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Inclined Platform Lift: Cost, Pros & Cons
The average cost of an inclined platform lift (IPL), otherwise known as an inclined platform wheelchair lift, is $8,500, but installation can increase the overall cost to over $23,000.
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At a glance:
- Inclined platform lifts (IPLs) cost between $2,000 – $15,000 on average, depending on the type of stairway (curved or straight) and added safety features—folding seats, battery backups, etc. Professional installation increases the overall cost to between $12,000 – $35,000.
- IPL prices are generally lower than vertical platform lift (VPL) prices, due to their simpler design and installation for wheelchair users.
- You might be able to reduce the cost of an inclined platform lift by purchasing a pre-owned model, but you’ll need to make sure the platform size and construction fit your wheelchair and staircase.
If you’re a senior or have an older loved one who needs help navigating in a wheelchair, inclined platform lifts (IPLs) are a safe, ADA-compliant in-home solution. Whether you have a curved or straight staircase, this crucial accessibility tool can make a big difference.
But what can you expect to pay for an IPL? To answer that, our team evaluated the average cost of wheelchair lifts like IPLs, as well as the pros and cons of having one installed in your home. Read on to learn more.
What Is An Inclined Platform Lift?
Inclined platform lifts (IPLs) are a type of stair lift that brings your entire wheelchair up the stairs with you, rather than leaving it at the bottom. They can be fitted to both curved and straight staircases, though curved versions are typically more expensive.
Want to know more about functionality? The parts of an IPL include:
- The track is carefully wall-mounted or installed onto a post system secured to the stair treads, allowing the platform to travel up and down the stairs.
- The platform, which can be either a non-folding or space-saving folding platform, provides access from two to three sides and may include small ramps.
Inclined vs. Vertical Platform Lifts: How The Stair Lift Type Affects Cost
Both inclined platform lifts (IPLs) and vertical platform lifts (VPLs) are specially-designed systems that move you and your wheelchair up and down the stairs. However, they do have some key differences:
- Customization and Fit: IPLs function by traveling along your existing staircase, using customized railings to match any slopes or turns. VPLs, on the other hand, move straight up and down—requiring more structural space but less customization.
- Installation Requirements: IPLs generally have a simpler installation, anchoring to your stairway or added support posts. VPL installation might require more construction, including a dedicated shaft, concrete pad, and more, depending on whether it’s an indoor or outdoor wheelchair lift.
- Cost Differences: Compared to VPLs, IPLs usually have a lower upfront cost. That’s because they utilize your existing stairway, while vertical options require more structural work.
Overall, a new inclined platform lift has a price range between $12,000 – $35,000, including installation costs, while vertical platform lifts can be well over $30,000. Consider your home layout, mobility needs, and budget before making a decision on which type of wheelchair lift is best for your home.
How Much Does An Inclined Platform Lift Cost?
The average cost of an inclined platform lift is between $2,000 – $15,000, depending on the type of staircase, manufacturer, model, and additional safety features. Whether you have curved or straight stairs, you should consider the investment carefully and always account for any added lift installation costs.
For example, professional installation increases the estimated total cost to over $23,000, or between $12,000 – $35,000. Want to learn more about what you can expect from individual models?
Examples of Inclined Platform Lift Model Prices
We’ve compared a few popular IPL brands, including their key features, stairway compatibility, and price ranges:
| Brand/Model | Key Features | Curved-Stair Compatibility | Price Range (Installed) |
| Butler Inclined Platform Lift | – Dual-rail design that mounts to landings – Emergency stop button and battery backup – 750 lb capacity – 5-year parts warranty | Straight only | $19,500 – $21,500 |
| Atlas AC‑105 | – Folding seat options – 550 lb capacity – 1‑year parts and service warranties | Straight only | $12,000 – $15,000 |
| Apex Omega IPL | – Keyed controls and emergency alarm – Indoor and outdoor use – 550 lb capacity | Straight and curved options | $20,000 – $30,000+ |
| Solanoma IPL | – Battery backup, emergency stop, and folding ramp – 750 lb capacity – 5‑year parts warranty | Straight and curved options | Starts at $24,995 |
The Pros and Cons of Inclined Platform Lifts
In the realm of curved and straight stair lifts, inclined platform lifts are just one option. If you want to make sure you’re investing in the best wheelchair lift, here are some important factors to consider:
The Pros
- Full wheelchair access for disabled seniors is a game-changer, allowing you to go up and down the stairs without needing to transfer out of your wheelchair.
- Flexible installation allows IPLs to be fitted for straight or curved staircases, indoors and outdoors.
- Safety features like battery backups, emergency stop buttons, and automatic ramps can all be added to the IPL for extra peace of mind.
- No major structural changes are required to install an IPL, meaning you don’t need to invest in an expensive shaft or enclosure—often needed for vertical platform lifts (VPLs).
- May add home value for seniors looking to age in place in their homes, making the staircase not only more accessible, but also appealing for resale.
The Cons
- High upfront costs compared to non-platform stair lifts can be a deterrent, but IPLs are also typically less expensive than VPLs.
- Space requirements for IPLs, even though they’re often foldable, can be undesirable, limiting walking space around the staircase.
- Noise levels during operation can be unpleasant for frequent users.
How To Reduce The Cost of an Inclined Platform Lift
Whether you’re investing in a local dealer or a major manufacturer, there are ways to reduce the cost of an inclined platform lift. From health insurance to special grants, here are some effective methods:
Health Insurance
Certain health insurance programs like Medicare Advantage (Part C), Medicaid waivers, and long-term care plans may help cover the cost of an IPL if you meet eligibility requirements. Always check with your doctor and insurance provider.
Veterans Assistance Programs
Veterans’ Benefits are available to qualified senior veterans, including Veterans Directed Home and Community-Based Services (VD-HCBS) waivers or Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grants. Both of which can help fund home modifications like IPLs.
State Assistance Programs
Often also connected to Medicaid and Medicare Advantage plans, state programs like Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers can help cover the cost of a new IPL. Reach out to your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for more information.
Nonprofit & Community Grants
Aside from state programs, nonprofits, disability foundations, or community-based funding programs can all provide either grants or used equipment to seniors in need.
Manufacturer Financing Options
Most reputable IPL brands offer their own financing plans with affordable monthly payments, but be sure to compare and contrast interest rates to get the best deal.
Tax Deductions
Medically-necessary IPLs qualify under IRS Publication 502 for tax deductions, allowing you to claim the equipment as a medical expense and earn a reimbursement.
Frequently Asked Questions
On its own, an inclined platform lift has an average cost of $8,500 ($2,000 – $15,000). However, including installation costs, that estimation increases to $23,000 ($12,000 – $35,000).
Installation for IPLs typically adds $10,000 to $20,000 to the base cost. This significant addition is due to complex structural mounting, electrical work, and professional calibration for wheelchair compatibility. Curved models can be especially expensive.
Yes, there are IPL brands that can be installed on both curved and straight staircases, indoors or outdoors. We recommend researching your ideal model’s compatibility before purchasing.
Whether or not an inclined platform lift is better than a residential elevator depends on your circumstances and home layout, but elevators generally cost more to install—over $35,000.
Both new and used inclined platform lifts have pros and cons. If you have a straight staircase, a used IPL may fit just fine. However, compatibility for curved lifts is less likely.
IPL maintenance, including routine inspections, cleaning, battery checks, and power outage recovery, costs between $100 – $500 annually. You can help prevent costly repairs by:
• Wiping down the rail and power chair weekly
• Keeping an eye out for loose bolts or odd noises
• Applying lubrication as recommended by the IPL manufacturer
• Scheduling an annual inspection
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