Once an afterthought, gardens and garden lighting are now just as important to many
homeowners as the interior of their home.
This NICEIC fact sheet offers illumination, inspiration and advice on how to install garden lighting professionally and safely.
Q Are there any rules for carrying out electrical work in the garden?
Rules in England and Wales were tightened in 2005 to prevent the number of accidents caused by faulty electrical work. All electrical work in the garden must now be carried out in accordance with national safety standards and comply with Part P of the Building Regulations.
Q Can I carry out the work myself?
You should only carry out work if you are able to do so in accordance with the wiring regulations BS7671 and can inspect and test that it is safe for use. To comply with the law you must notify your local building control office before starting any work and pay the appropriate fee for it to be inspected.
Alternatively an electrician registered with a government approved Part P scheme, such as NICEIC, should carry out the work.
What to consider?
Time spent planning your lighting scheme will enhance your garden’s best features.
- Visit local garden centres, DIY chains, electrical wholesalers and look at websites, such
as www.allweatherlighting.co.uk, for inspiration. - Concentrate on the most attractive features, such as a plant or water feature, and
don’t light everything in sight. - Think practically – light up steps and paths for safe access and combine
with security lights. - Think about the controls – there are various options from wall-mounted light switches
to hand held remote controls. - Avoid positioning lights so that they shine into a neighbour’s window.
- Some outdoor lights can get hot, so place out of reach of small children.
- Use an electrician registered with a government approved Part P scheme to carry
out the work, such as one registered with NICEIC. Download our Part P Factsheet for more details.
To read the full factsheet please download the PDF.
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