Hi there

I live in a rented cottage. My rather old living room light is flush to the ceiling and has a thick glass shade which completely encloses the bulb. The bulb is held horizontally rather than vertically. The light also has a dimmer switch.

The 100w bulb recently went, and when I tried to replace it the bulb holder broke on both sides where the bulb's bayonet fitting should go - I think the plastic had become brittle with age and build up of heat, and just shattered when I tried to put the new bulb in.

I think I could probably manage to replace the bulb holder myself, if I just knew where to get hold of one. Is it possible to buy just the plastic bayonet fitting for a horizontally held bulb? Or would it just be easier to get a more modern light fitting? Don't want to ask my landlady for help just at the moment, as it's coming up to rent review time!

Many thanks.

Auntiechrissie, September 2009

Problems problems - It is now illegal in the UK to import or sell 100W lamps! The law just came in a couple of weeks ago... Probably via Brussels...

It really is the landlord's responsibility to do maintenance - not changing light bulbs of course but replacing light fittings.

A new light fitting with two 60W holders or similar might be better but it won't be long before 60W lamps become illegal too.

If I were in your situation I would ask the landlord if it's OK to change the light fitting - if she said Yes then I would go to a specialist lighting shop and seek their advice - they usually have a better range and more helpful and knowledgeable staff than the DIY supermarket stores.

A potential issue, depending on the style of the landlord and your relationship, is liability - if you go ahead and do the work and there's a subsequent problem she may hold you liabale for any repairs - tread carefully.

Good luck...

Peccavi, September 2009