What is this?
Outdoor lights in the UK are exposed to weather, temperature extremes, and moisture, all of which cause them to fail more frequently than indoor lights. An outside light that has stopped working could have a blown bulb, corroded connections inside the fitting, a tripped circuit, or water ingress into the light fitting or junction box. If the light is controlled by a sensor (PIR), the sensor module may have failed rather than the light itself.
Common causes
- Blown bulb or failed LED module inside the fitting
- Water ingress into the light fitting causing corrosion or a short
- Corroded or loose connections at the fitting or junction box
- Failed PIR sensor on a motion-activated light
- Tripped MCB or RCD at the consumer unit
Is it dangerous?
An outside light not working is low risk in itself. However, if water has entered the fitting, this could cause an earth fault on the outdoor circuit. If the RCD for the outdoor circuit keeps tripping, do not keep resetting it — the fault needs professional repair.
Can I fix it myself?
Check the consumer unit for a tripped MCB or RCD. Try replacing the bulb — outdoor bulbs fail more often due to temperature changes and moisture. If the light has a PIR sensor, check if it has an override setting (usually by switching off and on quickly). Check the fitting for any visible water inside or corroded contacts. If the fitting is sealed and you cannot access the bulb easily, call an electrician.
When to call an electrician
Call an electrician if replacing the bulb does not work, if there is water inside the fitting, if the outdoor circuit keeps tripping, or if the light is on a circuit you cannot identify. Also call if you need the light fitting replaced with a new one, as outdoor electrical work should comply with IP rating requirements.
What will an electrician do?
Inspect the light fitting for water damage, corrosion, and seal integrity
Test the circuit and connections at the fitting and junction box
Replace the fitting if it is damaged or no longer weatherproof
Replace or test the PIR sensor if the light is motion-activated
Ensure the installation meets IP rating requirements for its location
Typical cost
£60 – £160
A simple bulb or fitting replacement is at the lower end. If the cable or junction box needs replacing due to water damage, costs will increase.
