Outside security lights are a great option to help you make your property more secure. They can be PIR (Passive Infrared) sensor, motion-activated or set on a timer to keep your property protected in the way you want them to. But how much does it cost to install security lights?

What is a security light?

A security light is a light that's normally installed to deter and detect any unwanted visitors to your property. They generally have added features compared to normal outdoor lights. For example, motion sensor lights turn on when they detect any movement near your property to alert you to intrusions, while other security lights can be programmed to come on at set times. There are also light-sensitive security lights that can come on when it gets dark, which is handy if you don't want to update your settings when the nights draw in and out!

How much does it cost to install a security light in the UK?

How much it costs to install a security light in the UK depends on the type of light you want, where you are having the lights installed and your location in the country. HaMuch has a large database of hourly rates and job costs for installing security lights up and down the country, but these are the average prices: 

Type of security light	Average cost
Floodlights	£130
Motion sensors	£120
Landscape lights	£590
Spotlights	£290

What factors affect the cost of installing outdoor security lighting?

There are a few factors that affect the cost of installing outdoor security lighting:

1. Type of lights - Floodlights tend to be more expensive than motion sensor lights, and the quality of the fixture will increase the cost.
2. Number of lights - The more lights you have, the longer they will take to install, so this will increase the cost. 
3. Where you want your security lights installed - If you want security lights installed away from your main property, perhaps on an outhouse or shed, you’ll need cabling - so the further away it is, the more expensive it will be.
4. Making good - While some companies will include this in their quote, you may need to allow extra for repairing any chases or holes in walls and ceilings.
5. Your location - Installation costs in London and the South East are usually more than in other parts of the country, so allow extra budget if you live in this area.

Top types of security light

Floodlights

Floodlights are a popular choice for homeowners looking for security lighting. Supply costs for floodlights range between £4-£80 per light, and will depend on the size and style of the floodlight.

This type of security light is very safe as they are weatherproof, so they are less at risk of causing a fire. They are also very long-lasting when fitted with LED bulbs. However, if your property's grounds are large, floodlights might not be right for you. This is because most floodlights don't exceed 200 watts so the light won't reach very far.

PIR sensors and motion sensors

PIR sensors and motion sensor security lights are another popular choice in the UK. They only turn on when they detect movement around your home, so they only use electricity when it's needed. They'll cost around £10-£50 each plus installation costs.

However, the nature of these lights makes them hard to control, so they might come on when a neighbour walks by or when it's windy. They also don't stay on for very long, so aren't suitable for use as garden lighting.

Do you need an electrician to fit a security light?

We'd advise that you engage an electrician to fit a security light. That way you will know that they are installed correctly and are fit for purpose. You may get a quote from a ‘security specialist’, and they will almost certainly be a qualified electrician too.

What happens when I have security lights installed?

It can be useful to know what's involved in a security light install so you can prepare for the work to be done. Every security light installation will be different, but here's a general run down of what your electrician will do:

1. First, your electrician will switch your electricity supply off at your consumer unit to ensure that the work can be completed safely.
2. Then, they will drill holes where you want your lights to be installed, before lining them with plastic and feeding cables through the holes.
3. Next, the electrician will connect the cable cores to the right terminals, and secure the cables with electrical tape.
4. Now that the cables are in place, the contractor will fit the light and add sealant to secure it.
5. After that, they will install a light switch in your home.
6. To finish, the electrician will test the security light to make sure that it's working properly and it's safe.

Can I install security lights myself?

If you're on a tight budget but still want to secure your home, you might want to install security lights yourself. While this can be fine if you have some knowledge of electrics, it can be incredibly dangerous if you don't know what you're doing.

Remember that you could give yourself or your family an electric shock (which could be fatal) if you don't install the light correctly, and it could be a fire hazard. If you're not very confident, it's much better to leave it to the professionals.

If you're good at DIY, you could potentially save some money by preparing the area for the electrician. You could remove any previous lights or obstructions and drill the holes ready for installation, so the electrician doesn't have to spend as much time at your property.

Overall, we'd recommend getting a professional to install your outdoor security lights. Use HaMuch to get a range of quotes from registered electricians in your local area to ensure you get the best price.

Estimates for common electrician jobs;

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