Common Mistakes to Avoid During Lift Installation
Installing a lift (elevator) is a long-term investment that enhances accessibility, safety, and property value. However, many property owners—both residential and commercial—make costly errors during the planning and execution phase. Understanding the common mistakes to avoid during lift installation is crucial for saving money, ensuring safety, and avoiding future breakdowns.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore the top mistakes people make when installing lifts in India, real-life examples of failed installations, expert insights, and actionable tips to help you get it right the first time.
🚧 Why Avoiding Mistakes During Lift Installation Is So Important
A lift is not just a convenience—it is a critical safety component in any building. Poorly planned or incorrectly installed lifts can:
Lead to frequent breakdowns and costly repairs.
Fail to meet safety compliance standards.
Increase risks for passengers, especially senior citizens and differently-abled individuals.
Reduce the overall value of your property.
According to a 2023 report by the Elevator and Escalator Safety Board of India, nearly 35% of lift-related accidents were linked to improper installation and lack of safety checks.
🔑 The Most Common Mistakes to Avoid During Lift Installation
Here are the critical mistakes that property owners and builders often make:
1. Ignoring Site Feasibility Studies
One of the most common mistakes is installing a lift without checking whether the site conditions support the lift type.
In residential houses, shafts are often too narrow.
In commercial buildings, the load-bearing capacity may not be assessed.
Example: A housing society in Hyderabad faced repeated breakdowns because the lift shaft was built too close to a water pipeline, causing leakage issues.
Actionable Tip: Always conduct a detailed site inspection with professional engineers before finalizing the lift type.
2. Choosing the Wrong Type of Lift
Not all lifts are the same. Selecting the wrong model can result in performance issues and higher long-term costs.
Hydraulic Lifts: Ideal for low-rise homes but slower in speed.
Traction Lifts: Best for commercial buildings but costlier.
MRL (Machine Room-Less) Lifts: Space-saving but require precise installation.
Expert Insight: Many clients prioritize cost over suitability, leading to poor performance later. A better approach is to balance budget, usage, and building structure.
3. Overlooking Government Approvals
In India, lift installations require clearances from:
Municipal Corporation
Electrical Inspectorate
State Lift Inspector
Skipping this step may lead to fines, legal complications, or even removal orders.
Real-Life Case: A commercial complex in Hyderabad was fined ₹5 lakhs for installing lifts without the Labour Department’s approval.
4. Poor Quality Components and Suppliers
Another mistake is choosing cheap, unbranded components to cut costs. While the initial savings may look attractive, the risks are high.
Frequent repairs
Low energy efficiency
Safety hazards
Actionable Tip: Always source lifts from certified manufacturers and licensed installers.
5. Incorrect Shaft Dimensions
Improper shaft construction is one of the leading causes of lift installation delays. If the shaft is not aligned properly:
Cabin may not fit correctly.
Safety systems may malfunction.
Installation costs increase due to modifications.
6. Not Considering Future Maintenance
Lift installation is not a one-time job—it requires continuous servicing. Many property owners ignore this aspect and end up paying high maintenance costs later.
Example: An apartment complex installed high-end lifts but had no Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC). Frequent failures led to downtime of over two weeks.
7. Inadequate Safety Features
Some installations overlook critical safety systems like:
ARD (Automatic Rescue Device)
Emergency alarms
Fire-resistant materials
This not only risks passenger safety but also makes the lift non-compliant with Indian safety standards.
8. Hiring Unlicensed Installers
Going with cheap, unlicensed installers is a shortcut that often backfires. Licensed professionals follow strict protocols and ensure compliance.
Actionable Tip: Always check if your installer is registered with the State Labour Department and holds valid certifications.
9. Underestimating Power Requirements
Lifts consume significant electricity. Without proper power backup and load calculations:
Breakdowns become frequent.
Energy bills increase.
Emergency usage becomes risky.
10. Ignoring Accessibility Needs
Property owners sometimes fail to consider the actual end users of the lift. For instance:
Narrow doors make it difficult for wheelchair access.
Lack of Braille panels excludes visually impaired users.
📊 Pros and Cons of Lift Installation
✅ Pros
Adds property value
Improves accessibility for all age groups
Enhances convenience and time-saving
Increases the luxury appeal of the property
❌ Cons
High upfront cost
Requires government approvals
Ongoing maintenance expenses
Potential downtime during repairs
💡 Actionable Tips to Ensure a Smooth Lift Installation
Get a professional feasibility study before installation.
Choose a lift type that matches your building’s height and usage.
Always secure government approvals before starting installation.
Invest in AMC contracts for long-term savings.
Ensure safety features like ARD, emergency alarms, and fire resistance.
🔍 Real-Life Use Cases
Residential Home Lift in Hyderabad – A family installed a compact hydraulic lift for ₹8 lakhs, ensuring accessibility for elderly parents.
Commercial Lift in an Office Building – A traction lift with 10-person capacity was installed for ₹18 lakhs, improving employee convenience and property value.
Hospital Stretcher Lift – A Hyderabad-based hospital installed a stretcher lift with advanced safety features for ₹28 lakhs, ensuring compliance and patient safety.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the most common mistake during lift installation?
👉 Choosing the wrong type of lift for the building structure.
Q2. Do I need government approval for lift installation in Hyderabad?
👉 Yes, approvals from GHMC, Electrical Inspector, and Labour Department are mandatory.
Q3. How much does a home lift cost in India?
👉 Residential lifts typically cost between ₹7–12 lakhs.
Q4. Can lifts be installed in old buildings?
👉 Yes, but it requires structural modifications and additional approvals.
Q5. How long does lift installation take?
👉 On average, 2–3 months depending on the site and model.
Q6. Are imported lifts better than Indian brands?
👉 Imported lifts offer luxury features but are costlier. Indian brands are reliable and more affordable.
Q7. What safety features should I check before installation?
👉 ARD, alarm system, fire-resistant materials, and door sensors.
Q8. How often should lifts be serviced?
👉 Every 3–6 months under an AMC contract.
Q9. What happens if lifts are installed without approval?
👉 It may lead to fines, penalties, or removal orders.
Q10. Do lifts increase property value?
👉 Yes, especially in high-rise apartments, villas, and commercial complexes.
📢 Conclusion: Get Lift Installation Right the First Time
Avoiding the common mistakes during lift installation can save you time, money, and future headaches. From selecting the right lift type to ensuring government approvals and safety compliance, every step matters.
If you’re planning a lift installation in Hyderabad or anywhere in India, consult licensed experts who can provide end-to-end solutions—from planning and design to approvals and maintenance.
👉 Ready to install a lift without the hassle? Contact our Lift Installation Services in Hyderabad today for professional guidance and a free consultation.