stair lifts
RAHAFor standard straight staircases. Most common and affordable. Stock rails fit most stairs.
$3,500–$6,000 installed
Curved stair lifts
RAHACustom-fabricated rails for stairs with turns, landings, or curves. 2-4 week lead time.
$10,000–$15,000 installed
Outdoor stair lifts
RAHAWeather-resistant models for exterior stairs. Common for deck access.
$4,000–$8,000
Heavy-duty models
RAHA500-600 lb capacity options available for those who need them.
$5,000–$10,000 (straight)
Stair lift rentals
Not RAHAShort-term rentals for temporary needs (post-surgery recovery, etc.).
$200–$400/month
Local Knowledge
Stair lifts across Vancouver Island
Victoria's older multi-level homes are prime candidates for stair lifts—narrow staircases in character homes often work fine with compact units. Nanaimo and Comox Valley have fewer multi-level homes, but those that exist benefit equally. Our directory includes dedicated stair lift installers and general accessibility contractors who handle installations.
Common Questions
FAQ
How much does a stair lift cost on Vancouver Island?
Straight stair lifts cost $3,500-$6,000 installed on Vancouver Island. Curved stair lifts (for stairs with turns or landings) cost $10,000-$15,000 due to custom rail fabrication. Prices include installation, basic warranty, and initial service.
Are stair lifts covered by RAHA?
Yes, stair lifts are RAHA-eligible. Because they're a major installation, you'll need an OT or PT assessment documenting medical necessity. RAHA can cover the full cost up to $20,000 if you haven't used your lifetime limit.
How long does stair lift installation take?
Straight stair lifts install in 2-4 hours—you can use it the same day. Curved stair lifts require custom rail fabrication (2-4 week lead time) and take 4-6 hours to install once the rail arrives.
Can a stair lift be installed on a narrow staircase?
Most staircases 28" or wider can accommodate a stair lift. The chair folds up when not in use, leaving 12-14" of clear stair width. Very narrow stairs may need compact models or alternative solutions. A site assessment will determine options.
Does a stair lift affect home resale value?
Neutral to positive. Stair lifts can be removed (rails leave small holes easily patched), or they can be a selling point for buyers who need accessibility. As BC's population ages, accessible homes are increasingly desirable.
Get a stair lift assessment
Free site assessments and RAHA-compliant quotes from Vancouver Island stair lift specialists.
Find Stair Lift Installers