If you’ve spotted a damp bathroom or a stale kitchen, the first thought is often to add an extractor fan. But who should do the work? Many homeowners assume any tradesperson can bolt a fan on the wall, yet the truth is a bit more nuanced. Below we break down when a plumber can handle the job, when you really need an electrician, and how to keep the install safe and legal.
A plumber is great at anything that involves water pipes, drainage, and basic ventilation that ties into the waste system. If the fan you’re installing simply needs a vent to the outside and the pipework is already in place, a plumber can usually take care of it. They’ll:
Most UK building codes allow a plumber to fit a fan that runs on mains electricity as long as the wiring is already present and the fan plugs into a standard socket. In that case, the plumber just mounts the unit and connects it to the existing socket – no new wiring needed.
If the fan requires new wiring, a dedicated circuit, or you want a timer/ humidity sensor, you need a qualified electrician. Electricity work is covered by Part P of the Building Regulations, which means only a registered electrician can legally add or modify circuits. An electrician will:
Trying to DIY the wiring can lead to blown fuses, fire risk, or an insurance claim being denied. Even if you feel comfortable with tools, the safe route is to call a pro for any new electrical work.
Another scenario that calls for a specialist is a fan that needs to be hard‑wired into a bathroom’s lighting circuit. Bathroom zones have strict rules about where live parts can go. An electrician will know the difference between a Zone 2 light switch and a Zone 1 fan, keeping you on the right side of the law.
So, in short: if the fan just plugs in and the vent already exists, a plumber can mount it. If you need new wiring, a new vent, or you’re working in a wet zone, call an electrician.
Want to save a few pounds? Ask the plumber to check the existing vent first – sometimes the duct is already there but blocked by insulation. A quick clean‑out can be all you need. If you do need new wiring, getting a few quotes from electricians will give you a clear idea of cost – typically £80‑£120 for a simple run.
Remember to ask anyone you hire for their Gas Safe or Part P registration, depending on the work. A reputable pro will provide a written quote and a receipt, which helps if you later need to claim warranty work.
Bottom line: you don’t always need an electrician, but you do need the right tradesperson for the job. Knowing the difference saves you time, money, and potential headaches down the line.
Wondering if plumbers can fit extractor fans? Get answers, advice, and practical tips for home ventilation projects—all you need to know in one place.