Home Elevators

No, key operation is no longer required under ASME A18.1a 2001 or newer standards, though it remains optional. The change was made because restricting access with keys didn’t enhance safety or reliability and often inconvenienced those the lifts were meant to serve.

Key systems were widely distributed, making them ineffective at limiting use to individuals with mobility impairments. Platform lifts are not for freight and should remain accessible to those who need them.

Building owners are responsible for maintaining accessibility while addressing security or misuse concerns. Alternatives to key operation include proximity devices, card readers, remote controls with surveillance, or systems that switch between key and keyless modes, depending on the setting.

When choosing between a ramp and a lift, consider the needs of end users and the specific application. While ramps may seem like a cost-effective solution, they are not always the best option, especially for rises over 24 inches. Long ramps take up significant space, can be difficult for users with mobility impairments, and may lack dignity in accessibility.

Platform lifts, often perceived as only for wheelchair users, serve a broader range of people, including those using walkers, canes, or with other mobility challenges. However, public misconceptions and poor-quality installations have led to lifts being seen as a last resort. This has often resulted in low-cost, unreliable lifts that fail when needed most.

Ramps work well for very low rises (12–18 inches) if space is available, but for higher rises, lifts are more space-efficient and practical. While ramps can accommodate various users, including those with freight or strollers, a well-designed, durable platform lift can serve everyone reliably. Proper investment in high-performance lifts can add value to buildings and provide lasting accessibility, unlike cheap, poorly installed alternatives.

Self-installation is strongly discouraged due to safety risks and the potential for accidents or code violations. Local and national codes often require installation by a licensed technician, and improper installation can void manufacturer warranties. To ensure safety and compliance, hire a professional installer.

Ensuring your home elevator is safe is critical, particularly for children. On August 6, 2019, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) issued an advisory highlighting safety concerns with the spacing between the gate and landing doors on home elevators.

The announcement addressed potential hazards due to large gaps between the elevator’s landing doors and the car’s gate. To read the full advisory, you can download the notice here.

The concern revolves around the spacing between elevator doors. Previously, the “3-inch and 5-inch Rule” governed these distances. However, experts now believe these gaps are too large and pose a risk to children.

In New Jersey, for example, the spacing standard has changed to the “¾-inch and 4-inch Rule.” Non-compliance with this standard increases the risk of serious accidents.

Home elevators are regulated by national safety codes, which are often adopted by individual states. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) has revised its standards, replacing the 3-inch and 5-inch Rule with the ¾-inch and 4-inch Rule.

If you’re unsure whether your elevator meets the updated safety standards, consult a home elevator professional to inspect your system. They can identify potential risks and recommend solutions to minimize the space gap.

If you’re building a new home, ensure that your elevator installation complies with the updated code (¾-inch and 4-inch Rule).

A professional assessment is essential to determine the best solution. Common options include:

• Door Build-Outs: Attachments installed on the back of the door to reduce the gap to a safe size. This requires precise sizing and dimension verification.
• Moving Landing Doors: Adjusting existing landing doors so they sit closer to the landing sill edge.

Safety is paramount. A home elevator must be safe for all occupants, especially children. Ignoring these safety guidelines could lead to severe accidents.

Yes: If the portable lift is configured for unassisted operation, it must comply with ASME A18.1 safety standards, as it functions like a vertical platform lift. ADA requires unassisted access, so portable lifts should not be exempt from safety compliance. The term "portable" refers to equipment easily moved but not permanently fixed, and reputable manufacturers produce portable lifts that meet safety standards.

No: Some jurisdictions (AHJ) may not require permits or inspections for portable lifts. However, sellers and installers remain liable for compliance with codes and standards, even without inspection. If the lift causes an accident or violates ADA requirements, liability may fall entirely on the contractor or seller, often beyond insurance coverage.

To ensure safety and compliance, choose lifts from reputable manufacturers that meet ASME A18.1 standards and avoid cutting corners to reduce costs.