How do I inspect a medical supply store’s rental wheelchairs and lifts before buying?

Begin with the paperwork. Ask for the full rental list and the maintenance log for each unit, then pick items at random, including the oldest and the most used. Compare what you see with what the record says. A log that shows regular servicing but a unit with worn brakes tells its own story.

On the floor, check what moves and what bears weight. Test locks, brakes, folding parts, footrests and straps. For lifts, look at the mechanism, controls, batteries, slings and safety stops. Ask how units are cleaned between renters and how damaged items are taken out of circulation. Look at how and where equipment is stored.

Finally, ask about incidents. Has any item failed in use, and has any renter complained or been hurt? How did the store respond? Your insurance adviser and lawyer can tell you what exposure comes with the business, and whether further inspection is needed. Plan for replacing units that fail your check, and discuss with the seller who bears that cost. Photograph anything of concern and keep a list, so you can raise it with the seller before the deal is final rather than after.

Key takeaways

• Compare random units against their maintenance records.
• Have a qualified technician inspect lifts and anything that carries weight.
• Ask about incidents, complaints and how damaged items are retired.
• Photograph anything of concern and raise it before the deal is final.