According to data provided by the Association of Elevator Companies of the Valencian Community (ASCENCOVAL), 7,059 elevators have been repaired or replaced since the torrential rains. In recent months, significant progress has been observed, with approximately 320 elevators resolved out of the 780 pending since September, most of them with severe damage.
The pace of repairs has been exceptional, with an average of 20 elevators fixed per day, a figure that triples the sector's annual average of six. Emilio Carbonell, president of ASCENCOVAL, highlighted the «enormous effort» made by companies over the past 17 months, working beyond their usual capacity to ensure accessibility.
“"These data reflect the enormous effort of the companies over the last 17 months, working well above their usual capacity and prioritizing the most urgent repairs to guarantee people's accessibility."
By the end of March, 471 elevators remained pending. Of these, 262 have very serious damage, 38 serious, and 171 minor. Delays are often attributed to difficulties faced by homeowner associations in making decisions regarding high budgets and the complexity of interventions, which may require complete replacements or custom parts, with lead times of up to six months.
The shortage of skilled labor is another key factor. The surge in activity has multiplied the usual workload by seven, highlighting the need for new professionals. To address this, FEMEVAL and ASCENCOVAL, in collaboration with the Red Cross, have launched vocational training programs to bring new technicians into the sector.
The Generalitat Valenciana announced direct aid ranging from 1,000 to 50,000 euros for the repair or replacement of elevators in multi-family buildings with residents who have dependency (Grade II/III) or mobility disabilities. Approximately 320 applications were registered, and the Conselleria, led by the Vice President of the Consell, Susana Camarero, is currently evaluating the files to begin the resolution and granting of aid in the coming weeks.
