Should outdoor lighting be installed by an electrician?

Any mains-powered outdoor lighting installation should be carried out by a qualified, NICEIC-registered electrician to ensure safety and compliance with UK electrical regulations for outdoor and wet-location wiring.

Is low-voltage garden lighting safer to install myself?

Low-voltage systems (typically 12V, run from a transformer) are generally safer for competent DIY installation than mains-voltage lighting, though the transformer connection itself should still be wired correctly and protected from the elements.

What is the difference between path lighting and security lighting?

Path lighting is typically low-level and decorative, guiding movement around a garden. Security lighting is usually brighter and motion-activated, intended to deter intruders and illuminate access points.

Can smart lighting be added to an existing garden lighting system?

In many cases yes — smart bulbs, plugs or control modules can be retrofitted to existing circuits, though compatibility depends on the existing wiring and fittings. An electrician can advise on the best approach.

lightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlightlight

light

Homeowner Hub › Garden & Outdoor Living › Outdoor Lighting

Outdoor Lighting

Create safer, more attractive outdoor spaces with professionally installed lighting. Includes path lights, security lighting, garden feature lighting, smart lighting and low-voltage systems.

Last reviewed: August 2026 · Reviewed by: The TopTenTrades Editorial Team

Quick Answer

1.Plan lighting around how the garden is used after dark — paths, seating, security
2.Use low-voltage systems for most decorative garden lighting
3.Always use a qualified electrician for mains-powered outdoor installations
4.Add motion-activated lighting to key access points for security
5.Consider smart controls if you want scheduling or remote control

Best time: Any time
Typical frequency: One-off
DIY friendly: No
Professional recommended: Yes
Typical cost: £300–£2,000+
Recommended trade: Electrician

Planning Outdoor Lighting

Good outdoor lighting improves safety, security and how much you use your garden after dark. Getting the mix of path, security and feature lighting right makes a big difference to both look and function.

•Path lights — low-level lighting to guide movement safely around the garden
•Security lighting — motion-activated lighting for entrances, driveways and dark corners
•Garden feature lighting — highlighting trees, planting or architectural features
•Smart lighting — scheduling, remote control and integration with other smart home systems
•Low-voltage systems — a safer, flexible option for most decorative garden lighting

Outdoor Lighting: Typical Costs

Service	Typical Cost (UK)
Basic path lighting (few points)	£300–£600
Security lighting	£150–£400 per fitting
Full garden lighting scheme	£1,000–£2,000+
Smart lighting upgrade	£200–£800

Costs depend on the number of fittings, cabling distance and whether new circuits are required.

Keeping Outdoor Lighting Working Well

•Clean fittings periodically to keep light output consistent
•Check cables and connections after severe weather
•Replace bulbs or LED units promptly rather than leaving fittings dark
•Trim back planting that grows over fittings and blocks light

Ready to plan your outdoor lighting?

Find local electricians who can help with:

Path lighting
Security lighting
Feature lighting
Smart lighting installation

Find Local Electricians

Related Garden & Outdoor Guides

Decking Care Garden Design Garden Rooms

Frequently Asked Questions

Need Help With Outdoor Lighting?

Connect with trusted local tradespeople verified for insurance, qualifications and genuine reviews.

Find Local Electricians Back to Garden & Outdoor Living

Request multiple quotes · Compare trusted professionals