Refurbishing lifts in existing buildings is rarely straightforward. Unlike new installations, where a project can be designed around easy access and logistics, refurbishments often involve working within tight spaces, busy environments, and structures that were never designed with modern equipment in mind. One of the biggest challenges we encounter is how to safely and efficiently bring large machinery and components into motor rooms that can be difficult to reach.
A recent refurbishment project in Central London highlighted these challenges perfectly. The motor room was located at roof level, with no straightforward way to move the new equipment inside. Our team had to carefully plan the operation, which included cutting a temporary access point in the roof, arranging a Hiab crane, and securing permission from the local authorities to close the road below. These additional steps required close coordination and detailed preparation – but they ensured the work was carried out safely and with minimal disruption.
Once everything was in place, the benefits of good planning really showed. Despite the complexity of the setup, the actual machine drop into the motor room took just one hour. This efficiency was only possible thanks to the groundwork carried out in advance, with our team managing every detail from road closures to specialist lifting equipment. It’s a great example of how logistical challenges can be turned into smooth operations when handled by an experienced team.
At ACE Lifts, we understand that every refurbishment is unique, and overcoming access challenges is part of what we do best. Whether it’s navigating confined spaces, working around live environments, or securing approvals from multiple stakeholders, our focus is always on delivering the project safely, efficiently, and with as little disruption as possible. With the right expertise, even the trickiest access problems can be solved – and a refurbished lift can be back in service, providing many more years of reliable operation.
