How much does a lamp repair cost?

Guide to Domestic Light Rewire and Repair
4 November 2020 by
How much does a lamp repair cost?
​Lampfix, Deryck Smith



  • Cost examples and break down
  • Repairing the light yourself
  • Lampfix repair lead time
  • Lamp repair drop off procedure
  • Is it worth it?
 
 



Do you have a light fitting that needs repairing?  


With all the options and ‘what ifs’ it's unlikely you can cost the job in one fell swoop.  But a good estimate is actually what you need, isn't it?

Along with others here at Lampfix, I have restored hundreds of light fittings. Easy ones, hard ones and impossible ones. Pendants, chandeliers, table lamps, floor lamps, candelabras and wall lights. Because of my experience, I know the pitfalls and the workarounds. I can give you the accurate info you need.

Reading this article will give you control and enable you to make an informed decision.  



Cost examples and break down


There are two main things to consider that drive cost: parts and labour.

1. Parts - the bits needed to repair.

E.G. If the fitting only has one lampholder, the cost will stay low. More lampholders drive the cost up.

2. Labour - the time spent repairing.

E.G. If the lamp has extra functions, small passages or odd threads, the repair time will increase. If it has easy components and a design that needs less attention, the time needed will remain low.


Here are some ballpark figures based on repairs seen over some time. Please note this only applies to basic rewire repairs, not crystal replacement or major metalwork repairs.

  • Table lamps £45-£55
  • Floor lamps £55-£65 
  • Single Lamp Wall lights  £35-£45  
  • Small to Medium size Chandeliers  £140-£350  
  • Large Chandeliers £500+


Why do they cost this much?




Repairing the light yourself


Now you have an idea of the cost of getting Lampfix to repair a light fitting.  How about removing the labour element and buying the bits and doing the job yourself?  Here are some key steps to take to help you decide this.


1. Find out why the light is not working


If you are not sure why your lamp doesn't work, start by taking the following steps.


1. Disconnect the light fitting from the electrical supply.

2. Clean the contacts in the lamp holder with a rag

3. Check the fuse in the plug if it has one.

If none of these work, it needs new parts eg lampholder, cable etc.

Many people are happy they can change parts like lampholders themselves. Each day we upload more videos on how to use each of our component products.  These videos will help you to decide if you can repair it.

On top of that, you can send questions, photos and sketches of your light and we can respond with advice.  This leads us on to step 2.


2. Get the right bits


What are the main parts I need to decide whether to replace?

The main items include:


  • Lampholders sit where the light source is on the fitting. This is usually at the top of a table lamp and is where the light bulb sits. If it is old or brittle, upgrade it. It is easier and safer to fit new parts than reuse old ones. You can recycle old metal parts.
  •    
  • The cable can run inside or outside the fitting. If inside, the cable does not have to be double insulated. If outside, it must be double insulated. If the light fitting is metal it needs earthing, so the main supply cable must be 3 core. Replace damaged or brittle cable.         
  • Switch - this could be on the lampholder, in the cable, or elsewhere on the lamp. If brittle, it is safer to change it or remove it altogether if you can use a switched lampholder instead.              
  • Plug - replace if the pins are not insulated (2 of the pins should be partly sleeved). Otherwise, you can keep it, unless you want a new plug.  Remember it should have a working 3A fuse. 


What other parts might I need?


  • Earth tags  
  • Locknuts 
  • All thread 
  • Grommets  
  • Cordgrips 



What tools might I need?

You never quite know what tools you will end up using on lamp repairs.

Here are some of the basic tools you’ll need to hand:


  • Screwdrivers
  • Wire strippers
  • Wire cutters
  • Pliers
  •  


We sometimes use other tools when we need to change a light fitting to repair it:


  • Pillar drill - for creating or widening holes in metal