Lighting hub

Looking to upgrade your lighting?

Good lighting can completely transform a room, but getting it right takes a bit more than screwing in a new bulb.

Whether you're after a statement chandelier, stylish recessed lighting, or a full ceiling lighting refresh, we've got everything you need to get the job done right.

From choosing the right fittings for bedrooms, bathrooms and hallways, to knowing when a job is DIY-friendly and when you'll need a qualified electrician.

The stages of a lighting project

No two lighting jobs are the same, but most follow a similar process:

• Planning your lighting scheme

• Choosing fittings and getting quotes

• Knowing what you can DIY, and what needs a professional

• Installation

• Testing and safety checks

Not every lighting job needs an electrician — swapping a bulb or a like-for-like pendant is usually fine to DIY. But anything involving new wiring, circuits, or work in a bathroom should be left to a qualified electrician.

Take a look at the different guides we have:

Looking to find out more about lighting?

• What DIY electrical work you're allowed to do yourself

• How to choose the right ceiling lighting

• How much an electrician costs

Questions for your electrician

If your lighting project needs a professional, asking the right questions can make all the difference. Use this list to make sure you're choosing the right person for the job:

Qualifications and Experience

• Are you registered with a Government-approved scheme, such as the Competent Person Register, NICEIC, NAPIT or ECA?

• How long have you been a lighting installer?

• Can you show me examples of similar lighting installations you've completed?

• Do you have experience with the specific fitting I want (e.g. chandeliers, recessed lighting, smart lighting)?

Project Specifics

• Will this job require any new wiring or circuits?

• Is my ceiling or wall strong enough to support this fitting, or will extra support be needed?

• If this is for a bathroom, will the fitting and installation meet the right IP (ingress protection) rating?

• Will you need to chase into walls or lift floorboards to run new cable?

Quotes and Contracts

• Is this a fixed quote or an estimate?

• Does the price include the fitting, or just labour?

• Do you charge a call-out fee or have a minimum charge?

• What's your day rate or hourly rate for smaller jobs?

Project Management

• How long will the installation take?

• Will you need to turn off my power for any part of the job?

• What happens if you find an issue with the existing wiring once you start?

Certification, Insurance and Guarantees

• Will I receive any certification confirming the work meets current safety standards?

• Do you have Public Liability Insurance? Can I see proof?

• What warranty do you offer on the work and the fitting?