Broken light pull

wannabe_sybil

I am sorry to post here, but I have no idea where to start with google.

I pulled the cord light pull in the bathroom and it came out of the thingy on the ceiling. Is it hard to mend? Do I need a registered electrician? Will it be expensive?

Grateful for any answers.

AdrianW2

Do you mean the cord came out? There's usually a little plastic thing near the ceiling that allows you to rethread the cord through if it snaps.

Failing that a new switch is cheap, fairly easy to change and a like-for-like swap shouldn't need building control approval.

wannabe_sybil

Adrian - thank you so much for your quick reply! There is sort of a cup type thing attached to the ceiling and the cord just pulled out of there, and there is just a hole where the cord came out.

I haven't had a good opportunity to get the ladders to look closer, and I am a bit nervous of making things worse if it is difficult.

Edited to add - building control approval? Is that where you have to get a registered person or do you need planning permission?

Sorry to be so dim.

AdrianW2

Sounds like it has pulled out inside the switch then, not at the weak link. I once spent hours attempting to re-thread the pull-cord inside a fitting before giving up and replacing the whole switch, so I'm afraid I can't help.

To oversimplify, as discussed here passim, fixed electrical works in "special locations" in the bathroom need to be notified to and approved by building control (not planning) or done by a registered electrician who can self-certify but I think, and I'm sure someone will correct me if I'm wrong, a like-for-like replacement is exempt.

jimbo_the_jetset

My understanding is new installations require certified electrician. Replacement is fine for DIY.

Although the poster does not sound too DIY confident (correct me if I'm wrong), so probably best to get someone in. New fitting = £2, labour = £20?? (guess)

suisidevw

Literally 2 screws and 3 wires iirc. Just turn off the mains and give it a spin!

wannabe_sybil

Thank you for your replies. I really appreciate them.

No, not very confident with DIY, but light is permanently on at the moment.

When my little boy is having his nap I shall turn off the electrics (:o at least I know where they are) and have a closer look.

Is B&Q the best place to go for any replacements?

reddevilled

Yes, B&Q should stock them. If possible take the old fitting with you and ask them to help if unsure - obviously making sure the exposed wiring left at home is turned off!

macman

An independent electrical/lighting shop is more likely to be able to advise you if you're not confident.

AdrianW2

wannabe_sybil wrote: »

Is B&Q the best place to go for any replacements?

As good a place as any if it's convenient, B&Q sell a MK branded switch for £3.50, which is only a little more expensive than online or unbranded prices.

You need 6A one-way or two-way (it doesn't matter), don't get distracted by the more expensive shower switches.

aamuk

The MK ones are better quality compared to other manufacturers, so try to get one of those as they tend to last longer.