Mark the bath, shower and fitting positions
Bathroom planning starts with the room layout, including the bath, shower outlet, enclosure and proposed light or mirror. The installer needs to understand the real distances and exposure rather than working from a product photograph.
The electrical zones around a bath or shower affect which equipment is suitable. The exact room layout and proposed fitting positions need checking against the current requirements before you order products.
Check the fitting’s IP rating and instructions
Check the fitting’s IP rating and instructions
An IP rating is one part of choosing a suitable fitting. Its position, supply arrangement and manufacturer’s installation requirements must also suit the bathroom. Check the full specification before ordering.
Send the full product link for a ceiling fitting, wall light or illuminated mirror. Include any separate driver, transformer or demister information provided. A visually similar alternative can have different installation needs.
Light the mirror as well as the room
Light the mirror as well as the room
A central ceiling light can leave shadows at a mirror. Think about shaving, makeup, cleaning and getting up at night, as well as the overall look. Explain which activities need clear task light and which need a softer setting.
Consider separate control where useful, but let equipment selection and control positions be coordinated with the room requirements. A light that looks good in a showroom may be uncomfortable if directly visible from the bath or reflected in a mirror.
Coordinate with the bathroom fitter before tiling
Coordinate with the bathroom fitter before tiling
Cable routes, mirror supplies and control positions are easier to plan before finished walls and ceilings restrict access. Share the room drawing, product schedule and dates for boarding, tiling and fitting.
Agree who supplies the products and who handles associated making good. In England, prescribed electrical changes in bath or shower special locations may be notifiable; discuss the applicable documentation and route before work starts.
What to share with your enquiry
- Bathroom plan with bath and shower positions
- Proposed lighting and mirror locations
- Full product links and accessories
- Switching or dimming preferences
- Boarding, tiling and fitting dates
Questions answered
Can I dim bathroom ceiling lights?
The lights, any drivers and the dimmer need to be compatible, and the control position must suit the bathroom requirements. Include dimming when planning the room so the products, wiring and controls can be selected together.
Ask Max about thisCan I use an ordinary pendant near the bath?
Do not select it from appearance alone. Provide the product and proposed position for assessment.
Ask Max about thisCan the mirror and ceiling lights work separately?
They can be planned as separate lighting groups where the products and installation allow. Decide whether you want mirror task light, general ceiling light or both available independently, and agree the controls before wiring and tiling.
Ask Max about thisDoes an IP65 rating mean a light can go anywhere in a bathroom?
No. An IP rating is one part of selection, alongside the exact position, supply arrangement and manufacturer's instructions. Share the room layout and complete fitting specification. Have the proposed location assessed before buying, especially for equipment close to a bath or shower.
Ask Max about thisDoes an illuminated bathroom mirror need planning before tiling?
Yes, include it in the electrical brief before surfaces close up. Share the exact model, position and any demister, driver or control requirements. Agree the cable route and accessible connections with the electrician and bathroom fitter so the finished mirror can operate as intended.
Ask Max about thisSources and further reading
Read the original guidance relevant to this question. Building Regulations and rental-law references here relate to England.