Fixington

Fix a light or light switch which isn’t working properly

Trade: Electrician

⭐ Introduction

A light or light switch that isn’t working properly can be more than just an inconvenience — it might affect your daily routines or signal an underlying electrical issue. Whether a light flickers, a switch doesn’t respond, or a whole circuit seems faulty, fixing the problem promptly ensures safety and comfort in your home.

Common causes include worn-out switches, loose wiring, faulty bulbs, or issues with the fuse or consumer unit. Sometimes the problem appears after minor damage or as part of ageing electrical components. Since lighting is essential and electrical faults can pose risks, calling a qualified electrician is usually the safest approach.

🔧 What the job involves

When an electrician comes to fix a faulty light or switch, they will:

  • Diagnose the issue, usually by inspecting the switch, light fittings, wiring, and your fuse board.
  • Test the circuit voltages and continuity with specialised tools to pinpoint faults such as loose connections or damaged components.
  • Replace or repair the switch, wiring, or light fitting as needed.
  • Check that everything is safe and complies with UK electrical safety standards, including Part P of the Building Regulations.
  • Test the repaired light or switch to make sure it’s working properly.

If the problem is more complex (for example, damaged wiring within a wall), additional work might be required. The electrician will advise you on any recommended repairs or upgrades.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Initial enquiry: Contact a registered electrician—ideally someone who is Part P certified—to describe the problem and arrange a visit.
  2. Survey and quote: The electrician visits your home, inspects the issue, then provides a written quote including materials and labour.
  3. Agree and schedule: Once you accept the quote, book a convenient day for the repair work.
  4. Day of the work: The electrician arrives on time, isolates power to the affected circuit, fixes the faulty switch or light, and tests the repair.
  5. Wrap-up: They tidy the work area, explain what was done, advise on maintenance, and provide any necessary paperwork such as a Minor Electrical Installation Works Certificate.
  6. Payment and follow-up: You pay the agreed amount (usually including VAT), and keep hold of any certificates or documentation for your records.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: Electricians typically charge between £40 and £70 per hour depending on experience and location.
  • Materials/parts: Light switches cost from around £5 to £15; energy-efficient LED bulbs or fittings may cost £10 to £40.
  • Extras: If wiring replacement or rewiring is needed, expect an additional charge.
  • Disposal: Minor, often included, but disposal fees may apply for bulky or hazardous waste.
  • Certification: If required by Building Regulations, a certificate could cost £50–£100.

Example:
Labour (1 hour): £60
Materials (switch + bulb): £20
Certification: £75
Total estimate: £155 (including VAT)

📊 What affects the price

  • Accessibility: For example, lights in high ceilings or tricky positions may take longer.
  • Complexity: Simple switch replacements cost less than extensive rewiring jobs.
  • Regulations and certification: Work needing Part P compliance or electrical safety certificates may increase cost.
  • Remedial works: If underlying faults such as damaged cables are found.
  • Location: Prices in London and the South East tend to be higher.
  • Timeline: Emergency or out-of-hours services cost more.

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Simple repairs: Replacing a faulty switch or bulb typically takes 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  • Moderate jobs: Repairing wiring or replacing a light fitting might take 1 to 2 hours.
  • Complex work: Extensive rewiring, installing additional sockets, or upgrading a consumer unit can take a full day or more.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

Fixing light switches or lights involves working with electrical circuits, which poses safety risks if handled incorrectly. Work that involves altering fixed wiring requires compliance with Part P regulations. Non-compliant electrical work can:

  • Void household insurance.
  • Endanger you and your family.
  • Fail building inspections.

You might safely replace a light bulb or a plug-in lamp yourself, but basic switch replacement is best left to a qualified electrician, particularly if you must isolate and work on live wiring.

💰 Typical UK price range

A straightforward light or switch repair usually costs between £80 and £200 including VAT. More complex jobs or regulatorily required certification might push that higher. Always ask for a written quote before agreeing to any works.

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Turn off power at the consumer unit before inspecting any light fittings or switches yourself.
  • Take note of where switches operate from and what lights they control to aid diagnostics.
  • Choose a Part P registered electrician to ensure compliance with UK electrical safety standards.
  • Keep all receipts, certification, and quotes for warranty and insurance purposes.
  • Ask the electrician if there’s recommended ongoing maintenance or checks.
  • If issues recur, don’t ignore them – electrical faults can worsen over time and pose safety hazards.

By following these steps, you can get your home lighting back to full working order safely and efficiently.