Currently, for many residential communities in the Balearic Islands, installing vertical transportation systems not only improves the quality of life but also increases property value by up to 20%. There are residential buildings that are more than 30 years old and lack lifts.
But before starting the work, there's a key question: how much lift space is needed? Here, we'll discuss minimum dimensions, solutions for small spaces, and actual costs in the Spanish market.
Furthermore, it is important to highlight that the salinity and age of the buildings add particular and specific challenges.
What is the minimum space required to install a lift?
A lift shaft (or "pit") is a space that many people think is just a simple hole, but it's actually a fundamental element that must be evaluated every millimeter; it's not a technical whim, but a legal requirement.
In order to avoid tragic situations in the event of an emergency, the Technical Building Code (CTE) and the UNE-EN 81-20 standard establish that the minimum measures in Spain are:
Conventional lifts (4 people)
● Gap width: 1.20 m.
● Depth of the hole: 1.40 m.
● Clear height: 2.30 m (from the floor to the pit ceiling).
Freight lifts or stair lifts
● Width: 0.90 m.
● Depth: 1.10 m.
● Height: 2.00 m.
These measures ensure the cabin has room to maneuver and prevent the space from becoming too tight, with a safety margin of 10 cm in each direction.
However, these regulations must be adapted to all circumstances, and in historic buildings or those with irregular structures, the lift shaft may need to be enlarged.
For example, in the center of Palma de Mallorca, the 40% facilities require reinforcing load-bearing walls.
What to do if the lift space is insufficient?
In the Balearic Islands, where many buildings were constructed without considering this vertical means of transport, it's common to find lift shafts that are too narrow or short. There are several solutions, but they require technical analysis:
Reduce the elevator car
● Lifts for 2–3 people (width: 0.80 m, depth: 1.00 m).
● Swing doors (save 15 cm compared to sliding doors).
Install alternative systems
● Pneumatic lifts: they do not require a pit or machine room.
● Stairlifts: for buildings with openings less than 0.70 m.
Widen the gap from the elevator
● Partial demolition of non-structural partitions.
● Excavation of the pit (up to an additional 50 cm).
Before making any structural modifications to a lift shaft, a technical project approved by an architect and the approval of the community of neighbors are required to ensure the excellence and quality of the project, as unexpected last-minute problems, such as hidden pipes or high-voltage cables, can arise.
Types of lifts for small spaces
In this case, if your building doesn't allow for a lift shaft extension, don't worry, it's not the end of the world. Fortunately, in Spain, there are some ingenious options that allow for the installation and operation of this vertical means of transport, such as:
Compact hydraulic lifts
● Minimum measurements: 0.80 m × 0.90 m.
● Ideal for 2–3 people.
● Average cost: €25,000–€35,000 (installation included).
Pneumatic lifts (without cables)
● Minimum diameter: 0.75 m.
● They do not require a pit or civil works.
● Price: €20,000–€28,000.
Screw lifts (helical system)
● Narrow vertical gap (0.70 m × 0.70 m).
● Silent and suitable for heritage buildings.
● Cost: €30,000–€40,000.
Thanks to these exceptions within the standard measures, every person in the residential community would have the benefit of accessing their home without any problems.
Costs associated with adapting the lift shaft
The adaptation of the shaft for a lift depends on factors such as the type of structure, the accessibility of the building, and even the time of year (in summer, delivery times are 20% longer due to high demand).
However, with good planning and local professionals, like those at Eleva Balear, you can stay within budget without sacrificing safety.
Structural modifications to existing buildings
● Excavation of the lift shaft: €150–300/m² (depending on the type of soil).
● Wall reinforcement: €200–500/linear m (reinforced concrete).
● Creation of a maneuvering yard: €8,000–15,000 (if there is no space on the roof).
Price differences depending on the type of installation
● Conventional electric lift: €28,000–€45,000.
● Compact hydraulic lift: €25,000–35,000.
● Pneumatic lift: €20,000–28,000.
Factors that can make the work more expensive
● Historic buildings: +30% for procedures with Cultural Heritage.
● Urgent installation: +20% for work carried out at night.
● Complex foundations: +€5,000–10,000 if there are wells or old sewers.
Adapting a lift shaft can seem like a challenge, but we assure you that with proper planning and professional support, it can be kept within budget without compromising safety or quality.
Factors such as building structure, lift type, and permits can affect costs, but knowing these details in advance helps avoid unforeseen events.
Therefore, you'll be in good hands; we have the experience to make the process easier and more efficient, ensuring a safe and long-lasting installation.
At Eleva Balear we are specialists in lifts
Starting a lift shaft project in the Balearic Islands isn't just a matter of space, it's also a matter of experience. Since 2009, we've solved unique challenges:
● Impossible lift spaces: such as in a mansion in Dalt Vila (Ibiza), where we installed a glass lift in a 0.65 m wide courtyard.
● Legalization of works: we manage licenses.
● Post-installation maintenance: inspections starting at €50/month, with IoT sensors that prevent breakdowns.
Do you need personalized advice? In Eleva Balear We are professionals in installation of lifts in MallorcaWe take care of every detail, from the construction to the legal procedures.
It's time to get started on the lift shaft project in those buildings that need it so much. Contact us, and we'll be your best allies!
