Cost of replacing light switches?

[Canteverdecide]

How much would it cost to replace light switches in a 2 bed property? Currently have some very ancient ones and would like to get some nicer, brassy looking ones. What is the cost of these plus installation, as I assume we'd need an electrician?

They cost about £10 at Screwfix/Wickes, and no you really don't need an electrician. It's a very easy job. You just need to be able to use a screwdriver.

Switch off the mains electricity, unscrew old one, unscrew the wires, then screw the wires into the new switch and screw the switch to the wall.

Switches in stairwells or other places where two or more switches control the same lights are more complex, however.

Not a tricky job, but if you’re fitting metal ones, then remember the metal part of the switch needs to be earthed. If your wiring is as ancient as your switches apparently are, then the lighting circuit may not have the earth core (CPC). If this is the case, then leave the existing ones on or get new plastic switches, and get an electrician in.

Take a photo of the back of the old faceplate before you unscrew the wires if you are worried about mixing them up.

Yes very easy diy job, so long as you use your common sense and make sure power is turned off at the fuse box first. Then try turning on the light to make sure power is definitely off, before you start unscrewing.

There are probably videos on YouTube showing how to do it.

Take note of this comment, an unearthed metal switch could kill you.

When you say 'very ancient', it makes me think the electrics would be old, so that's worth checking them out.

Just turn off the power from the main breaker to avoid any untoward incidents, then follow along this video