Bedco Mobility works directly with general contractors and builders throughout Maryland, Washington D.C., and Northern Virginia — as a specialty subcontractor on new construction and renovation projects, or as a direct referral partner for clients who need accessibility work handled alongside a larger build.

We make the accessibility scope easy to manage. Our in-house, factory-certified technicians handle every installation directly — no subcontractors within our subcontract. We provide clear rough-in drawings upfront, coordinate directly with your site superintendent, show up on schedule, and manage our own permitting and inspections through sign-off. We do not create surprises on your job site.

We have worked alongside general contractors on projects ranging from custom residential new builds to historic building renovations, school construction programs, healthcare facility upgrades, and commercial tenant fit-outs. If accessibility equipment is in the scope, we are the right call.

FAQ — General Contractors & Builders

Q: Can Bedco Mobility work as a subcontractor on our project?

Yes — we work directly as a specialty subcontractor on new construction and renovation projects throughout Maryland, DC, and Virginia. We are set up to be properly subcontracted from day one: licensed in all three jurisdictions, fully insured, and experienced working within general contractor project management structures. Contact us to discuss your project and we will provide a scope and price.

Q: How early do you need to be involved in a project?

For elevator projects, as early as possible — ideally before framing begins, so your structural and framing subs have our rough-in drawings before they start. For stairlifts and platform lifts, we can engage closer to installation since they require minimal pre-work. As a rule, earlier engagement means fewer surprises and smoother scheduling.

Q: Do you provide rough-in drawings?

Yes — for all elevator and lift products requiring structural preparation, we provide detailed rough-in drawings showing hoistway dimensions, structural load requirements, pit specifications, electrical rough-in locations, and door opening specifications. These are provided as early as possible in your schedule so your framing and electrical subs can plan accordingly.

Q: Who handles the permits for the accessibility equipment scope?

We do. Bedco Mobility manages the permit application process for our scope of work independently in Maryland, DC, and Virginia. We pull our own permits, track them, and manage all required elevator authority inspections through final sign-off. You do not need to include our permit in your general building permit application.

Q: How long does installation take?

It depends on the product. Straight stairlift installations typically take half a day. Curved stairlifts take one day. Platform lifts take one day. Residential elevator installations take two to three days for the equipment installation itself, following completion of the hoistway by your framing sub. We coordinate installation timing with your superintendent to fit your construction sequence.

Q: What if the rough-in is not correct when you arrive?

We inspect the rough-in before we mobilize for installation — not after. If something is off, we identify it while it is still easy to fix, not when we are standing on your job site with equipment. We provide a rough-in inspection checklist in advance so your superintendent knows exactly what we will be checking.

Q: Do you offer service agreements for the building owner after handover?

Yes. We offer service and preventive maintenance agreements directly to the building owner after project handover. This means the accessibility scope does not become a recurring warranty or callback issue for your firm. Your client has a dedicated local service team, and you have a clean closeout.

Q: Are you licensed to work in Maryland, DC, and Virginia?

Yes. Bedco Mobility holds full elevator contractor licenses in Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia. All our technicians are factory-certified for the products they install, and we carry comprehensive general liability and workers’ compensation insurance. We can provide certificates of insurance in your required format upon request.

Q: What is the difference between a commercial and residential wheelchair lift?

Commercial wheelchair lifts are built to a higher duty cycle than residential units — they are designed to handle more frequent use, higher traffic volumes, and the additional safety and code requirements that apply to public buildings. They also carry higher weight capacities and must meet ADA and IBC (International Building Code) requirements, which are more stringent than residential standards. Bedco Mobility specifies commercial-grade equipment for all public building installations.

Q: Does my building need to be ADA compliant?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires most public accommodations, commercial facilities, and state and local government entities to provide accessible routes between levels. If your building has stairs that create a barrier to access, you may be required to provide an accessible alternative — a platform lift, inclined lift, or elevator, depending on the configuration.

Bedco Mobility works with facilities managers and ADA coordinators to assess your building and specify the right solution for your compliance requirements. We are not lawyers and cannot provide legal ADA advice, but we can walk you through the equipment options and connect you with the right resources.

Q: Can you install a lift in a historic building?

Yes — this is one of our specialties. Historic buildings present unique challenges: structural modification must often be minimized, aesthetic impact is a concern, and local historic preservation authorities may need to approve any changes. Bedco Mobility has extensive experience working within these constraints. Commercial inclined platform lifts are often the best solution for historic buildings, as they install on existing stairways with minimal structural impact and can be removed without permanent modification.

Q: Do you offer service contracts for commercial installations?

Yes. Bedco Mobility offers service and preventive maintenance agreements for all commercial installations. Our service technicians are full-time, in-house Bedco Mobility employees — not subcontractors — and provide scheduled maintenance visits, priority response for service calls, and full documentation for your compliance records. Ask about service agreement options when requesting your project quote.

Q: How long does a commercial lift installation take?

Installation timelines vary depending on the product type, building configuration, and permitting requirements. A commercial inclined lift or vertical platform lift can often be installed in one to two days once permitting is in place. More complex projects involving structural preparation may take longer. We provide a realistic project timeline during your initial consultation.

Q: Do you handle permits for commercial accessibility installations?

Yes. Bedco Mobility manages the permit application process for commercial accessibility installations throughout Maryland, Washington D.C., and Northern Virginia. All installations are inspected and approved by the relevant authorities before being placed into service.

Q: What areas do you serve for commercial projects?

Bedco Mobility serves commercial clients throughout Maryland, Washington D.C., and Northern Virginia — including Baltimore, Bethesda, Rockville, Silver Spring, Annapolis, Columbia, Ellicott City, Washington DC, Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax, McLean, Reston, and all surrounding areas. Contact us to discuss your specific location.