May 29, 2025
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:
| Feature | Passenger Lifts | Goods Lifts |
| Purpose | Transporting people | Moving goods & stock |
| Common Settings | Offices, hotels, hospitals | Warehouses, kitchens, retail |
| Maintenance Focus | Safety systems, aesthetics, accessibility | Motors, sensors, load-bearing parts |
| Compliance | BS EN 81-70, Equality Act 2010 | LOLER, PUWER (where applicable) |
| Cleaning Needs | Moderate | High (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.
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