How much does it cost to relocate a light fixture?

Author: Jerrod Ritchie  |  Last update: Friday, February 27, 2026

If you're considering relocating a light fixture, the cost ranges from $200 to $800, with an average of $500. Relocation typically involves running new wiring, cutting into the ceiling or walls, and patching up afterward.

Do you need an electrician to move a light fixture?

While you can change a light fitting yourself if you have basic electrical knowledge, hiring an electrician is recommended for safety and compliance, especially for complex fixtures.

How much does it cost to move a light fitting?

Generally, the cost to change or replace a light fitting will be at the lower end, approximately £30 – 45. Usually, if it is just replacing a light fitting and the existing wiring is still in good working order, this is a straightforward job for an electrician that will take less than an hour.

Can a light fixture be moved?

When the situation calls for moving the fixture away from the switch, it may be necessary to use the existing light's electrical box as a junction box, add more wire to reach the new location, and then cover the box with a blank cover plate. Locate the switch that runs to the light fixture.

Is it difficult to move a ceiling light?

How difficult option (2) is depends on which direction you want to move the light, which direction the joists run, which direction the cable comes to the chandelier from, and how good you are at drywall repair. This job could be anywhere from trivial to very difficult.

How to feed cables through the ceiling | Quick Jobs - Light Fitting Relocation

How do I move a light fixture without a moving box?

To move a light fixture without moving the box, consider using swag hooks, which allow for repositioning the fixture along the ceiling.

What holds a light fixture to the ceiling?

Light fixtures often include their own mounting strap. The mounting strap is a strip of metal that screws into the junction box in the ceiling. If you're replacing your fixture, you can just re-use the existing strap.

Do I need a permit to move a light fixture?

If it involves the electrical wires of your home, you'll need a permit. If you're only swapping out a fixture, you don't need one -- but be careful! As a homeowner, you're able to do any electrical work in your home with a permit.

What to do with wires after removing a light fixture?

Capping electrical wires is the safe, code-approved way of dealing with terminated electrical cables. It's important to cap electrical wires for fire safety, to prevent electrical shocks, and to prevent short-circuiting or damage to the electrical system.

How much do electricians charge for changing a light fixture?

The average cost to install a light fixture typically falls within the range of $75–300, though this is often just the starting point. The total cost for lighting installation services can climb toward $1000+ depending on the complexity of the installation and your electrician's rates.

Do I need an electrician to install a light fitting?

While it is possible to learn how to replace a light fixture, we always recommend hiring a qualified electrician for this type of job. Should any damage be caused due to faulty installation, you could invalidate your home insurance policy and any electrical fitting warranties.

What does an electrician charge to move an outlet?

How much does it cost to move an existing outlet? If all you want is to move an existing outlet to another area of your wall, it will likely cost $25 to $300. However, many factors can impact your final cost, including existing wiring, the type of outlet, and more.

Can a handyman change a light fixture?

While some handymen can certainly do minor electrical work, such as replacing a light fixture or installing a light switch, more complicated tasks require the expertise of someone with years of experience and extensive knowledge of safety and electrical codes.

Do you leave light fittings when you move house?

Ideally, any fixtures and fittings that are permanently fixed to the structure of the building should remain in the house. This includes lighting, plugs, radiators and central heating, built-in wardrobes and more. If it's nailed down, mounted or bolted then leave it.

Is it easy to move a light fixture?

As long as you can get to the ceiling void from above without too much hassle, it's not complicated to move a light to wherever you really need it. Alternatively, you can boost your light levels by adding extra pendants which you operate either by the existing switch or with a new one.

Are light fixtures personal property?

A fixture is not personal property since fixtures come with the construction and are permanently glued to the building. Questions used in knowing fixtures are by confirming if the item is permanently mounted to the building. In contrast, personal property is movable things, and they are not attached to the property.

What happens if you put up a fence without a permit?

Building a fence without a permit – Violations and penalties

Usually the fine is $100 per day, for each day the fence exists without a permit. Also, if a fence is installed and does not comply with the codes of your city, the local government will require you to remove it.

Should I hire an electrician to change a light fixture?

Your Safety is Priority

That said, have a licensed electrician install that new light fixture for you! It's the fastest and simplest way to enjoy your new lights. It's also the safest method, which should be enough reason for you to hire a pro.

How much does a handyman charge to change a light bulb?

Most handymen charge between $50 and $80 per hour, making an average of $150 to $600 per job. Rates depend on their specialty, experience, level of education, and whether the handyman is insured, requires specialized equipment, or services rural locations.

What is a lighting fixture that can be easily moved and plugged into a wall socket?

Plug-In Fixtures. As opposed to lighting fixtures that require electrical wiring, plug-in fixtures are easily connected to an electrical outlet. Most table lamps, floor lamps, torchieres, desk lamps, and nightlights are plugged in rather than hard wired.

What is the housing of a light fixture?

The housing is the portion of the fixture installed above the ceiling. It contains all of the electrical parts, including the bulb socket. Remodel Housings are designed to work with your existing ceiling and therefore do not require a mounting frame.

Previous article
Can a toilet leak under the floor from the bottom?
Next article
Why is the water not going up in my shower?