Liftology

Public Building VPL

  • Liftology
  • Public Building VPL

    • Public Building VPL

    Commercial vertical platform lift options for offices, churches, schools, retail spaces, and shared-use buildings. 

    When stairs limit access to a public building or common area, a vertical platform lift can provide a compact access solution where a ramp is not practical or would take up too much space.

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    Public Building VPL

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    Key Features:

    Key Features:

    • Vertical platform lifts carry a wheelchair user or person with limited mobility between two levels on a stable platform, providing direct access where stairs are difficult to use and a long ramp is not practical.
    • They can be installed at offices, churches, schools, retail spaces, community buildings, and other public facilities and are available in open, factory-enclosed, and site-built shaftway configurations.
    • Available in three primary configurations: open VPL, enclosed VPL, and shaftway/hoistway VPL depending on rise and available space
    • Suitable for indoor or outdoor installation, depending on the model and options selected
    • Can often be added to an existing public or commercial building
    • Commonly used at building entrances, stages, raised platforms, split-level interiors, and other elevation changes
    • Multiple platform sizes and entry/exit configurations are available
    • Weather protection and battery backup options are available on many models
    • Enclosed models provide additional weather protection and reduce the need for some site-built guarding
    • Shaftway models can be integrated into new construction, additions, or major renovations
    • Commercial applications may require additional controls, signage, emergency features, permits, and inspections
    • Lifting height, platform size, capacity, and available options vary by model

    Brands & Models We Offer

  • Savaria Commercial Vertical Lift
  • Harmar Commercial Vertical Lift
  • Other Brands for Specialized Access Needs

    • Installation Time

  • Commercial vertical platform lifts have a simpler installation process than commercial elevators because they do not require a full elevator shaft, pit, or machine room to the same specifications as commercial elevators.
  • Once the site is properly prepared, installation is often completed within a day to a few days depending on complexity.

    • Pricing Details

  • Commercial vertical platform lifts are more budget-friendly than commercial elevators because they require less equipment and generally involve fewer construction modifications.
  • Pricing varies based on the model, lifting height, platform size, entry and exit configuration, enclosure, site conditions, and selected options. Additional costs may include concrete work, landings, gates, electrical work, permits, and inspections.

    • READY TO GET STARTED?

    You don't have to navigate this alone.

    Whether you're just starting to think about mobility solutions or you're ready to explore specific options, we're here to help.

    Contact us now for your free consultation and fill out our simple online form.

    We'll listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and help you understand your options—all in the comfort of your own home, with no pressure and no obligation.

    Your independence is worth protecting. Let us show you how.

      Quick answers to commonly asked questions.

      Can a VPL be used as part of an accessible route?

      A properly selected and installed VPL may be used to provide an accessible route in many existing and new-building applications. The building use, project scope, applicable accessibility standards, and local code requirements must be reviewed.

      Commercial and public-building applications require different equipment ratings, controls, gates or doors, enclosures, platform sizes, signage, emergency features, and code approvals. A residential configuration is not suitable for a public building.

      Some projects can be completed without extensive design services, while others require architectural drawings, structural details, engineered foundations, or coordination with the building’s design professional. This depends on the scope and local requirements.

      Common site work includes a concrete foundation, upper landing modifications, gates or doors, guarding, electrical service, drainage improvements, bollards or barriers, weather protection, and restoration of surrounding finishes.

      Yes. Outdoor commercial installations require careful planning for drainage, weather exposure, roof runoff, snow and ice where applicable, corrosion protection, and safe public circulation around the lift.

      Timing depends on equipment availability, design, approvals, permitting, site preparation, and inspection scheduling. The project timeline should be established after the site and jurisdictional requirements are reviewed.

      Public-building applications commonly require permit review, inspection, and coordination with local authorities.

      Power requirements vary by product and configuration. Many vertical platform lifts use 120V AC, and some options include battery backup.

      A VPL may be a better fit when the rise requires a long and complex ramp layout, when space is limited, or when a more direct accessible route is needed.