Home Elevating Devices

Although we do not directly regulate the installation of these devices, the manufacturing, installation and maintenance of the devices must be completed according to Canadian Standards Association code to ensure the safety of users.

The elevating device must comply with one of the following Canadian Standards Association codes:

The design of a lift or residential elevator installation is typically complex, involving architectural, structural and electrical elements. It is not a project to be tackled by a handyman.

Start by researching local medical equipment suppliers and elevating contractors who offer lifts and residential elevators. Ask friends and professionals for recommendations and contact the Better Business Bureau to ensure the supplier is in good standing. Use our Find a licensed contractor tool to find a class H elevating contractor who specializes in these devices. Although not mandatory, we recommend having the contractor make a home visit so they can make recommendations on the feasibility of different types of lifts and residential elevators. Most contractors offer this at no charge. If possible, also arrange for a health professional such as a physiotherapist or occupational therapist to be present for the site visit. They can help ensure that the type of device being recommended will meet your current and future needs.

• Vertical Platform Lift (enclosed or unenclosed)
• Incline Platform Lift (curved or straight)
• Stair Chair Lift (curved or straight)
• Residential Elevator

Purchasing a lift or elevating device is a major investment and gathering some key information can help you make an informed decision. Before purchasing a device, consider the following:

• Do I want to purchase new or used?
• If I am purchasing a used device, how can I ensure that it is safe to install/use?
• Is the device manufactured according to the most recent Canadian codes?
• What are the safety features of the device?
• Will I need a building or electrical permit to install the device?
• Is the contractor or subcontractor I hire licensed and/or experienced with this type of installation?

The following features are essential for ensuring your safety and the safety of others living in or visiting your home:

• Doors and gates: All vertical lifts should be equipped with a door/gate at each landing. The door design should incorporate a certified interlock and eliminate any pinching or shearing hazards
• Interlock mechanisms on doors and gates. This device prevents operation of the drive unit unless the door or gate on the landing is locked in the closed position
• Operation controls: All lifts are required to have constant pressure controls, elevators can have one touch controls. It is dangerous to have automatic operation on unenclosed platforms and lifts.
• Stopping devices: The lift should be equipped with stopping devices to stop the lift at landings and in some cases when the lift travels beyond its normal landings.
• Safeties: Safeties stop the lift and holds it in position in the event of suspension or drive failure. Ascending car protection is required in addition to safeties on “Traction Drive Units”.
• A manual lowering or raising system: This is necessary in case of a power outage or a mechanical malfunction. An emergency battery backup system is also a good option.
• Safety edges/surfaces: Where potential shearing (cutting), crushing, trapping or abrading hazards exist, the lift should be equipped with safety edges, surfaces or sensors. This will stop the lift if any obstructions are encountered.
• Safe platforms: Including handrails, adequate lighting, emergency backup lighting and a smooth platform surface that is free of tripping hazards.
• Communication: An emergency telephone or other communication system in case of emergency or entrapment.
• General design: The equipment should be designed in a way that protects the user and anyone nearby from falling, tripping, physical shock, electric shock and fire.

Obtaining a trustworthy contractor/installer is just as essential as purchasing a safe device. The following are steps you can take that will help ensure you have the right person for the job.

• Ask for estimates from at least three different suppliers/contractors in order to assess a reasonable charge for installation.
• Check into the credentials of the seller, the manufacturer and the installer by asking for letters of recommendation or checking their status with the Better Business Bureau.
• Ask them to explain how their products comply to the related Canadian Standards code (the code that relates to the type of device you are installing).
• Ask them if they will provide (and sign off on) an affidavit stating that the work they have performed meets the Canadian standards.
• Ask how long they have been in business.
• How many lifts or elevators they have already installed.
• Check to ensure that your contractor is licensed and in good standing.

Other than for the simplest stair lift installations, you will likely need a building permit. A building permit is necessary whenever the installation of a lift or residential elevator requires structural changes to the house or affects safety systems such as stairs, fire separations, and guardrails. Electrical permits are required when any changes are made to electrical wiring in your home. Contact your municipal office and ask a building inspector about safety standards, licensing and inspection for residential lifts and elevators.

Lifts and elevators in private residences are not regulated by any provincial or municipal authority. As a result, consumers should do their due diligence in choosing the supplier and manufacturer. Ask for these two things as a minimum:

• Equipment Code compliance certificates for the equipment: Some manufacturers will even provide professional engineer stamped letters and drawings.
• Installation Code compliance certificates for installation: This letter or affidavit will ensure that the installer had installed the equipment in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications and meets all the code requirements.

Lifts and residential elevators are mechanical devices that can break down and therefore need regular servicing. Maintenance is generally complex and should be done by an expert. The manufacturer must give you a recommended maintenance schedule, which may be in the form of a manual.

To ensure your device is serviced on a regular basis, you may want to consider purchasing a maintenance contract from a reputable supplier or entering into a maintenance and service contract with a contractor who has the appropriate licence are good options to consider.