top of page
excel-brand-logo-light.png

Wheelchair Lift Inspections

circles.png

Independent Thorough Examinations for Wheelchair and Platform Lifts

Wheelchair lifts used at work or provided for public access must be safe, suitable and properly maintained at all times. Where equipment is used to lift or lower people, the law requires regular independent inspection to ensure continued safety and legal compliance.

​

Excel Inspection Solutions provides statutory wheelchair lift inspections in accordance with the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) and, where applicable, the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER). Our Engineer Surveyors carry out independent Thorough Examinations of wheelchair lifts across a wide range of environments, supporting dutyholders with clear reporting and practical compliance advice.

​

We work with facilities managers, housing providers, managing agents, education settings, healthcare organisations and public sector bodies across the South East and nationwide.

This page provides detailed information on our independent wheelchair lift inspection services. An overview of accessibility focused lifting equipment inspections is available on our Disabled Access Lift Inspections page.

What Is a Wheelchair Lift?

A wheelchair lift is a lifting appliance designed to transport wheelchair users safely between different levels where stairs or changes in height would otherwise restrict access. These lifts are commonly installed to support accessibility within buildings and external environments.

​

Wheelchair lifts may be installed in:

  • Commercial buildings and workplaces

  • Residential apartment blocks

  • Schools, colleges and universities

  • Hospitals and healthcare facilities

  • Retail, leisure and hospitality venues

  • Public buildings and transport facilities

​

Where wheelchair lifts are used at work or provided for public access, they are classed as lifting equipment under LOLER.

Wheelchair Lift Regulations and Compliance

LOLER Wheelchair Lift Inspections

Wheelchair lifts used to carry people fall under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998. LOLER places legal duties on employers, landlords, building owners and dutyholders responsible for lift safety.

​

Under LOLER, wheelchair lifts must be:

  • Strong and stable enough for their intended use

  • Installed and positioned safely

  • Thoroughly examined at prescribed intervals

  • Inspected by a competent and independent person

​

Our inspections are carried out fully in line with LOLER inspection requirements and supported by detailed written reports.

PUWER Requirements

Wheelchair lifts are also subject to PUWER where applicable. PUWER requires that work equipment is:

  • Suitable for the task

  • Properly maintained

  • Inspected where safety depends on installation or condition

In most cases, wheelchair lifts are subject to both LOLER and PUWER inspections.

Wheelchair Lift Inspection Intervals

Wheelchair lifts must undergo a Thorough Examination:

  • Every 6 months when used to lift people

  • At intervals specified within a Written Scheme of Examination, where applicable

  • Following significant repairs, alterations or damage

​

Routine servicing does not replace the requirement for statutory inspection.

What Is a Wheelchair Lift Thorough Examination?

A Thorough Examination is a detailed, systematic and independent inspection carried out by a competent person. It is a legal requirement and must be recorded in a written report.

​

During a wheelchair lift inspection, our Engineer Surveyors will:

  • Carry out visual and functional checks

  • Examine safety devices, controls and emergency systems

  • Assess platforms, barriers, gates and fixings

  • Inspect load bearing components and lifting mechanisms

  • Review previous inspection reports and maintenance records

  • Identify defects that could affect user safety

  • Provide a clear digital report with photographic evidence

​

Where serious defects are identified, we will advise that the lift is removed from service until remedial action is completed.

Types of Wheelchair Lifts We Inspect

Our Engineer Surveyors carry out Thorough Examinations on a wide range of wheelchair lift installations, including:

  • Vertical wheelchair platform lifts

  • Inclined wheelchair platform lifts

  • Low rise wheelchair lifts

  • Internal wheelchair lifts

  • External wheelchair lifts

  • Wheelchair lifts installed in residential buildings

​

Where lifts are designed for broader passenger use beyond wheelchair access, inspection requirements may differ. These lifts are covered under Passenger Lift Inspections.

Why Wheelchair Lift Inspections Matter

Regular wheelchair lift inspections help to:

  • Meet statutory obligations under LOLER and PUWER

  • Protect wheelchair users and building occupants

  • Support safe and reliable accessibility

  • Reduce the risk of accidents and equipment failure

  • Support insurance and audit requirements

  • Maintain compliance in public and workplace environments

​

Wheelchair lifts are often used by vulnerable individuals, making early identification of defects essential.

Wheelchair Lift Inspection Reports and Documentation

Following each inspection, we issue a digital report that includes:

  • Lift identification and location details

  • Date of examination and next due date

  • Summary of checks carried out

  • Details of any defects affecting safety

  • Recommendations for remedial action

  • Photographic evidence where applicable

​

These reports form part of your statutory safety records and should be retained for compliance and audit purposes.

Maintenance Audits and Condition Surveys

In addition to statutory inspections, we offer condition surveys and maintenance audits for wheelchair lifts. These services provide:

  • Independent assessment of lift condition

  • Identification of wear and component lifespan

  • Review of maintenance effectiveness

  • Support for long term asset planning

​

These services are particularly beneficial for organisations responsible for multiple wheelchair lifts across several sites.

Why Choose Excel Inspection Solutions?

  • Independent and impartial Engineer Surveyors

  • LOLER and PUWER compliant wheelchair lift inspections

  • Clear, practical digital reporting

  • Flexible scheduling across single or multiple sites

  • Nationwide coverage through our inspection network

  • Trusted by housing providers, facilities teams and public sector organisations

Decorative image of orange circles

Wheelchair Lift Inspection FAQs

How often do wheelchair lifts need inspecting?

Wheelchair lifts used to lift people must undergo a Thorough Examination every 6 months unless a Written Scheme specifies otherwise.

Are wheelchair lifts covered by LOLER?

Yes. Where used at work or provided for public access, wheelchair lifts are classed as lifting equipment under LOLER.

Is a wheelchair lift inspection the same as servicing?

No. A Thorough Examination is a statutory inspection carried out independently of routine maintenance.

Do wheelchair lifts in residential buildings require inspection?

Yes. Wheelchair lifts in residential buildings must be inspected where they are provided for use at work or by residents.

Related Inspection Services

bottom of page