Lift inspections in blocks of flats.
In short
A passenger lift needs a thorough examination by a competent person at least every six months under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998, unless an examination scheme drawn up by a competent person sets a different interval. LOLER applies where the lift is used at work, which in a block includes cleaners, caretakers and contractors, and insurers expect it regardless.
How often must a lift in a block be examined?
At least every six months for lifting equipment that carries people, or at the intervals in an examination scheme, and after anything likely to affect its safety, such as a major repair. The examination is usually carried out by an engineer from the building's engineering insurer.
Is a thorough examination the same as servicing?
No. Maintenance keeps the lift running and is done by the lift contractor under the maintenance contract. The thorough examination is an independent check of whether it is safe to use, by someone who is not maintaining it, and it produces a written report.
What happens if the examiner finds a serious defect?
The examiner must tell the person responsible straight away and confirm it in the report. If the defect involves an existing or imminent risk of serious personal injury, the examiner must also send a copy to the enforcing authority, and the lift should not be used until it is put right.
Where Servanda comes in
Servanda reads each examination report, puts the next one six months out on the register, and turns every defect into a dated action that can go straight to the lift contractor as a works order.
Everything Servanda doesThe law
The legislation is the authority; this page is a plain summary for England, checked on 2026-10-23. Wales and Scotland have their own rules. Take advice on any particular building.