Can I Replace My Own Light Fittings? A straight-talking guide for Exeter homeowners

We’ve had a lot of people ask us over the years:
“Can I change my own light fitting, or do I need an electrician?”

And it’s a fair question. With DIY tutorials all over the internet and lighting updates being a popular home upgrade, it’s tempting to tackle it yourself.

So here’s the real answer — when you can do it yourself, when you shouldn’t, and what you need to know before getting started.

When It’s Usually Fine to DIY

If you’re simply replacing like-for-like — for example, swapping a pendant light with another pendant in the same location — this is generally allowed under UK regulations.

You don’t need to be Part P registered to do basic electrical jobs like this in your own home, as long as:

You’re confident in what you’re doing
The existing wiring is in good condition
The new fitting is installed correctly and safely
You isolate the power fully before starting

In most cases, it’s perfectly legal — but remember, legal doesn’t always mean advisable.

When You Should Leave It to a Pro

Here’s when you definitely want to call someone like us at EPM:

You’re not 100% sure how to work safely with electrics
The wiring behind the fitting looks damaged or unfamiliar
You’re working in a bathroom or kitchen (special regulations apply)
You’re installing a ceiling fan, chandelier, or heavier fixture
The new light requires a transformer or integrated LED driver

Also, if the job reveals dodgy wiring (which happens more than you’d think in older Exeter homes), we can inspect it properly and make sure it’s safe before anything gets connected.

A Quick Word on Bathrooms

Bathrooms are a special case. Zone rules apply, and fittings must meet specific IP ratings (ingress protection) to be safe around moisture.

If in doubt — especially with lighting over showers or baths — always bring in a qualified electrician.

What Can Go Wrong?

We’ve been called out to homes where:

Fixtures were wired backwards (causing constant tripping)
Terminals weren’t tightened, leading to burnt cables
Metal fittings weren’t earthed — a serious shock risk
DIYers drilled into hidden cables trying to mount fittings

Light fitting swaps may seem simple, but the risks are real if things go wrong. And insurance may not cover damage caused by unqualified electrical work.

Selling or Renting? Think Twice

If you’re renting out your property, or planning to sell, bear in mind that any unsafe DIY work could hold up a safety check or EICR report.

When in doubt, it’s safer (and easier long-term) to have a registered electrician handle it — especially if you’re dealing with old or unclear wiring.

What We’d Recommend at EPM

If you’re confident, handy, and changing a basic fitting in a dry room — go ahead, just take your time and stay safe.

If there’s any uncertainty, or the fitting looks more complicated than expected, don’t risk it. We can come out, get it done quickly and safely, and even check the rest of the circuit while we’re there.

Sometimes a “small job” reveals bigger issues — and we’d rather you caught them early than risk a shock (literally or financially).

Need Help or Just Want It Done Right?

We handle lighting installs and upgrades across Exeter — from quick swaps to full rewires. No fuss, no pressure. Just proper, professional work that’s safe, certified, and compliant.

📞 Give us a shout if you’re unsure, or book online and we’ll get it sorted.

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