Introduction
Platform lift and home lift are terms that are frequently used interchangeably, but they describe different things. Understanding the distinction matters because the right type depends on your mobility needs, the amount of floor travel needed, whether a wheelchair must be accommodated, and your budget.
What Is a Home Lift?
A home lift (also called a through-floor lift or domestic lift) is a fully enclosed cabin that travels vertically between complete floors of a property through an aperture in the floor and ceiling. It is designed for full floor-to-floor travel — typically 2.5 to 3.5 metres — and provides a seated or standing journey in an enclosed space. Home lifts start from around £13,000 installed and can reach £40,000+ for premium or multi-floor models.
Which Is for Wheelchair Users?
Both can accommodate wheelchairs, but the dimensions matter. Most platform lifts and small home lifts are designed for one standing person, or one seated person, or one wheelchair user without a carer. Larger platform sizes — often described as 'wheelchair and carer' configurations — are needed for wheelchair users who require a carer to accompany them. For full floor-to-floor travel in a wheelchair, a properly sized home lift is the most practical solution.
Cost Comparison
Vertical platform lift (short rise, under 2m): £3,000 to £8,000. Through-floor home lift (2 to 3 floors): £13,000 to £35,000. The difference reflects the structural work involved (cutting through a complete floor versus a surface installation) and the enclosed cabin versus open platform format.
Frequently Asked Questions
A platform lift is designed for short vertical travel (typically under 2 metres) and may be open or partially enclosed. A home lift travels between complete floors through an aperture in the floor and ceiling, typically 2.5 to 3.5 metres, in an enclosed cabin. Platform lifts are simpler and cheaper; home lifts are appropriate for full floor-to-floor travel.
A domestic vertical platform lift for short rises costs approximately £3,000 to £8,000 installed. Full through-floor home lifts start from around £13,000. The significant price difference reflects the structural work involved and the scale of the lift.
Yes, if the travel height is within the platform lift's specification — typically up to 2 metres for most domestic platform lifts. For full floor-to-floor travel in a standard UK property (typically 2.5 to 3.5 metres), a through-floor home lift is the appropriate solution.
Yes. Platform lifts are often specified for wheelchair users because their open deck allows easy roll-on access. The platform size must be sufficient for the wheelchair and, if needed, a carer. Confirm the platform dimensions against the wheelchair measurements before selecting a model.
Usually not for internal domestic installations. External platform lifts may require planning permission as they change the external appearance of the property. Listed buildings and conservation area properties should check with the local planning authority before proceeding.
Conclusion
A platform lift covers short rises (under 2 metres, from £3,000). A home lift travels between complete floors (from £13,000). Find out which suits your mobility needs, wheelchair requirements, and budget.
Written by home-lift-quotes · Content Team