How do I sell my stairlift or accessibility lift business?

Selling a stairlift or accessibility lift business is less about the vans and tools than about what a buyer can safely take over. A buyer will want to know that the manufacturer will accept them, that customers will keep calling, and that the people who install and service lifts will still be there on Monday. Get those answers ready before you tell anyone.

Start with the manufacturer

Your dealer agreement may say whether a buyer needs the manufacturer’s consent. Read it with your lawyer, then think about raising the sale with your manufacturer contact before a buyer does. A manufacturer who knows a sale is coming can often suggest a suitable buyer or at least avoid being surprised. Keep the conversation confidential and ask what the manufacturer would look for.

Make the records easy to test

Buyers will ask for the installed-base list, service plans, renewal history, callback logs and warranty records. Tidy them now. A clear list that shows which customers hold which plans lets a buyer see what is recurring and what is one-off. Your accountant can help you present installation and service income separately, and explain any stock you hold for rental or resale.

Keep the people and the referrals

Installers and technicians are often the part of the business a buyer worries about most. Decide how and when to tell them, and whether retention arrangements make sense. Make a list of the therapists, home care providers and contractors who send you work, and offer to introduce a buyer personally during a handover period.

Settle past promises

Agree in writing who handles warranty callbacks on lifts you have already installed. The elevator selling guide covers commercial maintenance contracts and mechanics, which is a separate trade.