Platform lifts for porches, churches, schools, and businesses
A vertical platform lift moves a wheelchair straight up to a porch, deck, stage, or next floor. An inclined platform lift rides a straight staircase and folds away. We install both for homeowners and for commercial buildings, handle the state permits and inspections, and service everything afterward.
Vertical platform lifts
Straight up and down, 4 to 14 feet. Open for a porch, enclosed for weather or commercial code.
Inclined platform lifts
For a straight staircase where a vertical lift has no room. The platform folds flat against the wall when not in use.
What we handle on a commercial project
State permit before the order
Pennsylvania and Maryland require a permit before a commercial lift is installed. We prepare and file the application, including the Labor and Industry forms in PA and the registration in MD.
Drawings and site prep
Pad or pit details, landing door requirements, electrical, and the fire-rating rules for enclosures and doors. You get a checklist with everything the building owner or contractor provides.
Witnessed acceptance test
After installation we perform the test in front of the state or third-party inspector and handle the paperwork for the certificate.
Doors and gates by code
Which landings need an interlocked door, a gate, or a fire-rated door depends on the lift type and travel. We spec it right the first time.
Service and periodic tests
Commercial lifts need periodic witnessed tests. We offer service plans that bundle the annual inspection and the one-year and three-year tests.
Churches and nonprofits
We work with many congregations and community buildings. Ask about phased payment and scheduling around services.
Platform lifts in place
Commercial lift, Harrisburg, PA 
Multilift, Ashland, PA Enclosed V-1504 Delta inclined lift
Platform lifts near you
Local pages: platform lifts in Harrisburg, PA and platform lifts in York, PA. We install across central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland; see the service area. For an overview of the simplest option, see vertical platform lifts, or compare with modular ramps.
Questions we hear every week
What does a vertical platform lift cost installed?
Residential porch lifts typically run in the low to mid five figures installed, depending on travel height, whether it is enclosed, and the landing gates and doors required. Commercial lifts cost more because of enclosures, fire-rated doors, and the state permit and inspection. We quote after a site visit, and for commercial projects we include the permit line so there are no surprises.
Can a platform lift be installed outdoors?
Yes. The V-1504 and Multilift are built for outdoor use with weather-resistant finishes and locks. Most residential porch and deck lifts we install are outside, on a small concrete pad.
How much weight can a platform lift carry?
750 lb is the standard rating for the V-1504 and Multilift, enough for a power wheelchair and its rider. The Prolift carries 1,000 to 1,400 lb.
Do I need a permit?
Residential lifts in Pennsylvania do not need a state elevator permit, though a township building permit for the pad or landing may apply. Commercial lifts in Pennsylvania and all lifts in Maryland need state permits and inspections. We handle that paperwork, including the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry application, and perform the witnessed tests.
Platform lift or a ramp?
Rule of thumb: under about 30 inches of rise, a modular ramp is usually cheaper and simpler. Above that, the ramp gets long (one foot of ramp per inch of rise) and a lift starts to make more sense, especially on a small lot. We install both and will price both if it is close.
Platform lifts we installed recently
Every photo here is one of our own installations. No stock images, no staged showrooms.
Need a lift for a home or a building?
Call and tell us the rise, where it sits, and whether the building is residential or commercial. We will come measure and send a written quote with the permit cost included.