Stair lifts are crucial solutions in addressing problems related to physically disabled individuals, as they can easily move up and down the stairs of their houses.
The decision to regard the need to purchase a stairlift or lease a stairlift depends on the specific need you have, the capacity to finance the equipment, and your other plans.
All these have pros and cons, and this information will help you make your choice.
Evaluating Your Needs
The first thing that a would-be stairlift user has to do when making a decision to purchase or lease a stairlift is to consider his or her needs. Take into account how long you will need the stairlift.
Hence, renting would be beneficial if you have a temporary health issue or believe that your condition will improve within several months. Nevertheless, for secondary diseases or permanent disability related to mobility, a stair lift could be a worthwhile investment.
Cost Considerations
Another aspect is the costs, which play an important role when choosing the type of organisational structure.
The hiring of the stairlifts is in terms of monthly expenses, or hire charges may include the cost of installation of the stairlifts.
The initial costs are lower. However, the number, if aggregated over several decades, rises. While on the other hand, the direct acquisition of a stairlift is comparatively more expensive at inception.
However, there are no repeating rental prices, which might make permanent usage more cost-efficient in the long term of operation.
Flexibility and Customization
Stair lifts are cheaper when rented because the costs are spread over time. If living or medical conditions change, stair lifts can be returned or modified easily.
Leases can be renegotiated or canceled with notice, so they are suitable for short-term requirements.
They are less available/accessible with purchased stairlifts since selling or moving the equipment can be difficult.
Benefits: Buying a stairlift is more flexible than renting one, as one can choose the type that he or she wants. This way, you can select a model that corresponds to your stairs and individual taste.
There is also flexibility in terms of choice; while one can buy the car model of their choice individually, rentals offer specific options since firms aim to cut as many corners as possible to arrive at the cheapest options.
Installation and Removal
Several factors must be met, especially during the installation process, whether it is for a rental or a purchased stairlift.
When the facilities are installed by professionals, the stairlift is highly likely to operate safely and effectively.
Renting usually includes fitting and removal, which is favourable, especially if the use of the stairlift is limited to a few months or so.
If you buy a stairlift that you need to install, it may cost several hundred dollars. However, it will cost you less if you have the stairlift installed.
However, if you want the stairlift removed because you have sold a home or no longer require it, then it will cost you a lot of money.
One should also think twice before opting for a permanent installation because dismantling could be rather problematic and costly.
Resale Value
It is also important to note that if you ever decide to sell your existing stairlift, it has a resale value, especially depending on the age of the model or its condition.
Leasing does not offer any form of investment returns as the charges made enable the use of the asset.
However, it takes some time, and quite often, the gains that can be obtained from resale are not very high in comparison with the purchase cost.
Peace of Mind
Last but not least, compare how much you will be relieved by each of the options. Renting may help you save money because you will not have to maintain and fix items, as the rental company will do.
This can be especially desirable for people who do not wish to be bothered with maintaining this equipment.
On the other hand, having a stairlift was presented as a way of achieving stability and permanence in stair usage.
No questions can be asked about the change of rental terms or the availability of the stairlift, which is yours to use whenever you want.
Conclusion
Stair lifts are important solutions to some of the issues with the physically challenged, as they can easily move up and down the stairs of their homes.
Whether you need to buy or lease a stairlift depends on your situation, your ability to pay for the equipment, and your other plans. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and that knowledge will guide you to the final decision.
Also Read: The Role of upstairs Lifts in increase Accessibility
