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Glass Lift Installation: Panoramic Lift Solutions

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Glass Lifts: Design Options, Where They Work and What They Involve

Most lifts are designed to disappear into a building. A glass lift is designed to be seen. Whether it is a scenic lift rising through a hotel atrium, a frameless glass car in a luxury home, or a panoramic lift making a statement in a corporate headquarters, glass turns vertical transport into part of the architecture.

Glass lifts also come with their own set of design decisions, structural considerations and servicing implications that standard lifts do not. This guide covers the main design options for glass lift installation, where glass lifts work best, and what building owners and specifiers should know before committing to one.

What Is a Glass Lift?

A glass lift is any lift where glazing forms a significant part of the car, the shaft enclosure, or both. That covers a broad spectrum:

•      Scenic lifts with a glazed car wall facing outward over an atrium, façade or view

•      Fully glazed cars running in a conventional shaft, glazed on multiple sides

•      Glass shaft structures, where the lift travels within a self-supporting glazed enclosure, often free-standing in an open space

•      Frameless glass installations, the most architecturally ambitious option, minimising visible structure for a near-transparent lift

All use laminated safety glass engineered specifically for lift applications. This is structural glazing, not window glass, designed and tested to withstand the loads and impacts a lift environment imposes.

Design Options: Structural Glass vs Glazed Panels

The fundamental design choice is how the glass is carried.

Glazed panel construction fits toughened laminated glass panels within a framed car and shaft structure, typically in stainless steel or a powder-coated finish. The frame carries the loads; the glass provides the transparency. This is the most common and most economical route to a glass lift, offering wide flexibility in frame finishes, glass tints and panel arrangements, and it suits both new installations and glass upgrades to existing lifts.

Structural glass construction uses the glass itself as a load-bearing element, with minimal framing, discreet fixings and near-continuous transparency. Free-standing glass shaft structures and frameless cars fall into this category. The engineering is more demanding and the cost reflects it, but the result is the kind of installation that defines a space. These projects are bespoke by nature, designed around the building rather than selected from a catalogue.

Between the two sit countless hybrid options: glazed car fronts with solid rear walls, partial-height glazing, low-iron ultra-clear glass, tinted and fritted finishes, and integrated lighting that transforms the lift after dark.

Where Glass Lifts Work Best

Atriums and Commercial Buildings

The scenic atrium lift is the classic application. In offices, shopping centres and mixed-use developments, a glass lift animates the vertical space, aids wayfinding, and turns an ordinary journey into part of the building’s experience. For corporate headquarters, a panoramic lift in the entrance space is as much a statement of brand as of engineering.

Hotels and Hospitality

Few settings reward a glass lift like a hotel. Scenic lifts through lobby atriums give guests a moment of theatre, and glazed cars lift the perceived quality of the whole building. In boutique and luxury hospitality, bespoke glass lifts are increasingly part of the interior design concept itself.

Luxury Residential

In high-end homes and prime residential developments, glass lifts deliver light and openness where a solid shaft would close a space down. A frameless glass home lift can sit within a staircase void or an open-plan interior without visually dividing it, which is why glass features so heavily in the luxury residential market. Our guide to luxury lifts vs standard lifts explores that market in more depth.

Heritage and Listed Buildings

Counterintuitively, glass is often the most sympathetic material for adding a lift to a historic building. A transparent installation preserves sightlines and allows original fabric to remain visible, and conservation officers frequently prefer a clearly modern, reversible glass insertion over imitation period work. Our article on bespoke lifts in listed and heritage buildings covers the consent process in detail.

Planning and Structural Considerations

A glass lift is a structural project as much as a lift project, and the key considerations are worth understanding early.

Supporting structure. A conventional lift hides its structure in the shaft walls. A glass lift has nowhere to hide, so the structural design, whether a framed enclosure or structural glazing, must be resolved with the architecture, not bolted onto it. Free-standing glass shafts need foundations and lateral restraint designed for the location.

Drive selection and equipment placement. Transparency exposes everything, so machine-room-less traction systems with compact equipment are usually preferred, with careful attention to concealing rails, fixings and travelling cables as neatly as possible. Ride quality matters more in a glass lift, where passengers can see the shaft moving past them.

Solar gain and location. Glass lifts positioned against façades or under rooflights can heat up significantly. Glass specification, ventilation and, where necessary, climate control need addressing at design stage, not after handover.

Regulatory compliance. Glass lifts meet exactly the same safety standards as any other passenger lift, including the Lifts Regulations 2016 and BS EN 81-20, with glazing standards governing the glass itself. Transparency changes nothing about the compliance obligations.

Planning and consents. Internal installations rarely need planning permission, but listed building consent applies in designated heritage properties, and external or façade-mounted scenic lifts will engage the planning process.

Servicing and Maintaining Glass Lifts

Glass lifts carry a few maintenance implications worth budgeting for honestly.

The lift machinery is serviced exactly as any equivalent lift, on a planned maintenance contract with statutory LOLER thorough examinations. The differences are around the glazing: glass surfaces need regular professional cleaning to look their best, which is, after all, the point of a glass lift; access for cleaning shaft-side glass faces should be designed in from the start; and any damaged panel must be replaced with the correct specification of laminated safety glass through your lift contractor, never a general glazier.

Well designed and properly maintained, a glass lift is no less reliable than any other quality installation, and modern MRL equipment keeps energy use low.

Bespoke Glass Lifts with VM Elevators

VM Elevators designs, installs and maintains glass and scenic lifts across London, Essex, the Home Counties and nationwide, from panoramic atrium lifts in commercial and hospitality settings to frameless glass installations in luxury homes and heritage properties. Every project is engineered around the building, with structural design, glazing specification and lift engineering delivered as one package.

If you are considering a glass lift for your property or project, visit our luxury lifts page or call 0800 448 8615 to discuss your requirements with our design team.

Lift Refurbishment: Upgrade & Modernisation

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Lift Refurbishment: What Is Involved, How Long It Takes and When It Is the Right Choice

A lift does not have to fail before it starts costing you money. Rising callout frequency, dated interiors, obsolete spare parts and complaints from building users are all signs that a lift is approaching the point where doing nothing becomes the most expensive option. For many buildings, the answer is not a full replacement. It is a lift refurbishment.

This guide explains what a lift refurbishment actually involves, how long a typical project takes, and how to decide whether refurbishment, modernisation or replacement is the right route for your building.

What Is a Lift Refurbishment?

A lift refurbishment upgrades or replaces selected components of an existing lift while retaining the parts of the installation that remain sound, typically the shaft, guide rails and structural elements. Rather than removing the entire lift, a refurbishment targets the areas where age is showing: the car interior, the doors, the control system and the drive components.

The result is a lift that looks, performs and complies like a new installation, at a significantly lower cost and with far less disruption than a full replacement.

Refurbishment sits on a spectrum. At one end is a cosmetic refresh of the car interior. At the other is a comprehensive programme that replaces the controller, drive, doors and car in a single project, sometimes called a full modernisation. Most refurbishments fall somewhere in between, shaped by the condition of the existing equipment and the priorities of the building owner.

What Does a Lift Refurbishment Include?

Every project is scoped individually following a site survey, but a typical refurbishment draws from the following areas.

Car Interior

The most visible element of any refurbishment. Wall panels, flooring, ceilings, lighting, mirrors, handrails and car operating panels are replaced or re-lined. LED lighting is now standard, cutting energy use and maintenance visits. For buildings where appearance matters, from residential lobbies to hotels, the interior refresh alone can transform how the lift is perceived by users.

Landing and Car Doors

Doors account for a large share of lift breakdowns. Worn door operators, rollers, tracks and safety edges cause the nuisance faults that generate callouts: doors that stall, re-open repeatedly or fail to close. Replacing door operators and fitting modern full-height safety curtains improves reliability and passenger safety in one step.

Control System

Older relay-based or early electronic controllers are a common driver of refurbishment. Spare parts become scarce or obsolete, fault-finding takes longer, and downtime stretches from hours into days while components are sourced. A new microprocessor controller restores parts availability, improves ride quality and journey times, and adds diagnostic capability that makes future maintenance faster.

Drive and Motor

Replacing an ageing drive with a modern variable frequency drive delivers smoother acceleration, accurate floor levelling and a substantial reduction in energy consumption. Where the existing motor is retained, it is inspected, tested and overhauled as required.

Safety and Compliance Upgrades

A refurbishment is the natural point to address compliance. That can include car top controls, emergency communication systems ready for the digital phone network, improved guarding, and any items raised in your LOLER thorough examination reports.

How Long Does a Lift Refurbishment Take?

Timescales depend entirely on scope, but as a working guide:

•      Interior refurbishment only: typically 1 to 2 weeks per lift

•      Doors and door operators: typically 1 to 2 weeks per lift

•      Controller and drive replacement: typically 2 to 4 weeks per lift

•      Comprehensive refurbishment (controller, drive, doors and car): typically 4 to 8 weeks per lift

Lead times for equipment should be factored in ahead of works starting, usually 6 to 12 weeks depending on specification. In multi-lift buildings, works are phased so at least one lift remains in service at all times. A well-planned refurbishment keeps disruption to building users to a minimum, which is one of its main advantages over replacement.

Refurbishment, Modernisation or Replacement?

The three terms overlap, and the right choice comes down to the condition of your existing installation.

Refurbishment suits lifts where the core structure is sound and the issues are concentrated in specific areas: reliability, appearance, obsolete parts or compliance. It delivers the biggest improvement per pound spent.

Modernisation is a broader programme, typically replacing the majority of the electrical and mechanical equipment while retaining the shaft. If your lift is over 20 to 25 years old and problems span multiple systems, modernisation is usually the more economical route than tackling components piecemeal. Our guide to warning signs your lift needs modernising covers the indicators in detail.

Replacement becomes the right answer when the existing installation is beyond economic upgrade, when the building’s requirements have changed, or when structural issues affect the shaft itself. Our comparison of lift replacement vs lift refurbishment walks through that decision.

If you are unsure where your lift sits, the starting point is a condition survey. An independent assessment of the controller, drive, doors, safety gear and car will tell you what genuinely needs replacing and what has years of service left, so you only pay for the work your building needs.

When Is Refurbishment the Right Choice?

Refurbishment is usually the right route when:

•      Breakdowns are increasing but the lift’s core structure remains sound

•      Spare parts for the controller or drive are becoming difficult to source

•      The car interior is dated, damaged or no longer suits the building

•      Door faults are generating repeated callouts

•      Energy costs need reducing without the outlay of a full replacement

•      The lift must keep running with minimal downtime, ruling out a lengthy replacement programme

•      Compliance items need addressing, from emergency communications to safety edges

Our article on the 5 signs your lift needs refurbishment covers the warning signs in more depth.

Planning a Lift Refurbishment with VM Elevators

VM Elevators delivers lift refurbishment and modernisation projects across London, Essex, the Home Counties and nationwide, from single-lift residential buildings to phased multi-lift programmes in live commercial, healthcare and hospitality environments. Every project begins with a detailed survey and a clear scope, so you know exactly what is being replaced, why, and what it will achieve.

If your lift is showing its age, talk to our team about a refurbishment survey. Visit our lift modernisation page or call us on 0800 448 8615 for a free consultation.

Dumbwaiter Maintenance and Lift Service: Repairing Your Service Lift

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Dumbwaiter- Lift and Escalator Repair and Maintenance London UK

Dumbwaiter Lifts: Servicing, Repair and Compliance Requirements

The dumbwaiter is the hardest-working lift most people never think about. In a busy restaurant it might complete hundreds of cycles in a single service. In a hotel or care home it runs from early morning to late evening, every day, moving food, laundry and supplies between floors so staff do not have to.

Because dumbwaiters work out of sight, they tend to be maintained out of mind, right up until the moment they stop. This guide covers how dumbwaiters work, how often they should be serviced, the faults we see most often, and where these small lifts sit within UK compliance requirements.

What Is a Dumbwaiter?

A dumbwaiter is a small service lift designed to carry goods, not people. Typical units carry between 50kg and 100kg, with a compact car divided into shelves, serving anywhere from two to several floors. They are usually loaded at counter height, with vertical bi-parting or hinged doors at each landing.

Mechanically, most dumbwaiters are traction-driven: an electric motor and gearbox at the top of the structure raises and lowers the car on ropes or chains, controlled by simple push-button call stations at each landing. Modern units are supplied as self-supporting structures that sit within a builder’s enclosure, which keeps installation straightforward.

The defining feature is that a dumbwaiter is a goods-only lift with a car too small for a person to enter. That distinction matters for compliance, as we cover below.

Where Dumbwaiters Are Used

•      Restaurants, pubs and cafés. The classic application: moving plated food, ingredients and crockery between kitchen and dining floors, quickly and hygienically.

•      Hotels and hospitality. Room service, linen and housekeeping supplies moving between floors without tying up passenger lifts or staff.

•      Care homes and healthcare. Meals, laundry and consumables distributed across floors, reducing manual handling for staff and keeping corridors clear.

•      Schools and education. Kitchen-to-dining-hall service and moving equipment between storeys.

•      Retail and offices. Stock movement between stockroom and shop floor, and post or catering distribution in multi-floor workplaces.

In every one of these settings, the dumbwaiter removes a manual handling task. Staff carrying loaded trays up staircases is precisely the kind of risk these lifts exist to eliminate, which is also why a broken dumbwaiter is felt immediately in day-to-day operations.

How Often Should a Dumbwaiter Be Serviced?

Like any lift, a dumbwaiter needs planned maintenance, and the right frequency depends on usage.

•      Heavy commercial use (busy restaurant or hotel kitchens, care home service): servicing every 3 months is appropriate. These units cycle constantly, and wear on ropes, door gear and locks accumulates quickly.

•      Moderate use (smaller hospitality settings, schools, offices): servicing every 6 months is typically sufficient.

•      Light use: an annual service is the minimum any powered dumbwaiter should receive, regardless of how little it runs.

A routine dumbwaiter service covers the drive motor and gearbox, ropes or chains and their terminations, guides and rollers, landing door mechanisms and interlocks, safety devices, control equipment and lubrication throughout. Just as importantly, regular servicing catches deterioration before it becomes a breakdown in the middle of a Friday night service.

Common Dumbwaiter Faults and Repairs

The faults we attend most frequently:

•      Landing door and interlock failures. By far the most common. Dumbwaiter doors take a beating in commercial kitchens, and a damaged interlock will legitimately prevent the lift from running, because the safety circuit is doing its job. Bent hinged doors, worn rollers on bi-parting doors and failed lock contacts all present the same way: a lift that will not move.

•      Trapped or misaligned cars. Overloading, unevenly loaded shelves or items snagging in the shaft can jam the car between floors.

•      Rope and chain wear. Ropes stretch and wear with use. Left unaddressed, this affects floor levelling and ultimately becomes a safety issue.

•      Control faults. Failed call buttons, worn contactors and control issues on older units, where obsolete boards can make repairs slower than they should be.

•      Motor and brake wear. Continuous stop-start duty is demanding on drive components, and brakes in particular need periodic adjustment and inspection.

Most dumbwaiter repairs are quick once an engineer is on site with the right parts. The units are simple, which is their great virtue; kept maintained, a quality dumbwaiter will run reliably for decades.

Do LOLER and Lift Regulations Apply to Dumbwaiters?

This is the question building owners ask most, and the answer is worth setting out clearly.

LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998). LOLER applies to lifting equipment used at work, and a dumbwaiter in a commercial setting falls within scope. The key distinction is what the lift carries. Lifts that carry people require a thorough examination at least every 6 months. Goods-only lifts, including dumbwaiters, require a thorough examination at least every 12 months, or in accordance with an examination scheme drawn up by a competent person. The thorough examination is a statutory inspection, separate from routine servicing, and both are needed: one checks the lift is safe, the other keeps it that way.

PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998). As work equipment, a dumbwaiter must be maintained in efficient working order and good repair, which in practice means a planned maintenance regime rather than running the unit to failure.

The Lifts Regulations 2016. These apply to lifts serving fixed landings that carry persons, or persons and goods. A true dumbwaiter, with a car inaccessible to people, falls outside the Lifts Regulations and is instead placed on the market under the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations, CE or UKCA marked accordingly. For more on how the 2016 regulations apply to passenger equipment, see our guide to the Lift Regulations 2016.

The practical summary for owners: a commercial dumbwaiter needs routine servicing matched to its usage, plus an annual LOLER thorough examination by a competent person, with records kept of both.

Dumbwaiter Servicing and Repair with VM Elevators

VM Elevators services, repairs and maintains dumbwaiter lifts across London, Essex and the Home Counties, supporting restaurants, hotels, care homes, schools and commercial buildings alongside our passenger lift portfolio. Our engineers carry out planned maintenance, breakdown repairs and refurbishment of older units, and we can advise on replacement where a dumbwaiter has reached the end of its serviceable life.

If your dumbwaiter is due a service, or has been running without a maintenance contract, visit our dumbwaiter lifts page or call 0800 448 8615 to arrange a visit.

Platform Lift Removal: Decommission & Dismantle Guide

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Lift Removal and Decommissioning: The Complete Process Explained

Not every lift has a future. Some reach the end of their economic life in buildings where they are no longer needed. Some are removed to make way for a new installation. Others sit unused in buildings undergoing conversion, quietly generating insurance obligations and inspection costs for equipment nobody rides.

Whatever the reason, removing a lift is not a demolition job. It is a controlled engineering process with legal obligations attached, and doing it badly creates risks that outlast the lift itself. This guide explains how lift decommissioning and removal works, what happens to the empty shaft, and what building owners need to have in place before work starts.

Why Are Lifts Removed?

The most common reasons we are asked to decommission or remove a lift:

•      End of economic life. The lift is beyond viable repair or modernisation, and the building does not justify a replacement.

•      Replacement projects. The existing lift must be stripped out before a new installation can begin.

•      Change of building use. Conversions and redevelopments often make an existing lift redundant, or require the shaft space for another purpose.

•      Redundant equipment. A lift that is out of use still carries obligations. Until it is formally decommissioned, it may still require insurance inspection, and it remains a safety risk if it can be accessed or operated.

•      Escalator removal. The same applies to escalators and moving walkways in retail, transport and leisure buildings, where changing layouts and passenger flows leave equipment surplus to requirements.

If you are weighing removal against upgrading, our guide to end-of-life lift options compares modernisation, replacement and decommissioning. This article covers what happens once the decision to remove has been made.

Decommissioning vs Removal: What Is the Difference?

The two terms are often used interchangeably, but they describe different scopes of work.

Decommissioning takes the lift permanently and safely out of service. Power is isolated and disconnected, the equipment is secured so it cannot be operated, landing entrances are made safe, and the lift is formally removed from service records. A decommissioned lift may physically remain in the building.

Removal goes further: the complete strip-out of the installation. The car, counterweight, ropes, guide rails, motor, controller and landing doors are dismantled and taken off site, leaving a clear shaft.

Which is right depends on your plans for the space and the building. Decommissioning alone can be a sensible interim step, but leaving redundant equipment in a shaft indefinitely stores up problems: it deteriorates, it complicates future works, and it still needs to be kept secure.

The Lift Removal Process Step by Step

Every project is planned around the building, but a typical removal follows this sequence.

1. Survey and Method Statement

The process starts with a site survey covering the lift installation, shaft, machine room, access routes and any hazardous materials. Older installations can contain asbestos in brake linings, panels or shaft linings, and oils and greases that require controlled disposal. From the survey, a full method statement and risk assessment are produced, along with a programme agreed around the building’s operation.

2. Isolation and Disconnection

The lift’s electrical supplies are isolated and permanently disconnected by qualified engineers, including power, lighting and communication lines. This is the point at which the lift formally ceases to exist as operational equipment.

3. Controlled Dismantling

Dismantling works top-down under strict controls. Ropes and the counterweight are removed under tension management, the car is dismantled in the shaft, and the motor, drive and controller are stripped from the machine room. Hydraulic installations require the ram to be extracted and hydraulic oil to be drained and removed as controlled waste. Landing doors are removed floor by floor.

4. Making the Shaft and Landings Safe

With the equipment out, every landing entrance is securely infilled or hoarded so no fall risk remains. Fixings, brackets and redundant steelwork are removed or made safe, and the shaft is left clean and clear, ready for whatever comes next.

5. Disposal and Recycling

A lift is largely steel, and the majority of it can be recycled. Metals are segregated and processed through licensed facilities, electrical equipment is handled under WEEE regulations, and oils and any hazardous materials are disposed of under consignment. You should receive waste transfer documentation as part of the project handover, evidencing that everything left site lawfully.

What Happens to the Empty Shaft?

An empty lift shaft is a vertical void through the building, and it needs a plan. The common options:

•      Permanent infill. The shaft is floored over at each level, converting the void into usable floor area on every storey. Structural design is required, and fire compartmentation between floors must be reinstated.

•      Repurposing the void. Shafts are regularly converted into riser space for building services, storage, or accommodation for future equipment.

•      Retention for a future lift. Where a new lift may be installed later, the shaft can be cleaned, made safe and mothballed, preserving the option at minimal cost.

•      Preparation for immediate replacement. In replacement projects, the strip-out is sequenced directly into the new installation programme, keeping the building’s downtime as short as possible.

Whichever route you take, building control approval is typically required for structural infill works, and fire strategy implications should be reviewed before any change of use.

Regulations and Obligations

Lift removal touches several areas of regulation, and responsibility sits with the building owner as well as the contractor:

•      CDM 2015. Removal works are construction work, with duties for clients, designers and contractors.

•      Health and Safety at Work Act and working at height. Shaft works are high-risk activities requiring competent, experienced engineers.

•      Asbestos regulations. A refurbishment and demolition asbestos survey may be required before dismantling begins on older installations.

•      Waste regulations. Duty of care applies to everything removed from site, from scrap steel to hydraulic oil.

•      Insurance and statutory records. Your insurer and inspection body should be notified when a lift is taken out of service, ending the thorough examination regime for that unit.

A reputable contractor will manage these obligations as part of the project, but the paper trail matters. Keep the method statements, waste documentation and confirmation of decommissioning with your building records.

Lift and Escalator Removal with VM Elevators

VM Elevators carries out lift decommissioning, lift removal and escalator removal across London, Essex, the Home Counties and nationwide. From single redundant lifts in residential buildings to phased strip-outs in live commercial environments, our engineers deliver the complete process: survey, isolation, dismantling, safe infill and certified disposal.

If you have a lift or escalator that needs removing, or redundant equipment you are unsure what to do with, visit our lift decommissioning page or call 0800 448 8615 for a free site survey.

PSTN Switch-Off: How It Will Affect Your Lift Emergency Alarm

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PSTN Switch-Off 2027: Is Your Lift Emergency Alarm Compliant?

The UK’s analogue telephone network is being switched off for good. By January 2027, every home and business in the country will have moved from traditional copper landline services to digital technology. For most people, that means plugging their phone into a router instead of a wall socket to maintain connectivity. For building owners with a passenger lift, it means something far more consequential.
If your lift’s emergency alarm still runs on an analogue phone line, it will stop working when the switchover happens. And when it stops working, your lift emergency alarm stops being legally compliant.

What Is the PSTN Switch-Off and How Does It Affect Your Lift?

PSTN stands for Public Switched Telephone Network. It is the copper wire telephone infrastructure that has been the backbone of UK communications since the nineteenth century. BT Openreach has confirmed it will be retired permanently by January 2027, with all services migrating to digital alternatives such as VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) or mobile networks.
The deadline for the PSTN switch has already been delayed once, moved from December 2025 to January 2027 to allow more time to protect vulnerable telecare users. No further extension is expected. The rollout is also happening in phases, meaning some areas have already had their PSTN lines decommissioned ahead of the national deadline. If your building is in one of those areas, your lift emergency alarm may already be at risk due to the PSTN switch.

How the PSTN Switch-Off Affects Your Lift Alarm

Most passenger lifts in the UK rely on an analogue phone line to power their emergency communication system. When a passenger presses the alarm button inside the lift car, it automatically dials a monitoring centre or rescue service. That connection runs over the PSTN.
When the PSTN is switched off, that connection is severed. The lift itself may still run perfectly. The alarm button will still light up. But the call will not go through. There will be no alert, no response, and no way for a trapped passenger to make contact with the outside world.
This is what the industry calls a silent failure. The system appears active, but it is incapable of alerting emergency services. It is one of the most serious risks associated with the switchover because building owners may not realise there is a problem until a real emergency occurs.

Is Your Lift Alarm Legally Compliant?

Lift emergency communication is not optional. Under BS EN 81-28, the British standard governing remote alarm systems for passenger and goods passenger lifts, every lift must have a two-way communication system capable of connecting a trapped person to a rescue service within 30 seconds, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The standard also requires automated test calls every 72 hours and dedicated battery backup so the emergency phones continue to function during a power cut.
Alongside EN 81-28, lift owners are bound by the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) and the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, both of which require lifts to be maintained in a safe condition. For residential buildings, the Landlord and Tenant Act places further obligations on freeholders and managing agents to keep communal lifts in safe working order.
Responsibility for compliance sits with the building owner or the management company acting on their behalf. A lift contractor has a duty to install and maintain a compliant system, but the building owner cannot delegate away the underlying liability. After the PSTN switch-off, any lift telephone that depends on a copper landline will be in direct breach of EN 81-28. There is no grace period.
The consequences of non-compliance extend beyond regulatory risk. Failing to upgrade can also invalidate building insurance. Many policies require functioning alarm systems as a condition of cover, and a non-compliant emergency telephone could leave a claim rejected at exactly the wrong moment.

Upgrading Your Lift from Analogue to Digital

The good news is that upgrading does not always mean replacing the entire lift. There are several routes available depending on the age and condition of your existing equipment, from a simple connectivity fix through to a full lift modernisation.

GSM or 4G Cellular Module

For many lifts, the most straightforward solution is replacing the analogue auto-dialler with a GSM or 4G cellular module. This removes the dependency on a fixed phone line entirely, routing emergency calls over the mobile network instead. A roaming SIM card that connects to whichever UK network has the strongest signal at that location provides the best coverage, particularly in basements, underground car parks, or rural areas where a single network may have weak signal. The module should include its own battery backup to maintain operation during a power outage, since digital systems do not carry the low-voltage current that kept analogue lines active during power cuts.

VoIP Adapter or Gateway

Where a building already has a reliable internet connection, a VoIP adapter can sit between the existing lift alarm autodialler and the digital network, translating the analogue signal without the need to replace the lift controller itself. This is often the most cost-effective route for estates with multiple lifts and existing broadband infrastructure.

Full Lift Modernisation

Where the alarm system is outdated, a retrofit may be the right approach but it is also worth assessing the wider lift. If the control system, cabin finishes, or mechanical components are ageing, combining the alarm upgrade with a broader modernisation programme avoids the disruption and cost of two separate interventions. It is also an opportunity to bring the lift fully up to current standards under BS EN 81-80, which covers the upgrading of existing lifts for safety, and EN 81-70, which addresses accessibility requirements.

Act Before the PSTN Switch-Off Deadline

The switch-off deadline has a way of feeling distant until it is not. Demand for retrofit equipment and qualified lift engineers is rising as the January 2027 date approaches. Building portfolios with multiple lifts, mixed-age equipment, and complex signalling arrangements need time to assess and plan properly.
There is also the phase-out issue. Some exchanges have already been migrated. If your building is in one of those areas, your lift alarm may be unreliable right now, not in January 2027. The only way to confirm compliance is to have the emergency alarms in lifts audited.
Planning ahead also means avoiding the scramble. Those who leave it until late 2026 risk longer lead times, higher costs, and gaps in cover while work is being carried out.

How VM Elevators Can Help With Your Lift Alarm Upgrade

We carry out lift alarm upgrades and full modernisation programmes across London, Essex, and the Home Counties, working across every lift type and every sector.
If your current alarm system is using analogue then PSTN switch-off means your alarm upgrade is not optional. If your lift’s wider components are also ageing, it makes sense to address both under a single programme rather than face two separate rounds of disruption and cost.
Not sure whether your lift is PSTN-dependent? Contact us to arrange a site visit

Lift Regulations 2016 for Passenger Lifts and Escalators

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CloseUp of Hand Pressing Elevator Button Person Operating Modern Building Lift

UK Lift Maintenance Regulations: What Building Owners and Facilities Managers Must Know

If you own or manage a building with a lift, you have specific legal obligations that go well beyond simply keeping it running. UK law places enforceable duties on building owners, landlords and facilities managers, and failing to meet them can result in HSE enforcement action, unlimited fines, invalidated insurance, and serious liability if someone is injured.

This guide covers every key regulation and standard that governs lift maintenance in the UK, in plain English. We also highlight the details that most guides miss – including a distinction that could change your obligations entirely.

Lift maintenance regulations

First: Does LOLER Apply to Your Lift?

Most guides skip straight to LOLER without explaining who it actually applies to. Getting this wrong matters.

LOLER only applies to lifts used by people at work.

If your lift is used by employees – in an office, warehouse, factory, or any workplace – LOLER applies in full, and the requirements are mandatory.

What about lifts used only by members of the public?

In a public area of a shopping centre, hotel, or retail space where the lift is not primarily used by employees, LOLER may not apply directly. However, under Section 3 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, you still have a general duty of care to members of the public. The HSE’s guidance makes clear that a similar regime of maintenance, inspection and thorough examination to that required under LOLER is likely to be “reasonably practicable” and insurers will typically require it regardless.

In practice, for almost every building with a passenger lift, LOLER-equivalent standards apply. The distinction matters legally, but not operationally.

The Core Regulations

Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER)

LOLER is the primary legislation governing lifts in UK workplaces. It is enforced by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and creates specific duties for anyone responsible for lifting equipment used at work.

Under LOLER you must:

  • Ensure that the lift is thoroughly examined by a competent person at statutory intervals to meet the regulations 2008.
  •  For passenger-carrying lifts: thorough examination at least every six months
  • For lifts carrying goods only: thorough examination at least every twelve months
  • Act on any defects or recommendations raised – within the timeframes specified
  • Keep written records of every thorough examination

Thorough examination is not the same as routine servicing. This is the most commonly misunderstood aspect of LOLER. A thorough examination is a formal, documented inspection by an independent competent person and it is in addition to your regular maintenance visits, not a replacement for them.

What does a LOLER thorough examination cover?

A competent examiner will systematically check all safety-critical components, including:

  • Landing and car doors and their interlocks
  • Suspension ropes or chains are critical components in the lift installation process.
  • Safety gear and overspeed governors are essential safety components for lifts.
  • Braking systems
  • Hydraulic systems (where applicable)
  • Electrical safety devices
  • Overload detection devices must meet the safety requirements outlined in the regulations 2016.
  • Main drive system components

Examination schemes: the alternative to fixed intervals

Rather than defaulting to 6-monthly examinations, a competent person can draw up a written examination scheme tailored to your specific lift. The scheme may specify different intervals which could be longer or shorter, based on a thorough risk assessment of the lift’s type, usage, age and condition. An examination scheme can be particularly appropriate for infrequently used lifts or specialist equipment. However, it must be drawn up by a genuinely competent person and properly documented.

What is Form F2?

Following every thorough examination, the competent person is legally required to provide you with a written report which is commonly known as Form F2 (or equivalent) safety requirements. This report must be received within 28 days of the examination, or sooner if a dangerous defect is found.

The report will classify any defects found into categories, including those related to safety components for lifts.

  •  Immediate danger.  The lift must be taken out of service immediately!
  • Time-limited defect . The lift can continue in use, but the defect must be remedied by a specified date
  • Observation. Recommended improvements that are not immediately safety-critical

Keep all Form F2 reports as they are your primary evidence of compliance.

Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)

PUWER places duties on businesses to ensure that all work equipment – including lifts – is:

  • Suitable for its intended purpose and for the conditions in which it is used
  • Maintained in a safe condition at all times to adhere to the safety requirements of lift regulations.
  •  Inspected by a competent person at appropriate intervals
  • Used only by people who have been given adequate information, instruction and training in accordance with the machinery directive.

For lift owners, PUWER effectively makes a regular maintenance contract a legal requirement, not just good practice. A lift that is not routinely serviced and kept in safe working order is in breach of PUWER.

Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

The overarching legislation underpinning all workplace health and safety in Great Britain. It places a general duty on employers to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of employees and anyone else affected by their operations – including building visitors and members of the public. A lift that is poorly maintained and causes injury can result in prosecution under this Act, even if other specific regulations are technically being met.

Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (MHSWR)

These regulations require employers to implement processes to identify and control health and safety risks associated with lifts and safety components. For lifts, this means carrying out a risk assessment, implementing a suitable maintenance programme, and keeping records of your preventative and protective measures.

The Key Industry Standard: BS EN 13015

Alongside the legal regulations, BS EN 13015:2001+A1:2008 The British Standard regulations apply that set out the technical requirements for lift and escalator maintenance programmes. It specifies what maintenance instructions manufacturers must provide, what a maintenance programme should cover, and what records must be kept.

BS EN 13015 is not itself a legal requirement, but it represents the accepted industry benchmark for competent maintenance. Any reputable lift maintenance contractor should work to this standard. It is frequently referenced in insurance assessments and legal proceedings when determining whether a duty of care has been met.

Building Regulations and Accessibility

Approved Document M – Accessibility

Part M of the Building Regulations (England and Wales) sets out the access requirements for buildings in accordance with the lift regulations. While it primarily governs new construction and major refurbishments, it defines the standard your lift is expected to maintain. Ongoing maintenance plays a direct role in keeping your lift accessible to all users including those with disabilities.

Approved Document B – Fire Safety

Part B covers fire safety in buildings, including requirements for firefighting lifts, evacuation lifts, and the fire rating of lift doors and enclosures. Ensuring that fire-rated components associated with your lift are maintained and functional is part of your fire safety compliance obligation under the lifts regulations 2016.

The Equality Act 2010

The Equality Act requires building owners to take reasonable steps to remove barriers for disabled people. For many users including wheelchair users, people with mobility impairments, and others,  the lift is the only viable means of vertical access. A lift that is out of service due to neglected maintenance, or that has deteriorated to the point where it no longer meets accessibility standards, can expose you to claims under the Equality Act.

What Happens When a Defect Is Found

Your obligations when a defect is reported are clearly defined under LOLER:

  • If the defect poses immediate danger you must take the lift out of service immediately to comply with the machinery directive. Do not wait. Continuing to use a lift with a known dangerous defect is a criminal offence.
  • If a time-limited defect is specified you must arrange repair before the deadline stated in the Form F2 report. After that date, the lift must not be used until the defect is remedied.
  • In all cases you should keep the Form F2 report on file, document the action you took, and record when the remedial work was completed to ensure compliance with the declaration of conformity.

The HSE can request to see your examination reports and maintenance records at any time. If a serious incident occurs and you cannot demonstrate that you acted on defect reports promptly, your liability is significantly increased.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with lift maintenance regulations carries serious risks:

  • HSE enforcement action – improvement notices, prohibition notices (which shut the lift down immediately), or prosecution
  • Unlimited fines – there is no upper limit on fines for health and safety offences in the UK
  • Criminal prosecution – company directors and senior managers can be personally prosecuted in serious cases
  •  Civil liability – if a person is injured on a poorly maintained lift, you may face a personal injury claim that is very difficult to defend without adequate maintenance records
  •   Insurance invalidation – most commercial property and public liability policies require evidence of regular maintenance and thorough examinations; failure to maintain records can invalidate your cover entirely
  • Reputational damage – particularly severe in healthcare, hospitality, residential property management, and public-sector settings

Selecting a Competent Person

LOLER repeatedly refers to work being carried out by a competent person. This has a specific meaning: the person must have sufficient technical and practical knowledge of lifts to detect defects and assess their significance.

Critically, the competent person carrying out the thorough examination should be independent from the company that carries out routine maintenance. Having the same engineer examine their own work is not considered sufficiently impartial to meet the regulations that apply for safety compliance. Many building owners arrange for their insurer or an independent inspection body to carry out LOLER examinations.

When selecting a lift maintenance contractor, look for:

  • Membership of the Lift and Escalator Industry Association (LEIA)
  • Accreditations such as CHAS Elite, Constructionline Gold or SafeContractor
  • Clear contractual terms covering visit frequency, response times, and exactly what each visit covers
  • Documented processes for record keeping and defect reporting must comply with the safety requirements outlined in the regulations 2016.

Record Keeping: What to Retain and for How Long

Good records are your primary defence in any enforcement action or civil claim. You should retain:

  • All LOLER thorough examination reports (Form F2 or equivalent)
  • Maintenance visit records, including components checked and any work carried out
  • Records of repairs, part replacements and emergency callouts
  • Risk assessments relating to the lift
  • Documentation of defects raised and the actions taken to resolve them

There is no fixed statutory minimum retention period, but five years is the widely accepted industry minimum. Some legal advisors recommend retaining records for up to ten years, particularly for lifts with a history of defects or repairs.

Practical Compliance Checklist for Building Owners

Use this as a quick reference to confirm you are meeting your obligations:

  • Lift maintenance contract in place with a reputable, accredited provider
  •  LOLER thorough examinations carried out at least every 6 months (passenger lifts) or 12 months (goods lifts) are in accordance with the lift regulations.
  •  Form F2 reports received within 28 days of each examination
  • All defects acted on within specified timescales as required by the lift regulations.
  • Maintenance visit records kept and up to date
  • Risk assessment for the lift completed and reviewed periodically
  • Records retained for a minimum of five years
  • Emergency callout procedure in place for breakdowns and entrapments

Lift Maintenance in London, Essex and the Home Counties

If your building is in London, Essex, or the surrounding home counties, VM Elevators provides planned preventative maintenance contracts for passenger lifts, goods lifts, platform lifts and escalators across the region.

We hold CHAS Elite accreditation, Constructionline Gold status, and are members of LEIA – providing the independent assurance that your maintenance programme meets the standards required by UK law. Our engineers carry full maintenance records, provide documentation aligned with LOLER and PUWER requirements, and respond to emergency callouts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Speak to our team about a maintenance contract for your building.

Areas covered: London · Essex · Berkshire · Cambridge · Canterbury · Chelmsford · Colchester · Croydon · Gillingham · Hampshire · Luton · Maidstone · Middlesex · Milton Keynes · Norwich · Oxford · Reading · Southend · Surrey · Sussex · Watford

VM Elevators Ltd is a LEIA member, CHAS Elite accredited, Constructionline Gold verified, and SafeContractor approved. We provide lift maintenance, repair, installation and modernisation services across London, Essex and the Home Counties.

UK Comprehensive Lift Maintenance & Service Contracts

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Lift Maintenance Contracts: A Complete Guide for UK Building Owners

If your building contains a passenger lift, goods lift, or platform lift, a lift maintenance contract isn’t optional it’s a legal necessity. But not all contracts are equal, and the difference between a well-structured agreement and a poorly written one can mean unexpected repair bills, compliance failures, or extended downtime when a breakdown occurs.

This guide covers everything you need to know about lift maintenance contracts in the UK: what they are, what they must include, the different types available, how pricing works, and the contract terms that matter most when it comes to protecting your building and your budget.

Why a Lift Maintenance Contract is a Legal Requirement

Under UK law, building owners and managers have clear legal duties when it comes to their lifts. These obligations are set out across three key pieces of legislation.

The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974

This Act places a general duty of care on employers and building owners to ensure that equipment, including lifts is safe for use by employees and members of the public. Where a lift is provided for use in a workplace, the building owner is the ‘duty holder’ responsible for its safe condition. A maintenance contract is the practical mechanism through which this duty is discharged.

PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998)

PUWER applies to any lift used by employees or in a workplace setting. It requires that work equipment is maintained in an efficient state, in efficient working order, and in good repair. The regulations specify that maintenance records must be kept  and your maintenance contract and its associated service reports are your PUWER compliance documentation.

It is worth noting that PUWER applies only to lifts used in connection with work. A lift in a residential building used solely by residents is not covered by PUWER, though other safety duties still apply.

LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998)

LOLER goes further than PUWER by requiring thorough independent examinations which are like an ‘MOT-style’ inspection for lifts and they are conducted at defined intervals. For passenger lifts, this means at least every six months. For goods-only lifts, at least once every twelve months.

A LOLER examination must be carried out by a competent person who is sufficiently independent of the organisation managing the day-to-day maintenance. This independence requirement is important: the person conducting the thorough examination should not be the same person or organisation responsible for routine servicing, to avoid conflicts of interest. The examination record, known as the report of thorough examination, must be kept and made available to the relevant enforcing authority if requested.

A maintenance contract does not replace the LOLER thorough examination and the two are separate obligations. Many building owners arrange both through the same provider for convenience, but the examiner must still maintain their independence from the maintenance function.

CTA for VM – We provide Comprehensive lift maintenance contracts 

Types of Lift Maintenance Contract

UK providers typically offer maintenance agreements in tiers, ranging from basic cover to fully comprehensive packages. Understanding the differences is essential to choosing a contract that matches your building’s needs.
Packages can differ by supplier but below are a list of the common ones

NEED INFO ON OUR CONTRACTS FOR THE BELOW

 Planned preventative maintenance 

The most basic form of cover. A planned preventative maintenance (PPM) contract covers routine servicing visits, during which the engineer lubricates moving components, cleans door contacts, checks safety devices, and carries out minor adjustments.

Labour for breakdowns, emergency call-outs, and replacement parts are not included and are charged additionally. This tier is typically suitable only for new lifts still under warranty, or very low-usage equipment in low-risk environments.

Semi-Comprehensive Contracts

A mid-tier option that includes scheduled servicing visits plus a defined number of emergency call-outs within normal working hours. Parts may or may not be included depending on the provider and the specific contract terms, this varies widely, so clarification is essential before signing.

This tier works well for medium-usage commercial lifts where the budget does not stretch to fully comprehensive cover, but where unpredictable call-out charges would be a problem.

Comprehensive (Full Maintenance) Contracts

The most complete form of cover, a comprehensive contract includes all of the following:

•        Unlimited scheduled servicing visits

•        Emergency call-outs (typically 24 hours a day, seven days a week)

•        Labour for all breakdown repairs

•        Most replacement parts, including major components such as motors, drives, and ropes

•        Response time guarantees for entrapments and general faults

The key word is ‘most’ as even comprehensive contracts typically exclude certain items, such as vandalism repairs, major structural works, or components made obsolete by age or manufacturer discontinuing them. Always review your lift service agreements for any exclusions carefully.
At VM all of our lift maintenance contracts include contain full transparency so you do not receive any surprise costings during your routine lift service 

Comprehensive contracts are strongly recommended for high-traffic passenger lifts in commercial buildings, hospitals, residential blocks, and any environment where a breakdown would create significant disruption or safety risk.

Bespoke and Tailored Contracts

For larger building portfolios or specialist environments, providers will often agree custom arrangements that combine elements from multiple tiers, set specific KPIs, or include additional services such as condition monitoring or reporting dashboards. These are worth exploring if you manage multiple lifts across different sites.

Contract Type

Servicing Visits

Emergency Call-Outs

Parts Included

Best For

Planned preventative maintenance 

Included

Charged extra

Not included

New lifts / very low usage

Semi-Comprehensive

Included

Limited / in-hours

Partial / varies

Medium-usage commercial

Comprehensive

Included (unlimited)

Included 24/7

Most parts included

High-traffic / high-risk lifts

Bespoke

Agreed per contract

Agreed per contract

Agreed per contract

Multi-site portfolios

What a Lift Maintenance Contract Should Include

Regardless of the tier you choose, a well-drafted lift maintenance contract should specify the following clearly and unambiguously.

Scope of Equipment Covered

The contract should list every piece of equipment covered by name, type, and location. If you have multiple lifts across several floors or buildings, each should be itemised. Assumptions about what is and isn’t included can be costly.

Visit Frequency and Schedule

The number of scheduled servicing visits per year should be stated explicitly. The minimum recommended is four visits per year for a standard commercial passenger lift; high-traffic installations may require more frequent attention. The contract should also specify what each visit covers not just that a visit will take place.

Response Time Commitments

For entrapment situations, industry expectation is a one-hour response time. For general faults, response times of four hours or less are reasonable for commercial buildings. These commitments should be written into the contract with clear definitions, not left as vague aspirations.

Check whether response time guarantees apply only during standard working hours or on a 24/7 basis. For residential blocks or buildings open outside office hours, 24-hour cover may be essential.

Documentation and Record-Keeping

Your provider should supply written service reports after every visit, detailing the work carried out, any defects identified, and any remedial action recommended. These records are your evidence of compliance under PUWER and LOLER, and you may need them in the event of an insurance claim or HSE inspection.

The lift maintenance logbook, which must be kept on-site and accessible to any lift personnel and should be updated after each visit. Confirm that your provider will do this as part of the contracted service.

Parts and Labour Exclusions

This is the area where contract disputes most commonly arise. Even comprehensive contracts will have an exclusions schedule. Common exclusions include:

•        Vandalism, misuse, or damage caused by third parties

•        Works required as a result of changes to legislation after the contract was signed

•        Major structural modifications or building works

•        Obsolescence: parts that can no longer be sourced for older lifts

•        Decorative or cosmetic elements of the lift car

Ask your provider to walk through the exclusions schedule at the quotation stage. Understanding what isn’t covered is just as important as understanding what is.

Escalation and Price Review Clauses

Most contracts include annual price adjustment mechanisms, often linked to an index such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI) or the Retail Price Index (RPI). These are standard and reasonable, but you should know the cap as some contracts allow uncapped increases, which can cause significant budget pressure over a multi-year term. Negotiate a cap of no more than CPI plus 2% (WHAT PERCENT DO OURS INCREASE?) as a starting position.

Entrapment Procedures

The contract should confirm that the provider maintains a 24-hour rescue service for passengers trapped in the lift car. This is not just good practice but it is a requirement under EN 81-28, the European standard for remote alarms on passenger and goods lifts. Confirm that the contract includes remote monitoring and alarm response if applicable.

Red Flags to Watch for in a Lift Maintenance Contract

Not all contracts are written in the building owner’s interest. Before signing, watch for the following.

Vague Language Around Parts

Phrases such as ‘subject to availability’ or ‘fair wear and tear’ in the parts coverage section give the provider significant discretion to decline claims. Ask for specific confirmation of which major components so your drives, ropes, control gear, motors etc. area all included or excluded.

Exclusivity Clauses

Some contracts contain clauses that prevent you from engaging any other lift company for repairs or emergency work during the contract term. While exclusivity is not inherently unreasonable and working with your provider to fix the issue is the best case of action 99% of the time, a clause that prevents you from seeking urgent help when your provider cannot respond promptly is a problem. Check this carefully. Your provider not being able to respond promptly though is a red flag of it’s own.

Proprietary Equipment Lock-In

Larger national providers sometimes install proprietary components or communication systems that can only be serviced by that provider, effectively locking you in at renewal. When procuring a new lift or modernisation, specify open-protocol equipment in the installation contract to preserve your freedom to switch maintenance providers later.  At VM we provided maintenance only in the London and the South East area and the job will be carried out by our inhouse engineers so you will never have this issue with us.

Automatic Renewal Clauses

Many contracts include automatic renewal provisions, whereby the contract rolls over for a further term unless you give notice to cancel within a specified window which is often 90 days before expiry. Miss the window and you may find yourself committed to another year at the same or higher price. Diary the notice deadline from day one.

Unlimited Price Escalation

As noted above, uncapped price adjustment clauses carry real risk over a multi-year term. Always negotiate a ceiling.

How to Compare Lift Maintenance Contract Quotes

When comparing quotes from multiple providers, a like-for-like comparison requires you to look beyond the headline annual price. Use the following framework.

Total Cost of Ownership

Calculate the true annual cost by adding the contract fee to any likely out-of-contract costs: call-out charges, parts not covered, after-hours premiums. A lower headline price on a basic contract may cost significantly more in aggregate than a higher-priced comprehensive one.

Service Visit Scope

Two providers quoting four visits per year may offer very different scopes of work during each visit. Ask for a copy of the planned preventative maintenance schedule,  the checklist of tasks the engineer will carry out  and compare these directly.

Response Time Guarantees

Confirm whether response time commitments are contractual obligations or targets. A contractual commitment carries consequences if missed; a target does not.

Engineer Qualifications and Accreditation

Your maintenance provider’s engineers should hold relevant industry qualifications and be in good standing with the relevant organisations. Look for LEIA (Lift and Escalator Industry Association) membership as a baseline indicator of professional standards. CHAS, Constructionline, and SafeContractor accreditations indicate that the company has passed third-party vetting for health and safety competence. We have all of certifications provided in the footer of our website and on our compliance page which link to our profiles to demonstrate this. 

Independence for LOLER Examinations

If you are arranging both maintenance and LOLER thorough examinations through the same company, confirm how independence is maintained between the maintenance team and the examination team. The examiner must be genuinely independent and a separate engineer in a separate team is acceptable; the same engineer wearing ‘two hats’ is not. That is one of the reasons VM steers entirely away from LOLER examinations and our focus is purely on maintenance and keeping your businesses and operations moving.

Switching Lift Maintenance Provider

If you are unhappy with your current provider, switching at contract renewal is straightforward. Mid-contract exit is more complex and usually involves reviewing the termination provisions in your agreement.

Before switching, arrange a condition survey of your lift with the prospective new provider. This protects you from inheriting any pre-existing defects and establishes a clear baseline for the new contract. A reputable provider will include this at no charge as part of the onboarding process.

When transferring to a new provider, ensure you obtain copies of all maintenance records, service reports, and LOLER examination reports held by your outgoing provider. You are legally entitled to these documents.

Lift Maintenance Contract Costs: What to Expect

Pricing varies significantly based on lift type, age, usage intensity, and the tier of cover selected. The following ranges are indicative for the UK market.

Should we include price ranges?

Lift Type

Basic / POG Contract

Comprehensive Contract

Domestic / residential lift

from to

from to

Platform lift (commercial)

from to

from to

Passenger lift (low traffic)

from to

from to

Passenger lift (high traffic)

from to

from to

Goods / service lift

from to

from to

 These figures are for single-lift contracts. Multi-lift portfolios typically attract volume discounts. Lifts over 20 years old may attract a premium, or providers may require a condition survey before quoting for comprehensive cover.

 

Lift Maintenance Contract Checklist

Before signing any lift maintenance agreement, work through the following checklist.

•        All equipment is correctly listed by type, model, and location

•        Visit frequency and scope of each visit are clearly stated

•        Response times for entrapment and general faults are contractual commitments, not targets

•        Out-of-hours cover is explicitly defined

•        Parts and labour exclusions schedule has been reviewed and understood

•        LOLER thorough examination arrangements are confirmed separately from routine maintenance

•        Independence of the LOLER examiner is confirmed if using the same provider for both

•        Price escalation mechanism has a defined cap

•        Automatic renewal clause and notice period have been noted in your diary

•        Exclusivity clauses have been reviewed and do not prevent emergency assistance

•        Provider holds relevant accreditation: LEIA membership, CHAS, Constructionline, or equivalent

•        Documentation and record-keeping obligations are confirmed

Lift Maintenance in London, Essex and the Home Counties

If your building is in London, Essex, or the surrounding Home Counties, VM Elevators provides planned preventative maintenance contracts for passenger lifts, goods lifts, platform lifts, and escalators across the region.

We hold CHAS Elite accreditation, Constructionline Gold status, and are members of LEIA providing the independent assurance that your maintenance programme meets the standards required by UK law. Our engineers carry full maintenance records, provide documentation aligned with LOLER and PUWER requirements, and respond to emergency call-outs 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Speak to our team about a maintenance contract for your building: /get-in-touch/

Areas covered: London · Essex · Berkshire · Cambridge · Canterbury · Chelmsford · Colchester · Croydon · Gillingham · Hampshire · Luton · Maidstone · Middlesex · Milton Keynes · Norwich · Oxford · Reading · Southend · Surrey · Sussex · Watford

VM Elevators Ltd is a LEIA member, CHAS Elite accredited, Constructionline Gold verified, and SafeContractor approved. We provide lift maintenance, repair, installation and modernisation services across London, Essex and the Home Counties.

How Much Energy Does a Modern Lift Use?

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How much energy does a lift use in the UK?

We look at how much energy a modern lift uses in 2025

How much energy does a lift use in the UK?

We recently revisited an old blog article exploring lift energy consumption and CO2 impact, sparking curiosity about how much progress has been made since then.
The sources to those articles can be found at the end of this article.

Over fifteen years ago, the energy efficiency of lifts and the carbon emissions they caused was an issue of concern. This article will look at how much has changed in that time and demonstrate how lifts are now incredibly energy efficient

Advancements in lift technology have significantly reduced the energy consumption and carbon footprint of vertical transportation in buildings. While older lifts were relatively inefficient, modern designs employ energy-saving innovations that have greatly reduced emissions and costs to run.

There are many types of different lifts but in this article we will explore how much energy modern passengers lifts consume, the carbon emissions associated with their operation, and how they compare to their predecessors.

The Basics of Lift Energy Use

The energy consumption of a lift depends on several factors:

  • Building height and lift travel distance: Taller buildings require more energy for longer trips.
  • Lift load: Lift cabins empty at the top of a lift shaft travelling down or carrying maximum weight at the bottom going up consume the most energy at these points.
  • Lift technology: Modern machine-room-less lifts and those with regenerative drives are far more efficient than older hydraulic systems.
  • Usage patterns: Frequent stops, standby power, and the number of trips all add to the total energy consumed.

Modern Lifts: A Leap in Energy Efficiency

Recent advancements in lift technology have revolutionised energy efficiency, making them greener and more sustainable. Here are three key innovations driving this transformation:

  1. Machine-Room-Less (MRL) Lifts
    Modern lifts often eliminate the bulky machine room by incorporating the motor directly into the lift shaft. This reduces both space requirements and energy consumption.
  2. Regenerative Braking
    One of the biggest innovations in lift technology is regenerative braking. This system captures the energy generated when a lift travels downward with a heavy load or upward with a light load, converting it back into usable electricity for the building.
  3. Standby Power Reduction
    Older lifts consumed a significant amount of energy even when idle. Modern systems use intelligent standby modes, dramatically lowering their consumption during periods of inactivity.

Energy Consumption of Modern Lifts: 2025 vs 2007

Energy Consumption of Modern Lifts: 2025 vs 2007

Using current data, we can estimate the energy consumption of modern lifts and compare it with adjusted figures for older systems based on the same number of floors.

Energy Per Trip

Modern Lifts 2025:

A modern lift in a mid-rise building (5–10 floors) consumes approximately 0.0039 to 0.075 kWh per round trip, reflecting significant energy efficiency advancements.

Lifts in 2007:

Based on scaling down from 20-floor data, 2007 lifts would consume approximately 0.02375–0.0475 kWh per round trip.

Comparison: Modern lifts consume up to 83% less energy per trip than 2007 systems when operating in the same conditions. This improvement is due to advanced technologies like regenerative braking and more efficient motors.

Daily Energy Use

Modern Lifts 2025:

Assuming four rides per person per day (e.g., to work, out for lunch, back, and home), modern lifts consume approximately 0.016–0.3 kWh per person per day.

Lifts in 2007:

With the adjusted energy use of 0.02375–0.0475 kWh per trip, older lifts would consume 0.095–0.19 kWh per day for four trips.

Comparison: Modern lifts use up to 83% less daily energy than 2007 lifts, demonstrating their superior efficiency for regular usage.

Annual Energy Use


Modern Lifts 2025:

Over a working year (200 days), modern lifts consume approximately 3.2–60 kWh per person.

Lifts in 2007:

Older lifts would consume 19–38 kWh annually under the same conditions.

Comparison: While modern lifts have a similar range of annual consumption for lower-end usage, their advanced features make them significantly more efficient under higher usage scenarios.

Carbon Emissions: A Modern Perspective

The carbon emissions associated with lift use depend on the carbon intensity of the electricity grid. Using the UK’s current grid average of 0.2 kg CO₂ per kWh, we can calculate emissions for both modern and older systems.

Daily Emissions

Modern Lifts 2025: 0.0032–0.06 kg CO₂ per person per day.

Lifts in 2007: 0.019–0.038 kg CO₂ per person per day.

Comparison: Modern lifts emit up to 84% less CO₂ daily, reflecting their energy efficiency and reduced reliance on inefficient systems.

Annual Emissions

Modern Lifts 2025: 0.64–12 kg CO₂ per year for 200 working days.

Lifts in 2007: 3.8–7.6 kg CO₂ annually.

Comparison: Modern lifts produce significantly lower annual emissions, particularly for higher usage levels, thanks to energy-saving innovations and cleaner grid electricity.

Future Innovations

Looking ahead, the integration of AI for traffic optimisation, solar-powered lifts, and further improvements in energy efficiency could make lifts almost entirely carbon-neutral. As buildings grow taller and cities densify, these technologies ensure that vertical transportation remains sustainable.

So, next time you step into a lift, rest assured: modern engineering is doing its part to keep the ride efficient and eco-friendly!

Sources: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/blog/2009/sep/04/lifts-energy-take-the-stairs, https://fatknowledge.blogspot.com/2007/02/how-much-energy-does-elevator-use.html

The Future of Construction in the Lift Industry: A Sustainable Vision from VM Elevators 

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Futuristic lifts3


How Sustainability is Shaping the Lift and Escalator Industry

The construction industry is undergoing a significant transformation, particularly in the lift and escalator sector, where sustainability is becoming a top priority. VM Elevators is at the forefront of this transformation, championing innovative approaches that enhance energy efficiency and promote accessibility. As modern construction projects increasingly focus on sustainability, the integration of advanced technologies and practices in lift systems is essential for fostering a greener future.

What are the latest sustainability trends in lift technology?

The lift industry has witnessed a surge in sustainability trends. These trends are driven by the need to minimise energy consumption and reduce the carbon footprint of buildings.
A significant advancement is the development of energy-efficient lift systems, which utilise regenerative drives that capture and recycle energy produced during the lift’s operation. Additionally, the integration of smart control systems allows for improved energy management, optimising the lift’s performance based on real-time demand. The adoption of eco-friendly materials in lift manufacturing processes further underscores the industry’s commitment to sustainability.

How can energy efficiency be improved in modern lifts?

Enhancing energy efficiency in modern lifts involves a multifaceted approach. First and foremost, incorporating advanced motor technologies can significantly reduce energy consumption. For instance, the use of permanent magnet motors provides higher efficiency compared to traditional systems. Furthermore, lift manufacturers are increasingly leveraging machine learning algorithms to predict usage patterns, thereby optimising the lift’s operational schedules. This not only conserves energy but also extends the lifespan of the lift systems. Regular maintenance and updates to the control systems also play a crucial role in ensuring that lifts operate at peak efficiency.

What role does the UK lift industry play in promoting sustainability?

The UK lift industry is actively engaged in promoting sustainability through various initiatives and collaborations. By adhering to ISO standards and participating in sustainability surveys, the UK lift sector is not only improving its products and services but also setting benchmarks for energy efficiency. The industry is also investing in research and development to innovate lift solutions that align with environmental goals. Additionally, partnerships between lift manufacturers and construction companies are fostering the creation of sustainable high-rise buildings equipped with state-of-the-art lift technology, demonstrating a shared commitment to a greener future in urban development.

What is the Role of BIM in the Lift Modernisation Process?

How does Building Information Modelling enhance lift solutions?

Building Information Modelling (BIM) plays a pivotal role in the lift modernisation process by providing a comprehensive digital representation of lift systems within a building’s infrastructure. BIM models facilitate effective collaboration among all stakeholders in the construction sector, including architects, engineers, and lift manufacturers. This collaborative approach leads to precise planning and execution, reducing the potential for errors during installation. Furthermore, BIM enhances the management system of lift projects, allowing for real-time updates and adjustments that can improve the overall efficiency of the construction process.

What are the benefits of using BIM in the construction industry for lifts?

The benefits of employing BIM in the lift industry are manifold. Firstly, the accuracy of BIM models ensures that lift systems are designed to fit seamlessly within the existing architecture, minimising the need for costly modifications. Secondly, BIM enhances communication among project teams, leading to more informed decision-making and faster project delivery. Additionally, the ability to simulate various lift configurations in a BIM environment allows for the exploration of innovative design options that can enhance user experience and accessibility. Ultimately, the integration of BIM in lift solutions supports the industry’s digital transformation, making it more agile and responsive to market demands.

Can BIM improve safety during lift installation and maintenance?

Absolutely, BIM significantly improves safety during both lift installation and maintenance. By providing a clear and detailed visual representation of the lift systems, BIM allows technicians to identify potential hazards before work begins. This proactive approach helps in developing safety protocols tailored to specific project conditions. Moreover, during maintenance, the BIM model can provide vital information about the lift’s components and their interactions, enabling technicians to address issues more efficiently and safely. In a sector where safety is paramount, leveraging BIM technology stands out as an essential strategy to enhance operational safety across lift systems.

What Innovations are Driving Lift Modernisation?

What are the state-of-the-art technologies in lift modernisation?

The lift modernisation landscape is being transformed by a host of state-of-the-art technologies. One such innovation is the implementation of IoT (Internet of Things) sensors, which allow for real-time monitoring of lift systems. These sensors can detect issues before they lead to failures, thereby enhancing reliability and reducing downtime. Additionally, advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning are enabling predictive maintenance, which anticipates when lift systems will require servicing. This not only optimises performance but also extends the lifespan of the equipment. Such innovations position lift systems as integral components in the broader context of smart buildings.

How can sensors improve the efficiency of lift systems?

Sensors play a critical role in enhancing the efficiency of lift systems by providing valuable data that informs operational adjustments. For instance, load sensors can determine the weight of passengers and adjust the lift’s performance accordingly, ensuring that energy is not wasted when operating at lower capacities. Furthermore, motion sensors can optimise lift scheduling by predicting when to send a lift to a specific floor based on user patterns. These advancements lead to significant reductions in energy consumption, making lift systems not only more efficient but also environmentally friendly.

We have covered this more extensively in in our exploring lift innovations article.

Successful case studies of lift installation and modernisation projects

At VM Elevators we have many successful case studies that illustrate the efficacy of lift installation and modernisation. For instance, a high-rise building in London at Pembroke House underwent a comprehensive lift installation view lift installation case study here

We also completed a comprehensive lift modernisation at the Whittington Health NHS Trust Hospital Theatre lifts. As a result, energy consumption was reduced considerably, while wait times for passengers were minimised through improved scheduling algorithms. Another notable project at The Whittington Health NHS Trust – Wood Green Diagnostic Centre involved the retrofitting of an older building with modern lift technology that adhered to updated accessibility standards. This project not only enhanced the building’s functionality but also significantly improved the user experience for individuals with mobility requirements , showcasing the potential of lift modernisation as a driver of inclusivity and sustainability. View lift modernisation case study here

Why is Energy Efficiency Critical in the Lift and Escalator Industry?

What impact does energy-efficient lift technology have on operational costs?

Energy-efficient lift technology has a profound impact on operational costs, making it a critical focus for the lift and escalator industry. By reducing energy consumption through advanced motor systems and smart control technologies, building owners can significantly lower their utility bills. Furthermore, the implementation of energy-efficient lift systems often qualifies buildings for various green certifications, which can enhance property value and attract environmentally conscious tenants. In an era where operational efficiency is paramount, adopting energy-efficient technologies positions companies to thrive financially while contributing to sustainability goals.

How can the lift industry contribute to reducing carbon footprints?

The lift industry can play a vital role in reducing carbon footprints by adopting sustainable practices across its manufacturing processes and product offerings. By implementing energy-efficient technologies, the industry can drastically lower the energy consumption of lift systems, contributing to decreased greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, the transition to eco-friendly materials in lift construction not only supports sustainability but also aligns with global efforts to combat climate change. Through these initiatives, the lift industry can lead the way in promoting environmental stewardship within the broader construction sector.

What future trends are expected in energy-efficient lift systems?

Looking ahead, several trends are anticipated in the realm of energy-efficient lift systems. The integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar power, is expected to gain traction, enabling buildings to operate lifts with minimal environmental impact. Additionally, innovations in battery technology may lead to the development of lifts that can store and use energy during peak demand times, further enhancing efficiency. As the construction industry continues to embrace digital transformation, the application of AI and IoT within lift systems will also become more prevalent, creating smarter, more responsive systems that prioritise energy efficiency and user experience.

Lift Modernisation and Refurbishment Key to Sustainability

At VM Elevators energy efficient and sustainability is one of our core values.  Our approach combines cutting-edge technical expertise with a steadfast dedication to sustainability, ensuring our operations and services align with international standards like ISO 14001:2015. Our environmental strategy underpins our key services and ensures we do our part to adhere to a greener future for the lift industry.

Refurbishing lifts is one of the most effective ways to reduce environmental impact in the construction industry. Instead of replacing entire systems, lift refurbishment or modernisation allows for the reuse and upgrading of existing components, cutting down on waste and conserving resources.

This aligns with our environmental strategy to:

  • Minimise waste products by reusing viable lift components.
  • Source materials locally to reduce transportation emissions.
  • Prevent pollution through careful waste disposal and adherence to environmental legislation.

VM Elevators’ Environmental Strategy in Action

VM Elevators is proud of its comprehensive environmental strategy, which guides every aspect of our operations:

  • Waste Reduction: By reusing lift components and implementing refurbishment projects that avoid unnecessary material waste.
  • Energy Efficiency: Installing regenerative drives and LED lighting, and upgrading office systems to reduce energy use.
  • Travel Impact Reduction: Promoting remote work where possible, and enforcing energy-efficient driving policies for our team.
  • Benchmarking Progress: Our emissions-conscious officer conducts annual reviews to ensure we consistently improve against our initial carbon footprint benchmarks.

Circular Economy and Sustainable Procurement 

VM Elevators plays an active role in advancing the circular economy by refurbishing and reusing lift components wherever possible. This reduces waste and lowers the demand for new materials, while still delivering high-performance systems for our clients.

Our work across many of our reputable sites reflects this approach, as we refurbish and reused existing components to minimise environmental impact without compromising on quality. Additionally, our Procurement Procedure includes environmental considerations, ensuring that suppliers and contractors adopt responsible practices.

The VM Elevators Promise 

Our five-year environmental strategy is a cornerstone of our operations, ensuring that every project we undertake whether lift refurbishment, lift maintenance, or lift modernisation is executed with sustainability in mind. By continually measuring our progress, setting clear targets, and investing in energy-saving technologies, we remain committed to reducing our carbon footprint and promoting best environmental practices across the industry.

Partner with VM Elevators for sustainable lift solutions that balance innovation, transparency, and responsibility-lifting the industry toward a greener future.

Ready to partner with VM Elevators? Discuss our lift services with us today

Comparing Lift Maintenance Providers 101

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Comparing Lift Maintenance Providers in the UK

When selecting a lift maintenance service, it’s essential to identify the type of maintenance that best suits your specific needs. Regular maintenance whether it’s a passenger lift , goods lift or platform lift is crucial and a legal requirement.  Among the various types of maintenance, preventative maintenance stands out, as it focuses on performing regular checks and repairs to prevent potential breakdowns. This proactive approach can significantly reduce the likelihood of unexpected lift repairs, ensuring that your lift operates efficiently and safely. Additionally, understanding the different maintenance contracts available can help you choose the right lift maintenance service tailored to your operational requirements.

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