Fixington

Install Recessed Lighting

Trade: Electrician

⭐ Introduction

Recessed lighting, sometimes called downlights or spotlights, is a popular way to create a modern, streamlined look in your home. Instead of bulky light fittings hanging from your ceiling, recessed lights sit flush with the surface, offering subtle, evenly distributed illumination.

You might consider installing recessed lighting when renovating a space, updating older ceiling lights, or improving the overall ambience of a room. They work well in kitchens, living rooms, hallways, and bathrooms (with the right IP rating).

If you want a clean finish with versatile lighting options, recessed lighting is a practical upgrade worth considering.

🔧 What the job involves

Installing recessed lighting is more than just popping some lights into the ceiling. It generally includes:

  • Planning and design: Deciding how many lights are needed, their positions, and how they will be controlled (dimmers, switches, smart systems).
  • Cutting holes in the ceiling: Each light needs a precise hole, usually 75–100mm diameter, cut into plasterboard or ceiling tiles.
  • Wiring: Running new or extending existing electrical cables to each lighting point. This must be done safely and in compliance with Part P of the Building Regulations.
  • Installing the light fittings: Securing the downlights in place. Many modern LED downlights have spring clips for easy fitting.
  • Connecting to the mains: Wiring the fitting into the circuit, often via a junction box or back box.
  • Testing: Ensuring all lights work correctly and are safely installed.

Because the electrical work affects your home’s safety, it’s essential that an electrician with the correct qualifications carries out the installation.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

  1. Initial enquiry
    Get in touch with a Gas Safe or NICEIC-registered electrician (even for non-gas work, electrical qualifications matter). Explain your needs and arrange for a site visit if possible.

  2. Survey and quote
    The electrician will visit your home to assess the ceiling type, access to electrical wiring, number of lights required, and any special considerations—for example, insulation or fire barriers above the ceiling.

  3. Quotation and agreement
    You’ll receive a written quote specifying materials, labour, timeframe, and any warranty details. Once agreed, a work date is booked.

  4. Day of works
    The electrician arrives, begins by isolating the circuit at the consumer unit (fuse box), cuts holes, runs cables, installs fittings, and tests everything. The area around your work space is covered to reduce dust and debris.

  5. Completion and certificate
    Once finished, the electrician tests the installation and issues a Part P Building Regulations compliance certificate if applicable. They’ll tidy the area and explain any care instructions.

💷 Main costs to expect

  • Labour: £40 to £60 per hour, depending on electrician’s experience and location.
  • Materials/parts: LED downlights cost about £10 to £30 each, depending on quality and features. Additional costs for cables, back boxes, and fittings.
  • Extras: New consumer unit connection points or wiring upgrades can add cost.
  • Disposal: Minimal, mainly packaging and cut ceiling material, usually included in labour.
  • Certification: Part P compliance certification is usually included in electrician’s fee, but worth checking.

Example: Installing 6 LED recessed lights in an existing ceiling might cost:

  • Labour: 6–8 hours (£240–£480)
  • Lights and materials: £120–£180
  • Certification: Included
  • Total estimate: £360–£660

📊 What affects the price

  • Accessibility of your ceiling space (loft access or difficult ceiling types).
  • Number of downlights and complexity of wiring routes.
  • Type and quality of downlights chosen (e.g., dimmable, smart LED).
  • Compliance with Building Regulations — if remedial works needed for fire safety or insulation.
  • Location — electricians in London or the South East often charge more.
  • Urgency — emergency or out-of-hours work usually costs extra.

⏱ How long does it take?

  • Simple upgrade: Replacing a few existing ceiling lights with recessed lights can take around 2–4 hours.
  • New installation in standard-access ceiling: Typically 4–8 hours for a room with 6–8 downlights.
  • More complex scenarios: Installing in insulated ceilings or where fire barriers need adjusting might take 1–2 days.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

While the physical fitting of downlights might seem straightforward, the electrical wiring element should only be done by a qualified electrician authorised under Part P regulations.

Incorrect wiring risks electric shock, fire, and invalidates insurance. DIY electrical work without certification can cause problems when selling your home.

If you have experience and the correct qualifications (NVQ Level 3 or equivalent), you can install recessed lighting yourself, but most homeowners should always hire a professional.

💰 Typical UK price range

You can expect to pay roughly between £300 and £1,200 for a typical recessed lighting installation in a room with 4–8 lights.

This estimate includes parts, labour, and compliance certification. VAT at 20% applies to most electrician services unless you are eligible for a reduced VAT rate (e.g., certain energy-saving installations).

✅ Handy tips before you start

  • Check if your existing consumer unit has capacity for new circuits or if upgrades are needed.
  • Decide how many lights you want and where — planning beforehand reduces changes on the day.
  • Discuss dimmers or smart controls with your electrician to future-proof your installation.
  • Clear the work area of furniture and cover floors to protect from dust.
  • Keep copies of all paperwork, certificates, and receipts for your records and future home sales.
  • Ask about warranties on fittings and workmanship — typically, electricians offer 1 to 3 years.
  • After installation, regularly check that fittings are secure and free from dust; clean with a dry cloth when cold.

Installing recessed lighting is a straightforward way to improve your home’s lighting and ambience. With the right preparation and a skilled electrician, you can enjoy a smart-looking ceiling and efficient lighting that suits your daily needs.