How Often Should a Lift Be Serviced? The Complete Guide for Building Owners in Northern England
If you manage or own a building with a lift, you already know how essential it is to keep it running smoothly and safely. But one question we’re often asked is:
“How often should a lift be serviced?”
The short answer: at least twice a year — though usage, lift type, and regulations can mean more frequent checks. In this guide, ACE Elevators Northern explains exactly how often you should service your lift, what’s required by law, and how proper maintenance keeps your building compliant and your passengers safe.
Why Regular Lift Servicing Matters
A lift is one of the most used — and most relied-upon — pieces of equipment in any building. Regular servicing prevents:
- Unexpected breakdowns and downtime
- Safety hazards for passengers
- Expensive emergency repairs
- Non-compliance with UK safety regulations
By scheduling consistent maintenance with an experienced, accredited company like ACE Elevators Northern, you protect your investment and the people who rely on it daily.
How Often Should a Lift Be Serviced?
The recommended service frequency depends on several key factors:
1. Lift Usage
- High-traffic buildings (offices, hospitals, care homes, shopping centres): every 1–3 months
- Moderate use (apartments, hotels): every 3–6 months
- Low-use lifts (private or small business): at least twice a year
2. Type of Lift
- Passenger lifts require more frequent checks due to safety demands.
- Goods-only lifts may be serviced less often, but still require annual LOLER inspections.
- Platform and wheelchair lifts benefit from routine servicing to maintain accessibility reliability.
3. Manufacturer Guidelines
Each lift model has its own recommended maintenance schedule, which your service provider should follow.
4. UK Legal Requirements (LOLER & PUWER)
Under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER):
- Passenger lifts → thoroughly examined every 6 months
- Goods-only lifts → thoroughly examined every 12 months
The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER) also require lifts to be kept in safe working order through regular inspection and maintenance.
Tip: Regular servicing is not the same as a LOLER examination — but both are essential for full compliance.
What’s Included in a Professional Lift Service
When you book a lift service with ACE Elevators Northern, our NVQ-qualified engineers carry out a comprehensive inspection that includes:
- Checking door operation, sensors, and controls
- Testing safety systems and alarms
- Inspecting ropes, pulleys, hydraulics, and bearings
- Verifying electrical systems and emergency functions
- Lubricating and cleaning key components
- Making adjustments for smoother, quieter performance
Our engineers are DBS-checked and CHAS-accredited, ensuring professional standards across every visit.
The Cost-Saving Benefits of Regular Servicing
Routine maintenance is far more cost-effective than reactive repairs. Here’s why:
- Prevents major faults before they happen
- Extends the lifespan of your lift
- Reduces downtime and disruption
- Improves energy efficiency through smoother operation
- Helps budget planning with predictable service costs
Over time, scheduled servicing saves thousands in emergency call-outs and unplanned part replacements.
Tailored Lift Service Contracts Across Northern England
At ACE Elevators Northern, we provide flexible
Lift Service Contracts designed to suit your property type, usage, and budget.
Whether you manage one platform lift or a portfolio of passenger lifts, we’ll create a plan that keeps you compliant and your lifts reliable all year round.
Our experienced engineers cover Yorkshire and the wider North of England, including:
Leeds | Bradford | Sheffield | York | Huddersfield | Harrogate
Is Your Lift Due for a Service?
If you’re unsure when your last service took place, it’s best to get it checked as soon as possible. A quick inspection today can prevent a costly breakdown tomorrow.
Book Your Next Lift Service with ACE Elevators Northern
✔
Over 30 years of experience
✔ NVQ-qualified, DBS-checked engineers
✔ CHAS-accredited company
✔ Fast response across Yorkshire and the North
Call 01535 600 688
or
Request a Quick Quote today.

















