Ceiling rose bish bash bosh job

3stripe

I just removed an old light fitting to reveal this:



So, the new simple pendant that I've got (only going to hang a paper shade on it) is just bigger than the hole, which means it would sit a good few cms from the ceiling.

What's the correct way to fix it onto the rose?

The previous person just used 2 really long screws which would work I guess but seems a bit dodgy.

Also the ceiling is looking pretty messed up and I'd have to drill another couple of holes in it. Would that be ok?

PS. Yes I know nothing about DIY

bryanb

The previous person knew little about electrics, should have used a junction box!

3stripe

Everything in my flat is like that, was renovated on the cheap as I'm reminded everytime I look closely at something...

Should I get an eletricican/handyman to sort it out?

Got another 2 lights to change so there could be other crazy wiring ahead!

bryanb

It would be a good idea to have the electrics checked out if you are in any doubt. However many shortcuts/bodges could be out of sight, as this one was.

knightstyle

I can't see the earth connection. There should be at least three wires connecting to the ceiling rose. I would guess that if you look carefully you will see more wires up in the ceiling connected to a connector strip. These wires should all be connected in the ceiling rose.
Yes it is OK to replace the rose using long screws but make sure they don't damage the wires.

3stripe

From what I've seen there isn't an earth there, just the live and neutral. I'll need to power down and take a closer look though.

Also judging by this comment I just found by googling, my wiring is pre 1970s?!!

If there really is no earth wire at the ceiling rose (ie not snipped off), then this indicates that your wiring is pre 1970s, and the first thing to do is employ an electrician to ascertain how old the wiring is, and what condition the installation is in.

You may be better off saving the money from the light, and putting it towards getting the wiring sorted.

You must not put up a metal fitting is the circuit is not earthed, as this could be very dangerous.

3stripe

However it is a plastic pendent set I want to fit if that helps at all. The instructions just say "earth wire must be fitted if present".

Thanks for all the advice so far by the way

dcselec

try this
1/ Switch off the lighting circuits
2/ Remove a switch plate is there an earth wire there ? (this will give you idea of age)
3/ Try to look through the hole in the cieling you may find the existing cieling rose has been pushed up or the wires may be on connectors both are not acceptable
4/ if you find the cables are black rubber give up time for re-wire
5/If the cables are grey pvc they need to terminated in a joint box under the floor or better still if they are long enough directly into the new rose but expext to find 3 twin cables comming in
6/ If you not sure pay somebody to do it right as your pic it has not been done right
in the fist place may be usefull to have the electrics checked out
Hope this helps
Dave