Access Elevator, Inc. recently returned to WGN Radio’s Home Sweet Home Chicago for another important conversation about stair lifts, ramps, home elevators, and what families should understand before making an investment in mobility equipment.
Accessibility is not just a home improvement category. It is a safety decision. It is an independence decision. And in many cases, it is an urgent decision.
During the interview, we discussed several critical points that every homeowner should consider.
1. Accessibility Equipment Is Not a Commodity
A stair lift is not interchangeable with every other stair lift. The same applies to ramps, vertical platform lifts, and residential elevators.
Key differences can include:
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Engineering and build quality
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Safety limit systems
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Battery backup design
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Rail and mounting configuration
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Long-term serviceability
Two quotes may look similar on paper – but the equipment behind those numbers can be very different.
2. The Importance of Local Service
One of the biggest issues in today’s market is the rise of nationwide suppliers that advertise heavily but do not maintain strong local service teams.
When mobility equipment fails, you cannot wait days or weeks for help.
Ask these questions before signing:
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Who services the equipment?
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Are technicians local?
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Are parts stocked regionally?
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How fast is response time?
Accessibility equipment should always be backed by a company that stands behind what they install.
3. Understanding Pricing – What Are You Actually Paying For?
Low advertised prices often leave out important details such as:
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Installation complexity
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Electrical work
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Rail overruns
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Custom fabrication
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Warranty differences
Sometimes the lowest quote does not include everything required for a safe and complete installation. In other cases, lower-tier equipment is substituted to meet a price point.
When comparing proposals, focus on:
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Exact model numbers
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Scope of installation
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Warranty terms
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Ongoing service support
Transparency matters.
4. Why Getting Multiple Quotes Is Smart
There is a long-standing rule in construction – get three quotes.
Not simply to drive price down, but to understand the full picture:
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Equipment quality
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Installation approach
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Company reputation
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Service infrastructure
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Long-term reliability
If one quote is significantly lower, there is usually a reason. Ask detailed questions and compare specifications carefully.
5. Safety and Independence Come First
For many families, installing a stair lift or ramp allows a loved one to remain safely in their home. That decision directly impacts daily life.
Proper installation, high-quality equipment, and dependable service are not optional extras – they are fundamental requirements.
When you are evaluating accessibility solutions in Wisconsin or Illinois, work with a company that prioritizes safety, precision, and long-term support.
If you would like guidance on stair lifts, wheelchair ramps, residential elevators, or other mobility solutions, contact Access Elevator, Inc. Our goal is simple – deliver reliable equipment, install it correctly, and support it locally for years to come.