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Electrical

bathroom recessed downlights next to joist?

Anonymous user 03/03/2024 - 3.03 PM

We live in a ground-floor flat with another flat above us. We have downlights in the bathroom x6, however they are shoddy and we have asked an electrician to replace them with new ones (that are also fire-rated - the crappy ones that were in when we moved in were not). He is happy to do this, however, says that two of them are too close to a joist and he can't replace them, so will have to cut more holes, move lights to a different position etc. Just wanted to ask - is this really necessary?

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3 Answers

Electrical Safety Services

Rating: 5 out of 5
Dereham
Yes absolutely necessary as there should be a minimum of 50mm clearance from the back of the fire rated spotlight enclosure to any combustible materials such as wooden joists. If spotlights are not installed properly (i.e. as per the building regulations) then if a fire were to occur, your insurance may not pay up!
Answered29 November 2013
2

D&C Electrical

Rating: 5 out of 5
Walsall
Hi, Standard manufacturers instructions on fire rated downlights will say 50mm gap between joists and fittings so I would say that he is doing the right thing and not fobbing you off to get more money. Just because the lights are fire rated doesn't mean that they can be fitted anywhere the fire rating maintains the fire integrity of the ceilings that the lights are in. Hope this helps Chris D&C Electrical
Answered30 November 2013
2

Emelec Electrical Services

Rating: 5 out of 5
Wirral
Depends if the recessed light fitting can be mounted on or near to combustible materials this will be clearly identified in the instructions. As far as I'm aware there is no building regulation prohibiting this (Don't quote me on this) In my opinion I would also install LED lamps to reduce the heat buildup. But the electrician is right to question this, at least he's thinking!
Answered30 November 2013
2