2. Think about the activities that will be taking place in the room and how much general lighting and task lighting they will require.

3. Decide which lighting sources and techniques to use for the general light and where they should be placed for best effect. Note that a pale interior will reflect more light than a dark interior.

4. Make a note on the plan of the position of any feature lighting sources and what these sources will be, If using downlights to light an object on a wall, remember that the height of the ceiling will determine how far from the wall the fitting should be positioned.

5. Once you have established the various lighting types, it is useful to consider how they will be controlled. A good system will separately switch or dim each lighting element in a room.

Checklist of things to consider when undertaking a new lighting installation

1. Ensure that you have enough sockets in the room. Ideally, use 5 amp sockets for any lamps and allow 13 amp sockets for a TV, stereo, computer, vacuum cleaner, etc. There is no need to double up; just select the appropriate socket for the appropriate place. Trailing flexes may cause accidents, so if possible install floor sockets in the centre of the room for greater flexibility when placing lamps next to seats or tables.

2. The positioning of all light fittings is crucial. Scorch marks can result if fittings, particularly uplights, are located too near the ceiling or flammable materials. The fitting usually has a minimum safe distance written within its installation instructions, but if not you should consult the manufacturer.

3. Recessed uplights installed in floors can get very hot unless fibre optics are used (which are very expensive). The position of these uplights therefore needs to be considered carefully. Their use should be limited to feature lighting which can be switched off if children or pets will be in the room.

4. If you want to install recessed downlights, check there is a ceiling void and how deep this is. It is also important to know what the ceiling is made of, whether standard plasterboard or a mix of lathe and plaster, The fixing clips of any fixture will need to be checked to ensure they are compatible with the ceiling type.

5. Check if the ceiling void is full of insulation. If it is, clean it out around the position of the light to prevent overheating.

6. Check the local fire officer's requirements and establish whether a fire-box is required over any of the fittings.

7. Check the position of switches for ease of use. If you are changing the way a door swings, remember to change the position of the switch.

8. For exterior installations, ensure that all cables are mounted well away from any areas that may need digging or regular mowing. If cables are located in the centre of a garden, they should be a minimum of 450mm (18in) underground. Check that all equipment is weatherproof and suitable for exterior use,