Lighting and power additions for your home
The room and how you use it guide the choice of position and controls. Existing wiring, circuit capacity and roof or wall access can affect the installation. Check these before treating a product price as the full job cost.
Choose the position and controls
- Fixture or power-point position
- Wall, ceiling and roof access
- Switching, controls and circuit capacity
A ceiling fan for a bedroom
A fan addition may also need a switch or control change. If roof access is limited, ask how that affects the work and whether the quote includes the fan, wiring and controls.
Choose the fitting and controls together
A ceiling fan needs a suitable support as well as wiring. A light fitting’s existing mounting point may not be enough. Decide whether the fan needs a light, wall switch or remote. For lights, consider dimming compatibility and the intended room use. Give the electrician the product details so unsuitable combinations can be identified before installation.
New power points may need more than an extra outlet
The electrician needs to consider what the point will supply and the circuit already serving the room. A new fixed appliance may require its own circuit. Roof and wall access, cable routes and surface finish affect the work. State whether you want concealed wiring or whether surface-mounted work is acceptable; do not assume both will cost the same.
Installation quote details worth checking
Confirm who buys the fittings and whether switches, supports, wiring changes and testing are included. Ask who repairs any wall or ceiling openings and what happens if the existing wiring cannot be used. An owner-supplied product can have separate product and installation warranties. Keep its model details and purchase receipt.
For official safety and licence guidance, visit the Queensland Electrical Safety Office.