The lift: a convenience or a worry?

The lift is one of those amenities that are gaining ever greater recognition among residents of blocks of flats. It is particularly appreciated by mothers with children, older people and those with mobility difficulties. Although each of us would like to have access to a lift, not everyone wants to live right next to the shaft. Wondering whether living near a lift is really still a cause for concern? Find out!

A flat next to the lift shaft – what challenges come with such a choice?

Many of us remember the old lifts in the prefabricated concrete-slab blocks (wielka płyta) that were built in the communist-era People's Republic of Poland (PRL). The lifts were loud and generated noise during journeys. Riding a lift in such buildings could be quite a stressful experience, because the equipment frequently broke down. What is more, the sounds reached not only the flats located directly next to the shaft, but also those in other parts of the building. As a result, people living next to the lift feared that the noise would disturb them, especially at night. Such memories affect the perceived quality of life in properties next to lifts. Many people, especially if the lift is right behind the bedroom wall, worry about disruptive noise. For this reason, when deciding whether to buy a flat close to the shaft, people often weigh up the risk of their peace and quiet being disturbed.

Modern lifts – silence instead of noise

It is worth noting, however, that over the last dozen or so years passenger lifts have undergone an enormous transformation. Modern equipment is completely different from that of the 70s or 80s of the 20th century. Today lifts are designed with residents' comfort in mind. The use of modern materials, better drive and brake technologies and precise control systems means that a lift journey is quiet and smooth.

Modern lifts do not generate noise when starting or stopping. The doors open and close almost without making any sound at all. What is more, such equipment can be installed not only in new-build developments, but also in older prefabricated concrete-slab blocks. Many such buildings have already replaced their old lifts with new ones, improving living comfort for residents next to the lift shaft.

Dreaming of a place of your own? Use the services of an estate agency in Katowice

Whether you want to live in a building with a lift or without one, there are many aspects worth considering when buying a property. Location, floor area, number of rooms, standard of finish – these are just some of the factors that should influence your decision. If you need the help of experts who will advise you on choosing the ideal flat, contact me. As an experienced estate agent in Katowice:

• I will analyse the market and present you with the most interesting listings, so you will avoid tediously browsing through adverts;
• I will help with negotiations with the property owner and guide you through all the formalities related to the transaction;
• I will make sure the transaction is carried out in accordance with the law and that you are not cheated.

Summary

Although some people may still be wary of flats next to lift shafts, it is worth remembering that today's technologies have significantly reduced potential noise. If, despite this, you do not feel comfortable with the idea of living close to a lift shaft, a good solution will be to look for a property on other floors away from it.