Author Archives: Marketing Manager

Lift Replacement vs Lift Refurbishment: Whats Right for Your Property?

Lift refurbishment vs lift replacement

A reliable lift is essential to building safety, tenant satisfaction, and daily operations especially in high-traffic properties across London, Essex, and the  UK. But when your lift system starts to show signs of age or inefficiency, you’re faced with a key decision: Should you refurbish your existing lift, or opt for a complete replacement?

At VM Elevators, we help building owners and facilities managers make this choice with confidence providing expert, accredited advice backed by CHAS Elite status and years of hands-on experience.

Understanding Lift Refurbishment
Lift refurbishment involves upgrading specific components such as the control system, interior finishes, lighting, doors, or safety mechanisms while keeping the core structure in place. This approach is ideal when the lifts framework is still sound and only select parts are outdated or inefficient.

Refurbishment is ideal when:
-The lift structure is still in good condition
-Only certain parts are worn, slow, or obsolete
-You want to improve aesthetics or reduce minor breakdowns
-Downtime needs to be minimal

While lift refurbishment is more cost-effective upfront, it wont resolve deeper performance or safety issues rooted in older infrastructure.

When Lift Replacement Is the Smarter Long-Term Choice                          Full lift replacement involves removing the existing system and installing a brand-new unit designed to meet modern standards. Though it typically carries a higher upfront cost, replacement ensures full compliance, improved performance, and long-term reliability especially important in busy commercial sites, hospitals, residential blocks, and public buildings.

Replacement is recommended when:
-Your lift has frequent faults or breakdowns
-Repair and callout costs are rising year-on-year
-The system no longer meets current safety or accessibility standards
-You need greater capacity, speed, or energy efficiency
-Refurbishment would only be a short-term fix

At VM Elevators, we specialise in lift replacement projects across London, Essex, and UK Nationwide, delivering expert planning and minimal disruption while ensuring every installation meets the latest health, safety, and performance regulations.

Quick Comparison: Refurbishment vs Replacement

FactorRefurbishmentReplacement
CostLower upfront investmentHigher initial investment
DowntimeMinimalModerate
LifespanModerateLong-term
Regulation CompliancePartial upgrade possibleFull compliance guaranteed
Ideal WhenOnly parts are outdatedWhole system is underperforming

Why Choose VM Elevators?
We understand that no two buildings or budgets are the same. That’s why we never push a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, our team conducts a detailed site survey and delivers tailored, transparent advice recommending lift replacement only when it truly makes sense.

With VM Elevators, you benefit from:
-CHAS Elite-accredited safety and compliance
-Minimal disruption to your tenants or operations
-High-quality materials and no subcontracted labour
-A dedicated project manager from start to finish
-Fully traceable components and ethical installation practices

Whether you manage a retail space, commercial building, healthcare facility, or apartment block, well help you navigate every stage with clarity and confidence.

Comprehensive Aftercare You Can Rely On.
Our service doesn’t stop at installation. Every lift replacement includes a warranty-backed maintenance package designed to keep your lift running smoothly and safely for years to come.

Our aftercare includes:
-Routine inspections under warranty
-Fast-response breakdown cover
-Compliance testing
-Technical support and parts availability
-Nationwide engineer coverage

We proudly serve properties across London, Essex, and the UK with reliable aftercare and 24/7 support.

Still Unsure? Lets Talk.
Deciding between lift replacement and refurbishment isn’t always easy. That’s why our operational experts are on hand to guide you through your options evaluating:
-Cost implications
-Downtime and disruption
-Long-term reliability
-Safety and compliance risks
-Energy efficiency upgrades

Contact VM Elevators today for a no-obligation quotation. We’ll help you make an informed decision that protects your buildings future and your peace of mind.

 

What Building Owners Need To Know!

BUILDING OWNER LOOKING AT AN ELEVATOR

Retrofitting Lifts For Energy & Efficiency – Options & Benefits.

Think Your Lift is Fine? Think Again.

When was the last time you thought about the lift in your building?

If your answer is “when it broke down,” you’re not alone. For many building owners and facilities managers, lift systems are out of sight and out of mind, until something goes wrong. Yet lifts are crucial for safety, accessibility, and convenience. That’s why regular lift servicing and long-term lift modernisation planning aren’t just smart, they’re essential.

Why Lift Servicing is a Legal and Operational Priority.

Whether it’s a residential block, office building, hotel or hospital, the lift is one of the most heavily used systems on-site. Without regular servicing, small issues become major breakdowns, risking safety, legal compliance, and expensive downtime.

Professional lift servicing helps to:
– Comply with LOLER and PUWER safety regulations
– Prevent costly emergency callouts
– Extend the system’s operational lifespan
– Improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions
– Ensure a safe experience for residents, staff, and visitors

Tailored Lift Servicing Schedules for Different Buildings.

Every building has unique demands. For example:
– Commercial sites (e.g. shopping centres, offices) may require monthly or quarterly servicing due to high usage.
– Residential buildings with lower foot traffic might be serviced biannually, depending on lift age, condition, and O&M documentation.

A standard lift service typically includes:
– Mechanical inspections (e.g. pulleys, brakes, door systems)
– Electrical testing (controllers, lighting, alarms)
– Lubrication and cleaning
– Minor adjustments and worn-part replacements
– Safety system checks and emergency communication tests

When Servicing Isn’t Enough: Time for Lift Modernisation.

If your lift is over 15 years old, regularly breaks down, or no longer meets modern energy and accessibility standards, it’s likely time to consider lift modernisation.

Lift modernisation involves upgrading key components, such as motors, control systems, doors, interiors, and safety features, without replacing the entire lift. It’s a cost-effective way to bring outdated systems up to modern standards.

Modernisation benefits include:
– Improved energy efficiency and lower running costs
– Smoother and quieter ride quality
– Enhanced compliance with regulations, including Approved Document M
– Better accessibility and a refreshed visual appearance

Approved Document M (UK Building Regulations) ensures all building systems, including lifts, remain inclusive and accessible to everyone, a legal requirement for public and commercial properties.

Combine Lift Servicing with Long-Term Modernisation Planning:

A trusted lift service provider won’t just maintain your system, they’ll give proactive advice on whether modernisation is needed and how to phase it in for minimal disruption and cost.

What to Look for in a Lift Servicing & Modernisation Provider.

1. Digital service reports with photos and real-time updates
2. Honest advice, not just the cheapest option
3. Fully qualified engineers and CHAS/LEIA-accredited teams
4. Experience with both standard and bespoke modernisation projects
5. Proven track record with commercial and residential buildings

Would you fly on a plane serviced by the lowest bidder? Neither should you take chances with the lift your tenants use every day. Think of lifts as vertical transport, lives depend on their reliability.

Why Choose VM Elevators?

At VM Elevators, we specialise in tailored lift servicing and lift modernisation for commercial and residential properties across the UK. Our CHAS Elite-accredited engineers deliver detailed service reports, proactive support, and energy-efficient upgrades to extend your lift’s lifespan.

From single-building contracts to multi-site portfolios, we offer flexible solutions designed to protect your investment, improve safety, and ensure full compliance with modern regulations.

Get Your Free Lift Assessment Today.

Don’t wait for a breakdown to realise the importance of proactive maintenance.
Contact VM Elevators for a no-obligation quotation and expert recommendations on lift servicing and lift modernisation.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What’s the difference between lift servicing and lift modernisation?
Servicing keeps the lift running efficiently through regular maintenance. Modernisation upgrades outdated components to improve performance, safety, and compliance.

How often should a lift be serviced?
Commercial lifts: typically every 1–3 months. Residential lifts: every 6 months (varies by usage and documentation).

Is lift modernisation cheaper than replacement?
Yes. Modernisation focuses on upgrading critical components, offering performance gains without the full cost of a new system.

Commercial Lift Maintenance vs Residential: What You Need to Know

Elevator

Keeping your lifts in top condition is essential to ensuring safety, reliability, and legal compliance. Whether you manage a busy commercial property or a quiet residential block, understanding the differences in lift maintenance requirements is key to avoiding costly issues.

What Is Commercial Lift Maintenance?

Commercial lift maintenance refers to regular servicing of lifts used in non-residential environments such as:

In these settings, lifts experience high foot traffic, extended operating hours, and increased load levels. As a result, maintenance tends to be more frequent, typically monthly or bi-monthly, and must comply with LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations) and PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations).

Why Is Commercial Lift Maintenance Important?

  • Prevents breakdowns and disruption to operations
  • Ensures compliance with safety legislation
  • Extends the lifespan of the lift system

Explore our Lift Maintenance Services to see how we support commercial environments with tailored plans.

Residential Lift Maintenance: How Does It Differ?

While residential lifts serve fewer users, they’re just as critical, especially for elderly or mobility-impaired occupants. These lifts are typically found in:

  • Private homes and townhouses
  • Apartment buildings
  • Social housing and assisted living properties

Maintenance for residential lifts is usually biannual or annual, depending on usage. Simpler design and lighter usage mean fewer issues, but LOLER compliance is still required.

Key Differences Between Commercial and Residential Lift Maintenance:

FeatureCommercial LiftsResidential Lifts
Usage VolumeHighLow to Medium
Maintenance FrequencyMonthly / Bi-monthlyEvery 6–12 months
Legal RequirementsLOLER + PUWERLOLER only
ImportanceOperational continuityAccessibility & safety

Choosing a Lift Maintenance Provider

Whether you need regular inspections or 24/7 emergency support, choosing an experienced lift partner is essential. At VM Elevators, we provide:

We support clients across London, Essex, and the South East with both commercial and residential lift maintenance contracts.

Call Today for Reliable Lift Maintenance

Ready to ensure your lift systems remain compliant and reliable?

Call VM Elevators on 0800 448 8615 or Request a Quote today.

Explore our lift maintenance services to find the right plan for your property and keep your systems moving smoothly.

CELEBRATING LOCAL HISTORY & COMMUNITY MONTH WITH LEYTON ORIENT COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP

WhatsApp Image 2025 05 19 at 13.25.31

VM Elevators has had the honour of being highlighted as a champion of the local community by our Leyton Orient Community Partnership, for the outstanding support we’ve given to local sporting and STEM initiatives.

‘ In recognition of Local & Community History Month this May, the Leyton Orient Community Partnership is celebrating the rich stories and traditions that define and inspire our local communities.Today, we are proud to acknowledge VM Elevators Ltd for the outstanding work they do in supporting our local community.
VM Elevators Ltd are proud sponsors of West Essex FC U11s. We recently caught up with John Goodman, Service Manager at VM who manages the team, and Daniel, Senior Committee Member at West Essex FC, to hear what the sponsorship with VM means to them.’

Check out the feature here:

On May 18th, our #sponsored youth team West Essex FC U11s took part in a football tournament at Brisbane road, where they had the chance to compete against other peer group teams. We are so proud to have our Leyton Orient Community Partnership highlight their fantastic effort.

John, our service manager and their manager, expressed how proud he was of the team ‘playing at professional stadium was a fantastic opportunity, especially for our O’s fan, Jack. Despite not making the final, the boys left with smiles and great memories’.

For all our community work make sure to stay up to day by following us on Socials @vmelevators

To read more about our news, select here.

 

Passenger Lifts vs Goods Lifts In Residential And Commercial Settings

Elevator in a commercial setting

Understanding the differences between lift types, especially in commercial buildings, is key to developing a safe, compliant and cost-effective commercial lift maintenance strategy. At VM Elevators, we install and maintain both passenger lifts and goods lifts for commercial and residential clients across the UK.

Why Commercial Lift Maintenance Must Be Tailored to Lift Type.

Lift usage varies dramatically depending on the setting and the type of lift involved. Whether your building features a sleek passenger lift or a heavy-duty goods lift, your commercial lift maintenance plan must be tailored to account for these operational differences.

Common Lift Types & Settings:

FeaturePassenger LiftsGoods Lifts
PurposeTransporting peopleMoving goods & stock
Common SettingsOffices, hotels, hospitalsWarehouses, kitchens, retail
Maintenance FocusSafety systems, aesthetics, accessibilityMotors, sensors, load-bearing parts
ComplianceBS EN 81-70, Equality Act 2010LOLER, PUWER (where applicable)
Cleaning NeedsModerateHigh (especially for food service dumbwaiters)

Passenger Lifts in Commercial Environments.

Passenger lifts handle high foot traffic in commercial buildings, from office staff to hotel guests. Regular commercial lift maintenance ensures:

  • Smooth, reliable operation
  • Safe user experience
  • Legal compliance with UK building and safety regulations

Key Features Requiring Attention:

  • Emergency call systems and intercoms
  • Level flooring, handrails and mirrors
  • Accessible controls and visual/audible indicators
  • Regular testing of safety brakes and door mechanisms

Accessibility Requirements for Passenger Lifts.

In commercial buildings, passenger lifts must comply with BS EN 81-70 and the Equality Act 2010, supporting inclusive access for all users.

Maintenance plans must consider:

  • 800mm+ door widths
  • Internal space for wheelchairs to turn
  • Tactile/Braille buttons and clear indicators
  • Ongoing audits to maintain accessibility compliance

Planning a new installation? Explore our New Lift Installations

New Lift Installation – VM Elevators – Lift and Escalator Repair and Maintenance London UK

Goods Lifts: Heavy Loads, Tough Conditions

Goods lifts are built for functionality over comfort. Found in commercial kitchens, supermarkets, hotels and back-of-house areas, they endure:

  • Frequent use with heavy loads
  • Exposure to grease, spills, steam and packaging debris
  • Mechanical strain on components

Commercial lift maintenance for goods lifts should prioritise:

  • Load testing and shaft inspections
  • Cleaning and greasing of lift rails and motors
  • Ensuring that lifts rated for goods only are never used by passengers

Why Cleanliness is Critical in Food Settings

In hospitality and catering environments, cleanliness isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s a legal and safety requirement. Small goods lifts (dumbwaiters) regularly carry food and perishables.

Without proper commercial lift maintenance, risks include:

  • Sensor failure due to grease and grime
  • Delayed service or breakdowns
  • Breaches of hygiene or food safety laws

Maintenance Must Include:

  • Deep cleaning of compartments and doors
  • Motor and rail lubrication
  • Scheduled hygiene checks in line with HACCP or FSA guidance

Custom Lift Maintenance Plans That Work for You

Every building has different needs. A lift in a quiet residential block may only require biannual checks, while a lift in a busy hotel or warehouse may need monthly servicing.

We build bespoke commercial lift maintenance packages based on:

  • Lift type (passenger, goods, dual-rated)
  • Frequency of use
  • Regulatory requirements
  • Specific industry needs (e.g., food service, hospitality, logistics)

Real-World Example: Hospitality Success

A London hotel experienced repeated downtime on its dual-rated goods lift due to overloaded motors and poor usage discipline. VM Elevators implemented a scheduled commercial lift maintenance plan, improved staff training, and installed usage signage — reducing faults by 60% in six months.

Why Choose VM Elevators for Commercial Lift Maintenance?

At VM Elevators, we don’t offer off-the-shelf plans. Our team of CHAS Elite-accredited engineers delivers:

  • Tailored maintenance schedules for every lift type
  • Digital reports and instant alerts
  • Emergency response and breakdown cover
  • A track record of excellence in commercial and residential sectors

Whether you’re running a supermarket, hotel, care home, or multi-floor office, we’ve got the commercial lift maintenance plan to keep you safe, compliant and operating smoothly.

Contact us today to discuss your lift’s maintenance needs or request a free site assessment.

View our Lift Maintenance Services →

VM Elevators set to renew Associate Partnership for another 3 seasons

Screenshot 2025 05 16

VM Elevators | Renewing Our London Stadium Partnership with Community at the Heart

As a leading lift and escalator services provider based in Woodford, Greater London, we are proud to support our East London Community and thrilled to announce that we will be renewing our London Stadium Associate Partnership for another three seasons.

This continued partnership represents more than just branding or presence—it reflects our long-term commitment to giving back and driving meaningful community engagement across East London and beyond.

From grassroots sports to local schools and inclusive industry initiatives, our work in the community continues to grow. Renewing this partnership marks another step forward in our journey to build stronger connections, support local talent, and amplify the positive impact we can have as a business rooted in East London.

Looking for a Reliable Lift Services Provider in East London?

At VM Elevators, we’re proud to be an East London-based business delivering trusted lift services across the region. If you’re seeking a provider who values quality, consistency, and community—look no further.

We don’t subcontract our maintenance work. All services are carried out by our own team of qualified and experienced engineers, ensuring accountability and excellence at every stage. Our engineers not only deliver reliable, real-time reporting—they also build long-term relationships with the sites they support.

As a company rooted in East London, we’re committed to supporting local—and we encourage others to do the same. Choosing VM Elevators means choosing a partner that understands your environment, prioritises safety and communication, and stands behind its work.

Support local. Choose VM. Together let’s Keep On Moving! Read why lift maintenance is vital and click here for a free, no-obligation lift quotation.

VM ELEVATORS x LONDON STADIUM ASSOCIATE PARTNERSHIP

V M Elevators Ltd WHUvTHFC 04.05.25

Exhilarating scenes of VM Elevators in action at the Spurs Premier League game at the iconic London Stadium. May 4 2025 — a proud moment made possible through our valued London Stadium Associate Partnership. As a business born in East London, our connection to this city runs deep, and we’re proud to champion the communities we serve through reliable, expert lift and escalator solutions.

Whether you manage a high-traffic venue, a commercial building, or residential property, VM Elevators is your trusted partner for lift and escalator services that keep people moving safely and efficiently. Community is more than just a word for us — it shapes how we operate, how we support our clients, and how we build long-standing relationships based on trust, transparency, and consistency.

Looking for a dependable provider rooted in the local area? Call us free on 0800 448 8615. We offer routine maintenance, condition surveys, 24/7 emergency repairs, modernisations, bespoke design solutions, and new lift or escalator installations — all delivered with care, expertise, and a commitment to your community.

Check out our case studies here Lift Case Studies – VM Elevators – Lift and Escalator Repair and Maintenance London UK

How to prevent your lift motor room from overheating in hot weather

Screenshot 2025 04 30

How Often Should a Lift Be Serviced? The Importance of Lift Maintenance and the Risk of Overheating In Motor Rooms.

When it comes to ensuring the safety and reliability of passenger lifts, understanding the importance of regular service and knowing how often that maintenance should occur is imperative to the optimal health of your equipment’s life cycle.

Not only is it a legal obligation, but it also helps prevent issues like overheating, which can lead to severe lift malfunctions.

As the warmer months roll in, we’re reminded of one easily overlooked but critical factor in lift performance: the temperature inside the lift motor room. Without proper ventilation or regular maintenance, these spaces can quickly overheat, placing strain on the entire lift system. So if you’ve ever wondered why that six-month lift service is so crucial, here’s a closer look.

Why Lift Maintenance Frequency Matters. It is generally advised that lifts be serviced at least once every six months, though the ideal frequency will depend on a few variables:

 

    • Frequency of use
    • In line with O&M documentation requirements
    • Age and condition of the lift
    • Environmental factors (temperature, humidity, etc.)
    • Type of building (public, residential, commercial)

 

High-traffic lifts or those exposed to more demanding environments may require more frequent checks. Regular lift maintenance not only ensures compliance with legal standards but also reduces downtime, prevents faults, and maintains passenger safety.

Legal Requirements You Need to Know Passenger lifts fall under LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations). These require that lifts are thoroughly examined at regular intervals by a competent person. While LOLER inspections are not the same as servicing, regular maintenance is necessary to support these inspections and maintain full compliance.

Lift owners and duty holders are responsible for keeping accurate lift maintenance records and acting on any issues found during lift routine servicing. Failure to do so could lead to significant fines, legal consequences, or worse, serious safety incidents.

What Happens When You Skip Maintenance? Overheating is one of many consequences of inadequate lift maintenance. The ideal temperature for a motor room should be between 7 and 32 degrees Celsius (45–90°F), with humidity below 85%. Anything above this threshold puts your lift’s motor and control equipment at risk.

A few key causes of overheating:

 

    • High ambient temperatures during summer
    • Poor ventilation or blocked airflow
    • Malfunctioning fans or filters
    • An overloaded lift or one operating beyond its duty cycle
    • Voltage irregularities impacting electrical components

 

The effects? Equipment damage, trapped passengers, or even fire risks.

The Value of Regular Inspections and Maintenance. Routine inspections allow lift engineers to check:

 

    • Ropes, wiring, brakes, and mechanical parts
    • Door function, levelling, and emergency alarms
    • Ventilation and cooling systems in the motor room
    • Communication programs and environmental hazards (e.g., bird droppings)
    • Lubrication and cleaning of critical areas (shaft, car top, etc.)

 

These checks are essential not just for smooth operation, but also to detect early signs of wear and environmental stress that could lead to overheating.

When Should You Be Concerned? Be on the lookout for warning signs:

 

    • Unusual noises or vibrations
    • Doors failing to open or close properly
    • Inconsistent floor levelling
    • Faulty buttons or sluggish performance

 

Addressing these issues early can prevent escalations and reduce repair costs down the line.

What You Can Do Here are a few best practices:

 

    • Stick to your maintenance schedule
    • Educate tenants and staff on safe lift use (don’t hold doors open or overload)
    • Ensure your lift’s motor room is climate-controlled or well-ventilated
    • Keep detailed records of all lift servicing and inspections

 

The Solution: Proactive Lift Maintenance

Preventing overheating starts with routine, proactive lift maintenance. At VM Elevators, our engineers are trained to spot early warning signs and implement effective cooling strategies before failures occur.

Practical Measures Include:

 

    • Installing Climate Control Systems
      A dedicated cooling unit maintains stable conditions year-round.
    • Improving Ventilation
      Ensuring vents and filters are clean and functional supports airflow and prevents heat accumulation.
    • Fixing Underlying Mechanical Issues
      Whether it’s a fan motor, control unit or a worn bearing generating extra heat—our team diagnoses and resolves issues at the root.
    • Using Portable AC Units During Hot Spells
      For buildings without built-in climate control, a temporary AC solution can stabilise temperatures during peak heatwaves.
    • Routine Lift Servicing
      Regular lift servicing ensures all components, including cooling fans, wiring, and ventilation systems, are in top condition.

 

Partner with Professionals. Always use a qualified, experienced lift maintenance provider—like VM Elevators. Our engineers are trained not only to service lifts but to assess environmental factors that could cause system stress. And while we don’t carry out LOLER inspections ourselves, we will always work closely with third-party inspectors to make sure you’re always one step ahead of compliance.

Lift maintenance isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about protecting your passengers, extending the lifespan of your equipment, and keeping everything running safely and smoothly.

Need a lift health check before the summer peak? We’re here to help.

 

 

VM Elevators Brings You Leyton Orient StatZone

Statzone

Crunching numbers after another big win 😉!!

Welcome to Statzone, brought to you by us, VM Elevators, proudly supporting our local community through our Leyton Orient Community Partnership.

From possession to passing, we’re diving into the key stats that made the difference on the pitch ⚽.

Just like in football, every detail matters—whether it’s precision in passing or precision in lift maintenance. If you’re based in East London and need expert lift or escalator services, join our growing portfolio of clients.

📞 Call us on 0800 448 8615—your trusted local specialists, keeping East London moving.

Get a free no obligation quotation: Get Quote – VM Elevators – Lift and Escalator Repair and Maintenance London UK

 

VM ELEVATORS’ FEATURED IN HSE PEOPLE ONLINE

Increase your sales with an online store (6)

Fantastic coverage for VM Elevators in HSE People!

We’re proud to be featured in HSE People online, highlighting our achievement in securing CHAS Elite accreditation. This recognition reinforces our commitment to safety, compliance, and industry best practices across our lift maintenance, modernisation, and installation projects.

CHAS Elite is the highest standard of accreditation, ensuring we meet strict risk management and supply chain compliance requirements. This not only enhances trust and efficiency but also makes it easier for clients to work with us, knowing we prioritise safety, quality, and transparency.

A great piece of coverage recognising the hard work of our team in maintaining the highest industry standards!

📖 Read the full article here: VM Elevators Secures CHAS Elite Certification to Enhance Compliance & Growth – HSE People

Find out more about us, our accreditations and 100% safety record.

Contact us on 0800 448 8615 for a free non obligation quotation or via our webform.

Keep on moving with VM Elevators