Not all of us have heard of the word ‘lighting contractor’ and think that it might not be a real profession. But guess what? It is a legitimate profession. There are companies focusing on providing lighting services—not the type of selling light bulbs like in hardware stores—whereas the main focus was lighting installation whether for indoor or outdoor lighting.
Lighting Contractor vs. Electrician
When people hear the word lighting contractor, someone would initially assume that it is the same as being an electrician. But it is not! There is a difference between the two. While others have the same function, a lighting contractor can be determined as a master electrician focusing on lighting. That is their main cup of tea.
A lighting contractor can give you comprehensive details about the installation and maintenance of lighting equipment. They are certified to perform heavier and more detailed jobs, especially when installing outdoor lighting. Lighting contractors have broader expertise on the right brand and can suggest designs to use that could withstand outdoor elements to make the outdoor lighting functioning according to its purpose to make it last longer.
When Do You Need To Hire A Lighting Contractor?
Technically, you should hire a lighting contractor when you want to have lighting for outdoors like landscape, architectural, and any multi-functional lighting system design that you want for your home or property. Ideally, it’s best to hire a lighting contractor (or a company) for outdoor lighting works because they would not just install the lights for you but would be able to sit down and have a consultation with them on what best design, materials, and maintenance needed before they start working.
But since you’re [probably] new with the idea of a lighting contractor, you might be wondering what to do when hiring them. In this blog, we will share with you an efficient checklist when hiring lighting contractors.
An Efficient Lighting Contractor Checklist
In this checklist, the idea is to guide you on what criteria you should focus on before selecting to do the lighting work for you.
Do A Good Search
Gather a list and data of lighting contractors that you could find—whether through the traditional searching on ads, searching online, or by visiting the company. List down their offer, price offer of their services, and of course their location.
When you’re selecting the right contractor to hire, you should check with them if they would understand your primary objective about your lighting concerns. However, be sure to be open-minded if they would suggest something else or an alternative if your idea for the design might not be something feasible.
Ultimately, the price of the service they offer. It’s best if you should not close the door from the pricey range offered. You should explore and know why the price is that way which maybe you can pay through installment.
Remember that the least expensive one is not always the best. There are instances that the price range may be higher than you expect but you would eventually benefit from it as you can enjoy the lighting work for a long time.
Hire A Licensed Contractor
This is very important because this would give you peace of mind that the professional you hired to do the lighting work for you have the right credentials. Licensed contractors always have the right answers, could offer suggestions or alternatives, and ensure that you can call them back in case something could go wrong. You’ll be able to get in touch with them easily.
If there’s a lighting contractor in your area (or near to your location), grab the chance because it is an advantage for you.You can visit their facilities or offices to discuss the project.
It’s not advisable to hire contractors who go door-to-door. For the record, it doesn’t mean that they are not trustworthy, but it is always best to hire someone with an office as there’s always an address you can go to.
Furthermore, you can check-in with past clients who hired particular licensed contractors. And if the licensed contractor is someone new, his company or colleagues in the same field could vouch for him.
Ask About Their Vendors
It’s not wrong to ask about the vendors of the lighting contractor. You should actually know about it because the lighting materials are the ones that will be used for the project (to your house/property). The lighting contractors would share these details to you because they don’t just do the work but also promote security and safety not just for their sake but for yours also.
You can also do research about the vendors and read their background and how durable their products are. Well, because their products are the ones that will be used on your property and you want to ensure that these products are durable and made to last.
Ask How Insurance or Warranty Works
This is another important detail for you to know because in case there’s a problem or issue with the lighting installed, you know how to file a warranty claim. You should also know if what happened would be covered by the insurance given by the company.
Ask The Right Questions
It’s your right to know the details before you hire a contractor to do the project. It is important that you ask for enough details so you won’t be caught off guard in the middle of the duration of the work.
Take Your Time Before Making A Decision
Sometimes, big projects like landscape or architectural lighting are something you get excited about. It is not wrong. However, you should not rush your decision when hiring a contractor.
You should do thorough research, ensure that you have the budget, go over the project details, and understand that the project should not be rushed. Furthermore, take your time to read thoroughly the details of the contract before signing it.
About Resort Lighting, Inc.
Resort Lighting, Inc. offers outdoor lighting services and maintenance for houses. With over 40 years of experience, Resort Lighting is the standard for Landscape, Architectural & Multi-Function Lighting System Design. We do not look to replace the current beauty of your home, only to compliment the design.
