What should a stair lift quote in Ottawa include?

A fair stair lift quote covers more than the lift itself. Here is what to look for before you sign.

The quote should name the specific model being supplied, the price of the unit, and the installation labour as separate line items so you can see exactly what you are paying for each. Ask whether the price includes removing and reinstalling any stair railings that need to come off during the work, and whether it covers patching any wall or floor damage left after installation.

What the quote should spell out

• The make and model of the lift being supplied.
• All installation labour, including any carpentry to the stair or wall.
• The rail configuration: straight stairs and curved stairs are priced differently. Published 2025-26 prices show straight stair lifts installed at roughly $3,000 to $6,000; curved stair lifts run roughly $10,000 to $15,000 or more, and complex stairs cost more.
• What is included in the warranty, who performs warranty service, and whether service calls after the warranty period are billed at a flat rate or by the hour.
• A clear payment schedule, including the deposit amount and when the balance is due.

Ask the contractor who checks with the City about permits. Work that opens a wall or floor may be a structural alteration, which is on the permit list, so describe it to the City. Ontario Regulation 209/01 does not apply to a stair lift in a private dwelling house used only by the occupants and their guests, unless the owner asks in writing for it to apply, and TSSA notes that exempt devices may still be regulated by other bodies.

Get at least two written quotes. Under the Consumer Protection Act, 2002, if a salesperson comes to your home and the agreement is over $50, it must be in writing and you have 10 days after receiving the written copy to cancel without any reason. If the quote includes an estimate, the contractor cannot charge more than 10 per cent above it. Ask for photo ID and the full business name before any salesperson enters your home.