Lift Testing and Commissioning

Q: Is lift commissioning a legal requirement in the UK?

Yes. Under the Lifts Regulations 2016, all new lifts must be tested and certified before being placed into service.

Q: What standards are followed during lift testing in the UK?

We follow BS EN 81-20 and EN 81-50, which cover lift safety, testing, and documentation, as well as applicable UK Building Regulations.

Lift Testing and Commissioning for New Installations and Upgrades

We provide lift testing and commissioning for new installations, modernisations and refurbished systems.

This ensures lifts are fully tested, adjusted and verified before being placed into service, in line with current safety and performance standards.

Works are carried out in line with relevant British Standards, including EN 81, and project specifications.

What is Lift Commissioning?

Lift commissioning is the final stage of installation or upgrade, involving detailed testing and adjustment of the system to ensure safe and correct operation.

Commissioning must be completed before the lift can be handed over and placed into service.

Lift Testing and Commissioning Process

We carry out a structured testing process including:

Visual inspection of mechanical, electrical and structural elements
Functional testing of doors, brakes and safety systems
Load testing under rated conditions
Speed and levelling checks
Testing of alarms and communication systems
Control system calibration and diagnostics
Final system adjustments
Verification against design specifications

This process ensures the lift operates as designed and meets required safety standards.

We coordinate with contractors and project teams to ensure commissioning aligns with programme requirements.

Standards and Compliance

Testing and commissioning is carried out in line with current UK regulations and relevant standards, including EN 81 and applicable building regulations.

This ensures lifts meet both regulatory and project-specific requirements.

Certification and Handover

Following testing, we provide documentation confirming the lift is ready for operation.

Commissioning certification
Technical documentation
Operation and maintenance information
Handover confirmation

This documentation supports compliance, handover and ongoing maintenance.

Testing for All Lift Types

We carry out testing and commissioning across a wide range of lift systems, including:

Passenger lifts (traction and hydraulic)
Platform and access lifts
Goods lifts and service lifts
Machine-room-less (MRL) lifts
Home lifts and wheelchair lifts
Glass and scenic lifts
Fire-fighting and evacuation lifts

Whether for a single lift or a multi-lift installation, we ensure each system is tested to current safety and performance standards.

Frequently Asked questions

What is the purpose of lift testing and commissioning?

The purpose is to ensure the lift is installed correctly, functions safely, and meets all legal and performance standards before being handed over for use.

Is lift commissioning a legal requirement in the UK?

Yes. Under the Lifts Regulations 2016, all new lifts must be tested and certified before being placed into service.

Who is responsible for lift commissioning

Typically, the lift installation contractor is responsible for commissioning. However, a building owner or project manager must ensure this process is completed before handover.

How long does lift commissioning take?

The duration depends on the complexity and type of lift, but most standard lifts can be commissioned in 1–3 days following installation.

What’s included in the lift commissioning process?

It includes system testing, safety checks, final adjustments, load testing, calibration, documentation, and certification.

Is load testing always required during commissioning?

Yes. Load testing is typically carried out to confirm the lift can handle its rated capacity and maintain safety during full operation.

Do you provide documentation after testing and commissioning?

Absolutely. We issue a commissioning certificate, technical file, test records, and O&M manuals upon completion.

Can you commission lifts installed by other companies?

Yes. We can act as independent specialists to carry out third-party commissioning if required by developers, landlords, or consultants.

Is lift user training included in the commissioning process?

Yes. If requested, we can provide basic training for building managers or end users on lift operation, safety features, and emergency procedures.

What standards are followed during lift testing in the UK?

We follow BS EN 81-20 and EN 81-50, which cover lift safety, testing, and documentation, as well as applicable UK Building Regulations.

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.