Describe the function before selecting the system
You might want lighting controlled from one place, a scheduled setting or different lighting arrangements for different activities. Write down the behaviour you want in ordinary language rather than starting with a list of products.
For example, a lighting brief could request separate control of a reading light and the main room lighting. It could also identify a preferred schedule. These describe what you want, without claiming that a particular product provides it.
Explain who will use the controls and whether ordinary wall-switch operation is part of your request. Mention any preferences that would make the arrangement easier for you to use.
Identify proposed electrical work
State whether the enquiry includes changes to fixed switches, fittings or wiring. Electrical work requires suitable competence. The Health and Safety Executive, the workplace safety regulator, explains this requirement in its electrical work FAQs (hse.gov.uk).
List the rooms involved, existing controls you know about and products already selected. Leave wiring details unknown where you don’t have them. Don’t open switches or fittings to obtain information for an enquiry.
If lighting is the main project, our lighting installation information sets out the details to include about fittings, positions and proposed controls.
Keep aims separate from agreed features
If your interest concerns energy use, convenience or a security-related function, describe that as the reason for your project. Include any selected product names and the features you want to discuss.
Keep unanswered questions visible in the brief. You can ask what the written proposal includes without treating an advertised feature as an agreed part of the work.
Keep the enquiry clear and private
Include the intended functions and any refurbishment dates already known. Mention an existing electrical concern separately from the planned changes, so your message records both requests.
Never send passwords, one-time codes, account details or private camera footage through the general form. A short description of the project is enough to begin the discussion with Manchester Electricians.