Is a minor works certificate needed to change a spotlight to a pendant?
My wife has just bought a pendant light to go above the dining table. There is currently a spot light there though. Do I need a minor works certificate to have it fixed?
Firstly, I am sure the pendant is going to look fantastic, particularly over the dining table. As there is already a spotlight where you are going to put the pendant, you can simply connect it to the already existing feed. This means that you don’t need a minor works certificate as it is just switching accessory for accessory.
Should you have needed to add an additional outlet to the existing ring, which in your case you don’t, then you would have needed to obtain a minor works certificate. In any case, we would always advise that you employ a certified electrician to carry out the work. They will then be able to advise you further on your particular project.
A little bit of additional advice, is be careful not to hang your pendant too low. It is important that it doesn’t obstruct your view whilst sitting down. Another reason not to hang it too low, is that there is more of a possibility of bashing your head on the light when getting up from the table. Spend a little time positioning the pendant too. It will make a huge difference to the look if it is absolutely central to the table. A laser measure or beam can help to to perfectly line up the light with the table.
Thank you for getting in touch with us, and please do feel free to ask us any more electrical questions in the future. It can sometimes be a touchy subject and difficult to understand from various articles floating around online. Good luck with the switch, it will make a big difference to the room.