Frequently Asked
Questions

RAM ELEVATORS + LIFTS

We understand that exploring mobility solutions often starts with questions — and we’re here to help make the answers clear and approachable. Whether you’re planning ahead for accessibility, supporting a loved one, or evaluating solutions for a residential or commercial space, this FAQ page is designed to guide you through the basics with confidence.

Here, you’ll find straightforward answers to common questions about residential and commercial elevators, stairlifts, and vertical platform lifts. We cover early considerations, such as choosing the right solution, space and installation expectations, safety standards, and general cost factors — all written to help you make informed decisions from the outset of your mobility journey.

If your question isn’t answered here, our team is always available to help. A simple conversation with a RAM mobility specialist can provide personalized guidance and help you take the next step with clarity and peace of mind.

Getting Started on a Mobility Journey

A stairlift carries one seated user up a staircase on a rail. An elevator is a complete vertical platform with an enclosed cab and multiple stops. A vertical platform lift (VPL) raises wheelchairs or people vertically with an open platform — it’s simpler to use than an elevator.

Start by considering your mobility needs (standing or sitting vs. wheelchair use), the number of floors you need to serve, the available space, and your budget. A brief phone consultation or in-home assessment can help clarify the best class of product for your needs.

Yes — our lifts can run parallel to your stairs, of any shape and size, as long as there are two landing levels; likewise, weather-rated outdoor models are also available for exterior spaces.

Other brand home elevators need a hoistway, but RAM’s modern residential units are machine-room-less (MRL), which reduces space and construction demands.

Yes — VPLs are commonly used for short vertical rises (such as porches or stoops) and public accessibility where a full elevator isn’t practical. Platform lifts are also ideal for close quarters and tight spaces.

Begin by consulting a local dealer to understand the product fit and measurements; they’ll often coordinate any necessary building work or provide referrals for local installers. Not sure which dealer to contact? Check our dealer directory.

Estimated Costs and Financing

Each project and product is unique, from location and use case—whether it’s commercial or residential or an interior vs. exterior project — to pulley systems to finishing touches. That’s why RAM leaves quotes to the experts, aka your local dealership.
Residential elevator pricing varies widely depending on cab size, finishes, drive type, and construction requirements — budget planners should expect a broad range and obtain quotes based on site-specific details.
Generally, yes — VPLs are less complex and often the most cost-effective option for short rises or wheelchair access. However, use cases and demands, such as maximum load capacity and frequency of use, are also important to consider.
Many vendors provide financing or can point to third-party options; dealers often list financing on product pages or FAQs. RAM Elevators + Lifts does not handle any payments in-house and cannot guarantee local dealer amenities.
Coverage depends on your insurer and local programs (veteran benefits, disability grants, or regional accessibility programs). Check local agencies and ask your dealer for documentation to support claims.
Consider pad installation, hoistway or construction work, electrical upgrades, permit and/or inspection fees, and optional finishes or accessories in addition to the base cost of your chosen product and model.

Space, Planning, and Timelines

Space demands depend on the model, but compact residential units are designed for small footprints. Always verify the exact cab and hoistway dimensions with the manufacturer’s brochures and documentation, available here.
Often yes — and RAM specializes in such projects! Our residential elevator products are designed for retrofit installation, but requirements (hoistway, doors, structural supports) vary by house. Confirm your exact needs with an in-home assessment with a local dealer.
Simple elevator and platform lift installations can be done in a matter of days for modular units, to several weeks; commercial, bespoke, or complex installations will take longer — from a few weeks to months, depending on the level of construction required.
Yes, almost all jurisdictions across North America require permits and inspections for elevators and VPLs; local building code and elevator-safety authorities determine the exact rules, so be sure to contact your local office early in your information gathering.
Yes — every RAM product, whether it’s an elevator or a lift, offers standard and upgrade finishes (panels, flooring, lighting) so units can match home decor, commercial design, or whatever your space requires!
Clear the work area, ensure unimpeded access to all levels involved, and have any required electrical upgrades planned — your installer will give a checklist.

Safety and Code Overview

All RAM residential and commercial products feature safety sensors, emergency stops, assistance dialing, and interlocks, and are built to modern safety standards, incorporating multiple redundant protections.
In North America, mobility elevators and lifts must meet the requirements of ASME A17.1/CSA B44 (or applicable regional codes) at a minimum; compliance influences the allowable cab size, speed, and types of doors or gates.
All RAM units have battery backup for lowering or calling systems, or can be manually lowered, depending on the specific product and your unique installation design. Ask your dealer about emergency procedures for each model.
ADA applies to public access; any elevator or platform lift for public use must meet ADA and local accessibility rules when used in public settings. Residential installations are less strictly controlled; however, RAM and our network of dealers will always install to the highest level of local code and compliance.
Yes — each product has a rated capacity; for example, some VPLs are rated up to roughly 600 lb, while elevator capacities vary by model — always check the spec sheet of the product you’re interested in to make sure it’s right for you.
Yes, with many jurisdictions requiring annual or periodic inspections and maintenance records; owners should follow the manufacturer’s recommended inspection schedule, regardless of whether the installation is residential or commercial.

Maintenance, Warranty, and Usage

Routine care is light for our residential units (cleaning, occasional lubrication), but scheduled professional maintenance keeps ride quality and safety systems in top shape. Likewise, in commercial spaces, mobility products get a higher rate of usage, so quarterly maintenance and cleaning are recommended.
RAM Elevators + Lifts does not offer service or maintenance plans outside of product warranty registration. However, most of our local dealers offer service and/or maintenance contracts, as well as recommended inspection schedules.
Warranties typically cover defects in materials and workmanship for a specified period; verify the exact terms (including parts, labor, and electronics) with your manufacturer or dealer.
With regular maintenance, RAM elevators and VPLs can expect a 15-25 year lifecycle, depending on use case and location; major components (motors, drives, controls) may need replacement over a long lifecycle.
Contact your local dealer or service team — reputable vendors like RAM Elevators + Lifts maintain dealer networks for local support and repairs, which can be found in our Dealer Directory.
RAM maintains a parts inventory within our central facility, with easy and quick North American shipping to any of our dealers. For older or niche models, lead times may vary; dealers can confirm specific part availability.

Buying Process and Who to Contact

The most helpful information to have on hand includes a basic floor plan, the number of floors/floor distance, mobility needs (seated/wheelchair), and any unique construction or timeline constraints, which help dealers give accurate quotes.
Many of RAM’s dealers offer free phone consults and onsite measurements; confirm this when you contact them.
Yes! Always compare products, features, installation scope, timelines, warranties, and dealer support, rather than just price alone, to ensure you get the best product and experience for your needs.
Unfortunately, there is no exact timeline from quote to first ride; however, your local dealer should be able to provide an accurate timeline after creating your quote. RAM has an industry-leading manufacturing and delivery time to ensure your dealer has all they need to get started.
Often, yes — dealers and installers are your local experts, and can frequently help clients obtain permits, perform required inspections, and coordinate with local inspectors.
Ask about product fit for your needs, estimated timeline, site modifications required, warranty details, maintenance options, and financing availability. We also encourage you to take notes, send follow-up emails— whatever it takes to get you the mobility tools you need!

FIND YOUR RAM

Still need more information to find the right solution for the right space?

Finding the best elevator or lift solution for your needs is an important process, but one that can feel daunting at the beginning. If you still need more insight to help you find your best RAM Elevators + Lifts product, take our quiz; in three easy questions, you’ll discover which RAM solutions may be best for you.