June 5, 2025
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 It’s a cost-effective way to bring outdated systems up to modern standards.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.
