In this article we will explore the facts surrounding planning permission for lifting solutions. Before installing a stairlift or lifting solution it is essential to consider the legal requirements and obtain the required permissions.
Planning permission authorisation obtained from your local authority to carry out specific construction projects. Depending on the circumstances, you may need to apply to the local authority for planning permission to install a stairlift.
The cost of planning permission in England depends on the planning consent being applied for. Planning application England have a handy tool on their website to help calculate these costs. Interactive House – What permissions are needed, or regulations need to be met to install a stair lift?.
When installing a stairlift, consideration to both planning permission, building regulations and codes is needed.
Building regulations are a set of minimum requirements that ensure the accessibility and safety of structures. Building regulations provides design guidance and recommendations for structural support, electrical requirements, and space requirements.
Listed Buildings
Listed buildings or buildings in a conservation area are legally protected so local government approval is required before any exterior or structural alterations. If significant exterior or interior modifications to a listed building is necessary to facilitate your lifting solution , such as altering the walls, floors, or ceilings, you may also need a listed building consent. Consultation with the local authority is recommended to ensure compliance with the legal framework and avoid potential legal issues.
If your property is Grade 1 or Grade 2 listed, you live in a conservation area, you are unsure about the outdoor placement, or your staircase is external and structurally unusual then it is best to check with your local council to confirm that no permission is required.
Most Homes
For most homes, no planning permission is required to install a stairlift or lifting solution, whether straight, curved, indoor, or outdoor. Consent is only needed in very rare cases, such as listed buildings with strict conservation rules or your lifting need is for a property with a historically designated structure, or architecturally significant structures that are legally protected.
Stairlifts and other lifting solutions such as step lifts and platform lifts are treated as mobility aids and therefor can usually be installed without formal approval. Indoor stairlifts are considered non-structural home adaptations, so as long as there are no structural changes being made these generally do not require planning consent or building control sign off. For through floor lifts or any lifting solution that does require structural building changes then planning consent or building regulations may be needed.
Stairlifts mount onto the stairs not the wall and can be removed with minimal trace so by nature they have been designed to meet existing building regulations by design. Rail brackets are attached to stair treads not the support structure and don’t impact fire escape routes or load baring elements so operate independently of the home’s structural framework.
If you rent your home, you must get permission from your landlord or housing association before installing a stairlift or lifting solution.