Through Floor Lift Case Study: Transforming Home Accessibility with DHG Services

Introduction

As mobility needs change, many homeowners face a difficult decision: adapt their existing home or consider moving to a more accessible property. For individuals who have spent years building memories in their home, relocating is often the last option they wish to consider. Fortunately, modern accessibility solutions now make it possible for many people to remain safely and comfortably in the homes they love.

One of the most effective solutions available today is a through-floor lift. Designed to provide safe and convenient travel between floors without the need for a traditional lift shaft, through-floor lifts have become increasingly popular among homeowners seeking to maintain independence and future-proof their property.

This case study examines how DHG Services helped a customer overcome significant mobility challenges through the installation of a bespoke through-floor lift. While this case study represents a typical customer journey, it demonstrates the process, benefits, and outcomes that many homeowners experience when choosing a through-floor lift solution.

The Challenge

The customer, Mr and Mrs Williams, had lived in their detached two-storey property for over 25 years. The home had been ideal for raising a family and provided ample space, comfort, and familiarity.

However, following a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease and ongoing mobility difficulties, Mr Williams found it increasingly difficult to navigate the staircase safely.

Initially, the couple managed the situation by:

Using handrails
Taking stairs slowly
Limiting trips between floors
Relying on assistance from family members

Over time, these measures became less effective.

The staircase presented several challenges:

Increasing risk of falls
Reduced confidence
Difficulty carrying items upstairs
Fatigue when using stairs
Concerns about long-term independence

The upstairs bathroom and main bedroom remained essential parts of daily life, making access to the first floor increasingly important.

DHG Services case studies include:

Exploring the Options

The family began investigating several possible solutions.

These included:

Moving Home

Although a bungalow was considered, several concerns emerged:

High moving costs
Emotional attachment to the property
Lack of suitable local alternatives
Disruption to daily life

Downstairs Living

Converting the dining room into a temporary bedroom was discussed but would have significantly impacted the home's layout and functionality.

Stairlift Installation

A stairlift was considered initially, but due to the customer's progressive mobility condition and future wheelchair requirements, a more comprehensive solution was needed.

Through Floor Lift

Following research and recommendations, the family contacted DHG Services to discuss through-floor lift options.

The benefits quickly became apparent:

Full floor-to-floor accessibility
Wheelchair compatibility
Future-proofing
Minimal building work
Increased independence
Long-term usability

Contacting DHG Services

The customer contacted DHG Services seeking advice on the most suitable mobility solution.

During the initial consultation, our team took time to understand:

Current mobility requirements
Future accessibility needs
Property layout
Budget expectations
Installation timescales

Unlike many providers, DHG Services focuses on understanding the customer's lifestyle before recommending equipment.

A free, no-obligation survey was arranged to assess the property in detail.

Property Survey

A thorough home survey forms the foundation of every successful lift installation.

During the visit, our surveyor evaluated:

Structural Considerations

The survey included assessment of:

Floor construction
Available space
Ceiling heights
Room layouts
Access routes

Through-floor lifts require relatively little structural alteration compared to conventional elevators, making them suitable for many homes.

Customer Requirements

Equally important was understanding the user's needs.

Key considerations included:

Mobility limitations
Transfer requirements
Future wheelchair use
Ease of operation
Safety features

Location Selection

Several installation locations were considered.

The chosen position provided:

Convenient access downstairs
Direct access to the bedroom upstairs
Minimal disruption to existing rooms
Excellent long-term usability

Following the survey, DHG Services prepared a detailed proposal outlining the recommended solution.

Selecting the Right Lift

DHG Services offers a wide range of through-floor lifts designed to suit different properties and budgets.

The customer was introduced to several options including:

Compact Standing Lifts

Ideal for smaller properties where space is limited.

Seated Through Floor Lifts

Suitable for individuals who require seated travel between floors.

Wheelchair Accessible Lifts

Providing sufficient space for wheelchair users and carers.

Future-Proof Solutions

Designed to accommodate changing mobility needs over time.

After careful consideration, the customer selected a wheelchair-accessible through-floor lift that would continue meeting requirements for many years.

Why Through Floor Lifts Are Increasingly Popular

During discussions, several benefits became clear.

Independence

Users can move between floors without assistance.

Safety

The risk of falls on stairs is dramatically reduced.

Convenience

Travel between floors becomes effortless.

Future-Proofing

Properties become more adaptable to changing needs.

Property Retention

Customers can remain in familiar surroundings.

Space Efficiency

Modern through-floor lifts occupy surprisingly little floor space.

Installation Process

Once the design was approved, DHG Services began planning the installation.

Project Preparation

Preparations included:

Final measurements
Lift manufacturing
Scheduling engineers
Structural planning

Building Works

Unlike traditional lifts, through-floor lifts require relatively modest building alterations.

Work included:

Creating floor aperture
Structural reinforcement where necessary
Electrical preparation
Safety installations

Our team worked closely with the customer to minimise disruption throughout the process.

Lift Installation

The lift itself was installed efficiently and professionally.

This included:

Lift assembly
Drive system installation
Safety testing
Operational checks
Commissioning

User Training

Before handover, comprehensive training was provided covering:

Lift operation
Safety features
Emergency controls
Maintenance procedures

The customer was encouraged to use the lift independently while engineers remained available to answer questions.

Immediate Results

The transformation was immediate.

Within hours of installation, the customer could move safely and comfortably between floors without assistance.

Tasks that had become physically demanding suddenly became simple again.

Immediate benefits included:

Safe access to all areas of the home
Elimination of stair climbing
Reduced physical strain
Improved confidence
Enhanced comfort

The family immediately noticed a significant improvement in overall wellbeing.

Long-Term Benefits

Several months after installation, DHG Services conducted a follow-up review.

The results were overwhelmingly positive.

Greater Independence

The customer regained the ability to move freely around the home without assistance.

Improved Safety

Stair-related risks were effectively eliminated.

Reduced Anxiety

Both the customer and family members experienced greater peace of mind.

Better Quality of Life

The ability to continue using every room in the home restored normal daily routines.

Future Mobility Support

The wheelchair-accessible lift ensured the home remained suitable for future requirements.

Financial Considerations

A through-floor lift represents a significant investment, but many customers are surprised by its long-term value.

When compared with alternatives such as:

Moving home
Residential care
Major property renovations
Assisted living facilities

A through-floor lift often proves highly cost-effective.

In addition to improving quality of life, the lift also contributed to:

Property adaptability
Enhanced accessibility
Potential market appeal
Long-term independence

Future-Proofing the Home

One of the most important benefits identified by the customer was future-proofing.

Many people install accessibility equipment only after mobility becomes severely restricted.

By acting early, homeowners can:

Remain independent longer
Reduce accident risks
Adapt gradually
Avoid crisis-driven decisions

The through-floor lift effectively future-proofed the property for years to come.

Why Customers Choose DHG Services

Several factors contributed to the success of this project.

Free Home Surveys

Comprehensive assessments with no obligation.

Tailored Recommendations

Solutions designed around individual needs.

Industry Expertise

Years of experience in mobility and accessibility.

Leading Manufacturers

High-quality products from trusted brands.

Professional Installation

Experienced engineers delivering exceptional workmanship.

Ongoing Support

Maintenance, servicing, and aftercare support.

Customer-Focused Service

A commitment to finding the right solution rather than simply making a sale.

Common Misconceptions About Through Floor Lifts

Throughout the consultation process, several myths were addressed.

"They're Only For Large Homes"

Modern lifts can be installed in surprisingly compact spaces.

"Installation Is Extremely Disruptive"

Most projects involve less disruption than customers expect.

"They're Only For Wheelchair Users"

Many customers install lifts before wheelchair use becomes necessary.

"They're Too Expensive"

When compared with moving house or care costs, they often represent excellent value.

Customer Feedback

Following installation, the customer highlighted several key benefits:

Confidence restored
Safe movement throughout the home
Reduced reliance on family
Greater comfort
Improved quality of life

Most importantly, the lift enabled them to remain in the home they loved.

Conclusion

This case study demonstrates how a through-floor lift can transform daily living for homeowners facing mobility challenges.

Through careful assessment, expert advice, and professional installation, DHG Services delivered a solution that improved accessibility, restored independence, and future-proofed the property for years to come.

Whether you're exploring accessibility options for yourself or a loved one, a through-floor lift can provide a practical, safe, and long-term solution that allows you to remain comfortably in your own home.

At DHG Services, we are committed to helping customers find the right mobility solution through expert guidance, professional installation, and ongoing support. From initial survey to final handover, our goal is simple: helping people live more independently, safely, and confidently in the homes they love.

Through Floor Lift Case Study | DHG Services Home Accessibility Solutions