Is there a non-invasive way to test if a ceiling can take recessed spotlighting?

the ceiling in our lounge has no lights and we'd like to install recessed spotlighting, but we do not have access to a loft because we're in flats. so we'd need to bore holes into the ceiling, but we would not want to do that if the depth of the plaster was insufficient.

is there any easy non-invasive way to test this? or should we put a drill plot hole in somewhere discreet somehow?

A lot depends on how deep the lights will go. I assume these are shallow lights. If you can't get to a crawl space, where will you run the wires? You can run wires and put a painted cover over them, depending on your tastes. Ceiling material typically will only be less than a half inch thick. There will be dead space between you and the loft above you. I suggest using a light strip with halogens that can be screwed into the cieling joists (support 2x4). These fixtures are typically light weight and attractive. A 2.5 inch drywall screw usually comes supplied and will work for ceiling attachments. Keep halogens a safe distance from a wall, as they can get very hot..

first of all is this your place or a rented place? If rented make sure you have permission. Either way check local codes to make sure you can legally do this. Some places let home owners do this type of thing, some places won't. Assuming that part works out in your favor, you have 2 options.

Recessed or non recessed. the question is what will your ceiling take.
If non recessed is acceptable to you & if your ceiling is not deep enough for the other kind, go ahead and drill a hole where you want the light. That will tell you what kind you are going to buy. If non recessed is not acceptable to you, drill the hole in a discreet corner by the trim. USE a REALLY thin drill bit and you probably won't be able to notice if from the floor level.
Brackets that hang on to the studs in your ceiling are available at hardware or lighting stores for the non recessed type.

While your up in the ceiling take a piece of firm but bendable wire and explore how much area you have between ceiling studs to learn how long your ceiling bracket has to be if you need to go that route. it will save a trip to the store.




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.I would look into track lighting, easy to install,basically attractive,less invasive,and same effect. If not drill a small hole and probe with a wire coat hanger (straightened out)this should give you the depth. I assume you know how to run the wiring?