Move a light switch

Trade: Electrician

⭐ Introduction

Moving a light switch means relocating the location of an existing switch to a more convenient or desired position within your home. This might be needed if you’re redecorating, rearranging furniture, adding an extension, or simply want easier access to control a light.

It’s a common task but one that involves electrical wiring, so safety and compliance with UK electrical regulations are important. A registered electrician can help complete the job safely and ensure everything meets current standards.

🔧 What the job involves

Moving a light switch isn’t just about unscrewing the old one and fitting it somewhere else on the wall. It includes:

Isolating power: Ensuring the electricity is off at the fuse board to work safely.
Removing the old switch: Carefully taking out the existing switch, disconnecting the wiring.
Routing wiring: Running new cables from the old switch position to the new one. This may involve chasing into walls (cutting channels in plaster or drylining) or using surface trunking, depending on your preference and wall type.
Fixing a new back box: Installing the electrical back box (the mounting box for the switch) in the new location, flush with the wall.
Connecting the switch: Wiring the new switch correctly, following UK wiring colour codes and standards.
Testing: Checking the light switch operates correctly without faults.
Repairing finishes: Making good any wall damage caused by chasing or fitting the back box.

Because this work deals with mains electricity, it must comply with Building Regulations Part P. Using a qualified electrician ensures the job is legal and safe.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

Initial enquiry: Contact a qualified electrician to discuss what you want, your reasons for moving the switch, and property details.
Survey and quote: The electrician visits to assess the job. They’ll check the condition of existing wiring, wall types, and any restrictions. You’ll receive a written quote detailing costs, timeframe, and scope.
Booking the job: Agree on a date for the work. Provide any access information or special requests.
Day of work: The electrician arrives, isolates power at the consumer unit (fuse box), removes the old switch, routes new cables, installs the back box in the desired location, connects the switch, and tests operation.
Making good: They repair any wall damage, leaving the area tidy.
Certification: If required (typically with mains wiring), they’ll provide an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) or Minor Works Certificate as proof of compliance with Part P regulations.
Payment and aftercare: Settle the invoice, keep paperwork safe. Ask about warranties or ongoing maintenance advice.

💷 Main costs to expect

Labour: £80–£150 per hour depending on electrician’s experience and location. Moving a switch typically takes 1–3 hours.
Materials: Switch and back box (£10–£30), wiring (a few metres of cable, £5–£20), wall repair materials (£10–£30).
Extras: Surface trunking if chasing walls isn’t possible (£20–£50), decorating (plastering, paint, usually not included in electrician’s fee).
Disposal: Usually none significant, but any waste materials may incur a minimal fee (~£10).
Certification: Including Part P cert, £30–£70.

Example estimate:

Item	Cost (£)
Labour (2 hrs)	120
Switch & back box	20
Cable & materials	15
Certification	50
Total approx.	£205

📊 What affects the price

Access: More difficult locations (roof voids, inaccessible walls) take longer to work on.
Wall type: Solid brick or concrete walls may need more work than plasterboard walls when chasing wiring.
Regulations: Compliance with Building Regs Part P and needing certification adds time and cost.
Remedial wiring: If cables are old or unsafe, extra rewiring may be necessary.
Location: Rates vary across the UK, often higher in London and the South East.
Timescales: Urgent or out-of-hours jobs tend to cost more.

⏱ How long does it take?

Simple switch move (same circuit, easy wall surface): Around 1–2 hours.
Complex installation (solid walls, long cable runs, additional rewiring): Up to 3–4 hours.
Additional wall repairs or decorating: May add further time depending on complexity.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

While moving a light switch might seem straightforward, it is an electrical job and should not be taken lightly.

You must be competent in electrical work, understand wiring colours and circuit layouts.
UK law requires that alterations to fixed electrical installations comply with Building Regulations Part P.
Incorrect wiring presents serious risks, including fire and electric shock.
Certifying work yourself isn’t possible; an approved electrician must issue the necessary paperwork.
If in doubt, hire a Gas Safe-registered or NICEIC-certified electrician.

DIY attempts without proper knowledge and paperwork may also affect your home insurance.

💰 Typical UK price range

Most homeowners can expect to pay between £150 and £300 (including VAT) to move a single light switch. This estimate includes labour, materials, and certification but can vary based on complexity and location.

✅ Handy tips before you start

Plan location carefully: Consider how you use the space and furniture placement for convenient switch access.
Check wiring type: Older homes may have wiring types (like metal conduit or obsolete cables) which can complicate the job.
Inform your electrician about your fuse box: Some circuits may be harder to isolate.
Prepare the area: Remove furniture and cover floors to protect from dust or debris.
Keep certification documents: They prove compliance and are useful when selling your home or if future work is done.
Ask about warranties: Find out if parts or labour have any guarantees.
Consider additional work: Such as adding extra sockets or switches while the electrician is onsite, for cost-effectiveness.

Moving a light switch may seem small, but done properly it’s an important part of making your home safer and more comfortable. Hiring a qualified professional ensures it’s done right — and gives you peace of mind.