BY ALEX KANE - HEAD OF BOYDENS LEASEHOLD & ESTATE MANAGEMENT

For most residents, a lift is simply expected to work. It is often only noticed when it breaks down, and frustration sets in quickly. For property managers, however, lifts are among the most complex and costly assets within a block. When problems occur, they can lead to immediate disruption, complaints, and large bills. With careful planning, these challenges can be managed, and in many cases, avoided.

How Long Does a Lift Last?

The average lifespan of a passenger lift is around 20 to 25 years, though this depends on usage, the type of lift, and the quality of maintenance. In high-traffic buildings, wear and tear is naturally accelerated. Whilst many lifts can be modernised rather than fully replaced, these projects are still expensive and disruptive, which makes forward planning essential.

Knowing the Different Type of Lifts 

• Hydraulic lifts are common in low- to mid-rise blocks. They are generally cheaper to install but can be less energy efficient and often require more regular maintenance.
• Traction lifts are typically found in taller buildings. They provide smoother rides and usually have longer lifespans, but repairs and replacements tend to be more costly.
• Motor room less (MRL) lifts are a modern form of traction lift that does not require a separate motor room, making them space-saving. However, their equipment can be harder to access, and major works can prove more challenging.

Knowing the type of lift in a building allows a property manager to anticipate likely issues and plan for them in advance.

Why Records and History Matter 

A well-maintained paper trail makes a world of difference. Clear records of a lift’s installation date, service history, and any modernisation works provide the foundation for better budgeting and decision-making. When tendering for works or seeking advice, an accurate history enables quicker and more reliable assessments.

Pro-active Planning with Dedicated Reserve Funds

Replacing or modernising a lift can easily cost six figures. Without planning, this creates unwelcome surprises for leaseholders and difficult conversations for managers. Establishing a dedicated reserve fund for lifts,  separate from general sinking funds, helps avoid these shocks. Spreading contributions over a 10- to 20-year period makes future projects far more manageable and fairer.

Independent Lift Consultants 

Property managers are often expected by their clients to be experts in every aspect of property management. Whilst managers do have a broad and impressive knowledge base, they cannot be expected to know everything about everything. This is where lift consultants come in – because lifts are their world, 24/7.

At Boydens, we recommend ILECS as an independent lift consultancy, and many of our clients have chosen to engage them alongside their maintenance contracts. Their specialist input ensures that specifications are appropriate, tenders are competitive, and works are carried out to the correct standard. This provides peace of mind for clients and value for leaseholders, whilst helping managers deliver projects with confidence.

Conclusion – From Headache to Well Managed Asset 

Lifts may not be the most visible element of a block, but when they fail, the impact is immediate. By understanding the type of lift installed, keeping detailed records, building up dedicated reserves, and bringing in independent expertise when required, property managers can move away from firefighting and towards a proactive, controlled approach. In doing so, the lift becomes less of a headache and more of a well-managed asset that quietly does its job in the background, just as residents expect.