What a lighting audit is
A professional lighting audit is a structured review of the lighting systems across a property. It records existing fixtures and controls, identifies failed or poorly performing areas and connects those observations to safety, maintenance, energy and capital-planning decisions.
For co-operative housing, strata and managed properties, the audit should give the people approving the work a clear picture of present conditions rather than a collection of isolated service requests.
Signs an audit may be worthwhile
A single failed lamp usually needs a service call, not a property-wide study. An audit becomes more useful when problems repeat across buildings or exterior areas, when residents report dark zones, or when the organization is preparing a budget or request for proposals.
- Recurring lamp, ballast, driver or fixture failures
- Dark paths, stairs, entrances, parkades or parking areas
- Mixed fixture types and inconsistent colour or brightness
- Outdated timers, photocells, sensors or lighting controls
- High maintenance effort or difficult fixture access
- A planned capital project, energy review or rebate application
What the field review should document
Useful records can include fixture quantities and types, visible condition, operating schedules, control zones, representative light levels, wiring concerns and the practical access needed to complete repairs.
Site plans, marked-up photographs and clear priority categories make the report easier to use. The level of measurement and design detail should match the decision the client needs to make.
Practical takeaway: Define the intended outcome before the site visit: maintenance plan, budget estimate, phased conversion, tender-ready scope or a deeper engineered design.
From observations to a workable plan
The report should explain what can be repaired, what should be replaced and which areas deserve attention first. Priority areas often include entrances, pedestrian routes, stairs, ramps, turns, service spaces and locations associated with repeated concerns.
Where a full conversion is not practical, a phased plan can address the highest-value areas first while keeping later work compatible with the overall direction.
Energy and incentive considerations
LED equipment and better controls can reduce maintenance and energy use, but product selection still needs to suit the environment, existing circuits, mounting conditions and required light distribution.
BC Hydro business programs may support eligible equipment or projects. Programs and requirements change, so confirm the current pathway and any pre-approval requirements before ordering equipment or starting work.
A turnkey path from audit to completion
PTX can document existing conditions, prepare practical repair or upgrade options, coordinate the electrical installation and assist with related access or finish repairs. Engineering specialists can be included when the project requires their design or professional assurance.
That continuity helps the client move from a report to a completed project without losing the logic developed during the field review.
Frequently asked questions
Questions property decision-makers ask
Is a lighting audit only for large commercial buildings?
No. It can be useful for strata, co-operative housing, parkades, exterior common areas and other managed properties where lighting decisions affect many spaces or users.
Does an audit automatically mean every fixture should be replaced?
No. A good audit distinguishes targeted repairs, control improvements, phased work and full replacement so the client can choose an appropriate path.
Can the report support budgeting or an RFP?
Yes, if that outcome is defined in advance. The scope and level of detail should be designed around the client's approval, budgeting or procurement process.
Are lighting rebates guaranteed?
No. Eligibility depends on the customer, equipment, project and current program requirements. Confirm the applicable program before purchasing or starting work.
Current authoritative resources
Requirements and programs can change. Confirm current information directly: