Downlights in London Homes: Fire Rated Fittings and What an EICR Checks

Downlights look clean and modern, and they are in almost every refurbished London flat. But every downlight is a hole cut in the ceiling, and that hole can affect fire safety, sound and heat between floors. This guide explains when fire rated fittings are needed, what an EICR looks at, and the problems we see most.

Why fire rated downlights exist

Ceilings between floors, and between a flat and the one above or below, are often designed to hold back fire for a set time. Cutting holes for ordinary downlights weakens that barrier. Fire rated downlights have a built in barrier, often an intumescent seal that swells in heat, to help restore the ceiling's fire resistance. Building Regulations expect the fire resistance of separating floors and ceilings to be kept, so in flats, loft conversions and below occupied rooms, fire rated fittings are the normal choice.

Other things to get right

• Insulation. Some fittings cannot be covered by loft insulation, as they can overheat. Check the fitting is rated for being covered or use a suitable cover.
• Bathrooms. Downlights over a bath or shower need the correct IP rating for the zone. Our guide to bathroom electrics and zones covers this.
• Connections. Each fitting should be connected in a proper enclosure or connector block, not left as bare twisted joints above the ceiling.
• Drivers. LED drivers should be secured and kept away from insulation where the maker says so.

What an EICR finds

• Old halogen downlights that have scorched the ceiling or the cable.
• Non fire rated fittings in the ceiling between two flats.
• Bathroom downlights with no IP rating over the bath.
• Lighting circuits with no RCD protection after a refurbishment.
• Loose joints and cables resting on hot fittings.

Swapping old halogens for LED

Changing to LED fittings cuts heat and running costs, and it is a good time to switch to fire rated fittings where they are needed. On a lighting circuit with no earth, which is common in older London homes, metal fittings should not be fitted until the circuit is put right.

Book a lighting upgrade or EICR

Energy North Ltd fits LED and fire rated downlights and carries out EICR inspections across North, East and West London. Our City & Guilds certified electricians can usually attend within 48 hours, and certificates are emailed the same day. If you have a drive, see our EV charger installation page too.