Lift Modernisation Services

Extend the Life of Your Lift with Professional Modernisation

Lifts, like all mechanical systems, have a finite lifespan. Over time, performance may decline, safety standards evolve, and aesthetics become dated. At TJ Lift Solutions, we specialise in lift modernisation, offering tailored solutions to upgrade the electrical, mechanical, and aesthetic components of your lift system. Whether your lift is suffering from slow performance, unreliable doors, non-compliant safety features, or simply looks tired and outdated, our modernisation service provides a cost-effective alternative to full lift replacement.

We deliver bespoke lift refurbishment packages designed to enhance safety, improve energy efficiency, and revitalise the user experience, all while complying with current British Standards and building regulations.

Mechanical Lift Modernisation

Mechanical components often suffer from wear and tear over years of daily use. Our mechanical modernisation work typically includes the upgrade or replacement of:

Traction motors and drive units
Hydraulic rams and power units
Gearboxes and bearings
Braking systems
Door operators and closing mechanisms
Car and counterweight guide shoes

By upgrading these systems, we improve the lift’s reliability, noise levels, ride quality, and stopping accuracy. These enhancements also contribute to lower energy use and reduced strain on core components.

Electrical Lift Modernisation

Outdated lift electronics are often responsible for inconsistent operation, increased breakdowns, and non-compliance with modern regulations. Our electrical upgrade services include:

Lift controller upgrades
New landing and car operating panels (COPs and LOPs)
Wiring and electrical supply updates
Integration of fire recall and emergency lowering systems
Energy-efficient LED lighting and power-saving modes
Voice announcers and display screens

We replace outdated relay-based controllers with modern microprocessor systems, improving diagnostics, call handling, and safety. This also supports EN 81-20/50 compliance and prepares the system for future maintenance.

Lift Aesthetic & Interior Refurbishment

The way your lift looks is just as important as how it performs—particularly in hotels, offices, residential apartments, and retail environments. We provide a range of aesthetic upgrades to transform dated or damaged lift cars into clean, modern, welcoming spaces.

Typical improvements include:

New wall panels in stainless steel, laminate, or glass
Anti-vandal finishes for high-traffic environments
Ceiling and lighting upgrades
New flooring options including vinyl, rubber, or tiled finishes
Mirror and handrail installation
Updated COPs with braille, touch-free buttons, or keypads

We offer a wide range of finishes to suit modern design standards or bespoke architectural themes. These upgrades significantly enhance the passenger experience, helping reflect the image of your building or business.

Benefits of Lift Modernisation

Improved lift performance and speed
Reduced energy consumption
Enhanced ride comfort and noise reduction
Increased reliability and reduced breakdowns
Compliance with modern safety and accessibility standards
Extended equipment lifespan
A better experience for tenants, staff, and visitors

Tailored Lift Refurbishment for All Lift Types

We modernise all major lift types, including:

Passenger lifts
Goods and service lifts
Platform lifts and MRL systems
Traction and hydraulic lifts
Scenic and glass lifts
Access lifts in care homes or public buildings
Domestic and residential lifts

We work with all major brands including Otis, Schindler, KONE, Stannah, Orona, and bespoke or legacy systems. Whether your lift is 10, 20, or 40 years old, our expert team can restore it to modern standards with minimal downtime.

Frequently Asked questions

What is lift modernisation?

Lift modernisation is the process of upgrading outdated lift systems with new components to improve performance, safety, appearance, and compliance without replacing the entire lift.

How do I know if my lift needs modernising?

Signs include slow or jerky movement, frequent faults, poor door operation, out-of-date interiors, or failure to meet current safety and accessibility standards.

Can you modernise just part of the lift system?

Yes. We can carry out partial modernisation, such as only upgrading the controller, door operators, or the interior cabin, depending on the condition and goals.

How long does lift modernisation take?

This depends on the scale of the upgrade, but partial modernisations can take just a few days, while full refurbishments may take one to two weeks.

Will I lose access to the lift during the works?

We always try to minimise disruption. In some cases, works are phased or scheduled out of hours to maintain access wherever possible.

Does lift modernisation help with energy efficiency?

Yes. Modern controllers, drive systems, and lighting reduce energy usage significantly and often include energy-saving features like standby mode.

Will the lift be compliant with current safety standards after modernisation?

Yes. We ensure all upgrades meet current British and European standards, including EN 81-20/50 and accessibility guidelines under the Equality Act.

Can you modernise heritage or bespoke lifts?

Absolutely. We have experience modernising lifts in listed buildings and unique installations, retaining aesthetic features while updating the mechanics and electronics.

Do you provide reports or certification after the work is complete?

Yes. We issue test certificates, O&M manuals, and service records upon completion, ensuring full compliance and traceability.

What types of buildings do you carry out lift modernisation in?

We work in offices, residential blocks, hotels, retail centres, care homes, schools, hospitals, and industrial premises across the UK.

Talk to our Lift Specialists Today

Get in touch today for a no-obligation consultation or to arrange a site visit. We’re ready to support your lift project—on time, within budget, and to the highest standard.