Installing a lift in an older building or in a new property that has already been commissioned is a complex but entirely achievable task. It can significantly improve residents’ comfort, especially for people with limited mobility, elderly residents and families with young children. Below, we review the key aspects of installing a lift in older apartment blocks or private houses in Ukraine, taking into account both technical and legal requirements.
Can a lift be installed in a building without a lift shaft?
A lift can be installed in an existing building even if no lift shaft was included in the original design. Modern technologies make such projects possible through external or internal lift systems that do not require a conventional shaft, as well as compact solutions designed for restricted spaces.
Available options:
- External lift. Installed against the outside wall of the building. This is a popular solution for apartment blocks where there is no suitable space inside the property. An external lift requires minimal changes to the building’s internal structure, although additional approvals may be required due to alterations to the façade.
- Internal lift. Installed within the stairwell, basement or another suitable internal area. In some cases, part of the usable floor area, such as storage rooms or utility spaces, may need to be repurposed.
- Compact lifts for private homes. Small lifts are suitable for private houses and low-rise buildings and can be integrated into relatively limited spaces.
- Lifts without a conventional shaft. Modern solutions, including platform lifts and lifts with hydraulic or vacuum drive systems, do not require a deep lift pit, a full conventional shaft or a complex machine room.
Technical aspects of installing a lift in an existing building
Before any work begins, the building must undergo a detailed technical assessment to determine whether lift equipment can be installed safely. A structural evaluation is essential. Specialists inspect the load-bearing elements to confirm that the building can withstand the additional loads. This is particularly important in older residential buildings, including Khrushchev-era apartment blocks.
The next step is to provide suitable space for the lift shaft. If no shaft exists, a new one can be added to the building or an external supporting structure can be installed. In some cases, the shaft may be positioned within or next to the stairwell.
A lift requires a stable power supply, so the building’s electrical system may need to be upgraded. This is especially relevant for older properties.
Depending on residents’ needs and the available budget, the project may include a passenger lift, goods lift or combined-use lift. Compact, energy-efficient models are often selected for older buildings.
Legal requirements in Ukraine
In Ukraine, installing a lift in an existing building involves a number of legal and administrative procedures:
- Residents’ approval. In an apartment building, approval must be obtained from the required majority of co-owners. In most cases, the decision is taken at a general meeting of the condominium association and requires at least two-thirds of the votes.
- Permits and project documentation. A technical project must be prepared, approved by the relevant local authorities, supported by the required construction permits and checked for compliance with safety regulations.
- National building regulations. Lift design and installation in Ukraine are governed by the applicable DBN national building regulations.
- Project assessment. The lift installation project must be reviewed and approved by certified organisations that verify its compliance with technical standards and safety requirements.
Where can you order a lift for an older building in Kyiv?
Choose a leading Ukrainian lift manufacturer for your existing building and order reliable, affordable and modern lift equipment. Euroformat offers comfortable and safe lift solutions at competitive prices. We provide a wide range of new-generation lift equipment and develop customised projects tailored to the customer’s needs and requirements.
Our lifts are manufactured using components from trusted European brands and comply with current Ukrainian and European safety standards. We ensure that installation work is completed on schedule and provide professional lift maintenance after commissioning.
Contact us using the telephone number provided on the website, and we will find the most suitable solution for your building.
