Why LOLER Examinations Matter for Care Homes and Independent Living

If you run a care home or rely on a home lift for independent living, safety and reliability are essential. Equipment like stairlifts, through-floor lifts, and platform lifts can be life-changing — but only when they’re properly maintained and regularly checked.

One of the most important parts of keeping these systems safe is ensuring they undergo regular LOLER examinations. But what exactly is LOLER, and why is it relevant to people in care settings or living independently?

Let’s break it down.

What is LOLER?

LOLER stands for the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 — a set of UK laws that apply to any equipment used for lifting people or goods. It’s often discussed in a commercial context, but it’s just as important in residential and healthcare environments.

For lifts used in care homes or private properties — such as:

• Stairlifts

• Platform lifts (wheelchair lifts)

• Through-floor lifts

• Hoists or ceiling track systems

— these regulations are vital to ensure safe operation and protect the people who depend on them.

👥 Learn more about our full range of solutions:👉 Assisted Living Solutions – Elevator Repair Specialists

📑 Or go straight to our inspection services:👉 LOLER Examinations – Elevator Repair Specialists

Why Are LOLER Examinations Needed?

These types of lifts and hoists are not just helpful — they’re essential for day-to-day living. A failure could cause injury, distress, or worse. For someone with mobility issues, even a short period of downtime can cause isolation, disruption, or emergency care needs.

LOLER examinations are thorough safety inspections that go beyond basic servicing. They assess the condition of key safety components and ensure the equipment is fit for continued use.

They’re especially important because they:

• Detect hidden wear, damage, or mechanical issues

• Reduce the risk of breakdowns or accidents

• Ensure compliance with UK safety law

• Provide peace of mind to carers, residents, and loved ones

How Often Should LOLER Inspections Be Done?

The law requires that LOLER inspections be carried out:

• Every 6 months for any equipment lifting people (e.g., stairlifts, platform lifts)

• Every 12 months for goods-only lifts (e.g., dumbwaiters)

• Or more frequently if advised by a competent person

Even if your lift appears to be working well, there could be unseen issues. That’s why sticking to a proper LOLER schedule is so important — especially in homes or care environments where lifts are in constant use.

What’s Included in a LOLER Examination?

LOLER inspections are not routine maintenance. They are structured, in-depth assessments performed by a competent person — someone trained to inspect and evaluate lifting systems according to legal standards.

Inspections usually cover:

• Suspension ropes or chains

• Emergency lowering systems

• Safety brakes and locking mechanisms

• Motor and drive assemblies

• Doors, sensors, and limit switches

After the inspection, you receive a written report showing:

• The lift’s condition

• Any defects found (and their severity)

• Whether immediate action is required

• Future recommendations for service or upgrade

How Elevator Repair Specialists Can Help

At Elevator Repair Specialists, we understand the critical role lifts play in care homes and private residences. That’s why our LOLER service is designed to be respectful, efficient, and fully compliant.

We offer:

• Fully qualified engineers

• Gentle, reassuring service for vulnerable users

• Full LOLER documentation and digital record-keeping

• Advice on servicing, repair, or upgrades

If you're managing equipment in a care facility, we can provide scheduled inspections and digital maintenance tracking. If you or a loved one are living independently with a home lift, we offer convenient reminders and no-fuss support.

🛠 Learn more or book an exam today:👉 LOLER Examinations – Elevator Repair Specialists

Ready to Book a LOLER Inspection?

If you're unsure about your compliance or it’s been more than six months since your last inspection, we can help. Whether you manage a care facility or live independently with a stairlift or home lift, keeping your equipment legally compliant and safe is essential.

📞 Contact us today via our LOLER Examinations page or visit our Assisted Living Solutions hub to learn more about how we support safer, more independent living.