Can You Add an Elevator to an Existing Home in Boise?

Yes. Most homes in Boise and the Treasure Valley can add an elevator, even if they were never built for one. The real questions are where it goes, which type fits, and how much construction your house needs.

This guide walks through how a retrofit works, so you know what to expect before anyone opens a wall. To talk through your home, request a consultation or call (208) 329-5006.

Where can an elevator go in an existing home?

Most retrofits use one of these spots:

• Stacked closets. A closet on the main floor directly below a closet upstairs is the classic location. The floor opening goes where the closets were, and little living space is lost.
• A corner of the garage. Garage space is often easy to build in and puts the elevator right where you arrive with groceries or a wheelchair.
• An exterior addition. When there’s no room inside, the shaft can be built on the outside of the house with a door into each floor.
• Next to the stairwell. Space beside or under the stairs is sometimes enough for a compact elevator.

Split-level and daylight-basement homes, which are common across Boise, Meridian and Eagle, often make it worth reaching three levels instead of two. Think about the basement and the garage now, even if the main need is upstairs.

Which type of elevator fits a retrofit?

If a wheelchair user will ride now or later, say so first. It rules out many compact models and decides the cab and door size. Read more in our home elevator cost guide. Also see types of home elevators, home elevator maintenance, wheelchair-accessible home elevators and home elevator or move?

What construction to expect

1. Site visit and measurements. Floors, ceiling heights, the attic or roof above, and the electrical panel.
2. Design and permits. Your city or county may require building and electrical permits for the work around the elevator. Idaho’s state elevator law exempts conveyances in private residences (Idaho Code § 39-8606), but local rules still apply.
3. Opening the floors. Cutting and reinforcing the floor at each level, and moving any ductwork, plumbing or wiring in the way.
4. Framing the shaft (for shaft-type elevators) and, for some drive types, a shallow pit or a level pad.
5. Electrical. Usually a dedicated circuit, plus lighting and an emergency phone or communication device.
6. Elevator installation, then drywall, paint and trim around the doors.
7. Inspection and handover, including how to use it and what yearly service looks like.

Timelines vary with the elevator type, the construction and the permit schedule. Ask for a written timeline that includes inspections.

Retrofit or plan for the future?

Not ready yet? You can still make a future elevator easier:

• Remodeling a closet? Line it up with the one above or below.
• Replacing a roof or HVAC? Keep ducts and trusses clear of a future shaft spot.
• Upgrading the electrical panel? Leave room for a dedicated circuit.

Building new? See our guide for planning an elevator in a new home.

Frequently asked questions

How much space does a home elevator need?

It depends on the type and cab size. Shaftless models need the least; a wheelchair-size cab needs more. A site visit gives you real numbers for your floor plan.

Can a home elevator fit a wheelchair?

Many can, if the cab and doors are sized for it from the start. Many compact and through-floor models cannot.

Will I have to move out during installation?

Usually not. Expect a construction area, some noise and dust, and short shut-offs for power.

Does adding an elevator increase home value?

It can make a home more appealing to buyers planning to age in place, but resale impact varies, so don’t count on recouping the full cost.

Do you install outside Boise?

Yes. Our main service area is Boise and the Treasure Valley, plus roughly 250 miles around Boise. See areas we serve.