Acorn's Stance on Buy-Backs and the Resale Assistance Program
Acorn Stairlifts' policy is a straightforward and consistent one: they do not purchase used stairlifts back from customers. The reasoning behind this is that each new stairlift is custom-built and configured to the specific needs of the original user and the dimensions of their staircase. This customization, particularly for curved stairlifts, makes it nearly impossible to re-fit for a new user without significant modification.
Recognizing that customers' needs change, Acorn offers a “Re-sale Pack” to help facilitate a private sale. This program is not a buy-back scheme but a support service. Acorn assists the seller and the potential buyer by performing a survey of the new home to ensure suitability, and then removing and re-installing the lift for the new owner. This approach is often more profitable for the original owner than selling it directly to a third-party company.
Why manufacturers like Acorn avoid buy-backs
- Customization: Curved rails are made-to-measure and cannot be reused, while even straight stairlifts may need track modifications for a new home.
- Liability: A manufacturer selling a used product would be liable for any potential future issues. By selling new, they control the quality and installation from the start.
- Refurbishment Costs: The cost and labor involved in dismantling, transporting, and professionally reconditioning a used lift, especially an older or curved model, often outweigh its resale value.
Selling your Acorn stairlift to a third-party company
Since Acorn does not offer a buy-back program, many independent companies have emerged that specialize in purchasing used stairlifts from various manufacturers. These third-party buyers often offer cash for qualifying units and handle the professional removal.
How third-party buy-back programs work
- Initial Contact: You provide the company with details about your stairlift, including the manufacturer (Acorn), model number, age, and condition. The serial number can often indicate the lift's age.
- Assessment: The company assesses the stairlift's value based on several factors, including market demand, age, condition, and type (straight or curved).
- Removal: If a price is agreed upon, the company sends a qualified engineer to professionally dismantle and remove the stairlift. They will either pay you in cash at the time of removal or arrange a bank transfer.
Some companies may offer free removal if the unit is too old to be resold but still has recyclable parts. However, if the lift is obsolete, a removal fee may be necessary.
Comparison of selling methods
| Feature | Acorn's Resale Assistance Program | Third-Party Buy-Back Companies |
|---|---|---|
| Buyer | Found by the seller | The company itself |
| Financial Return | Potentially higher, as seller keeps all profits from the sale. | May be lower, as the company must factor in refurbishment and profit. |
| Responsibility | Seller is responsible for finding a buyer, though Acorn provides support. | Company takes full responsibility for the purchase and removal process. |
| Removal | Acorn handles professional removal and reinstallation for the buyer. | Company arranges for professional removal, sometimes for free. |
| Effort Required | More effort required from the seller to find a buyer and manage the sale. | Less effort for the seller; a quick, hassle-free process. |
| Best For... | Newer lifts and patient sellers willing to manage the private sale process. | Quick, guaranteed sale for hassle-free removal. |
Important considerations when selling a used stairlift
1. Condition and Age: As stairlift technology and safety standards evolve, the value of older models can diminish significantly. Most third-party buyers are only interested in lifts that are a few years old and in excellent, working condition.
2. Type of Stairlift: Curved stairlifts, with their custom-built tracks, have little-to-no resale value for the track itself. Resale is limited to the chair and carriage parts, making them less valuable to third-party companies. Straight stairlifts are easier to resell, as the rails can often be cut to a shorter length for a new installation.
3. Safety: Never attempt to remove a stairlift yourself. Electrical work and dismantling require a qualified engineer to ensure safety and avoid property damage. Any company you work with should be a reputable installer with proper insurance and a registered waste carrier's license.
Conclusion
If you have a used Acorn stairlift, the official manufacturer will not buy it back. Your best options are to utilize Acorn's resale assistance program for a potential private sale or to contact independent stairlift buy-back companies for a fast and professional removal. Your success and financial return will depend heavily on your stairlift's age, condition, and whether it was a straight or custom-built curved model.
