Before You Buy: What to Consider When Comparing Lighting Companies

Lana
Jun 10
4 min read

Adding permanent outdoor lighting to your home or landscape is a smart way to enhance curb appeal, improve safety, & extend your living space. But before you invest in a lighting system, choosing the right company is essential. With so many providers offering a range of products & services, knowing what to look for can save you money, stress, & potential headaches down the road. Here’s a deep dive into the most important factors to consider when comparing lighting companies.

1. Experience & Specialization

Just like you wouldn’t hire a general handyman to wire your whole home, you shouldn’t hire a company unfamiliar with permanent lighting systems. Look for providers that specialize in architectural or landscape lighting, rather than those who only offer seasonal or temporary setups (like holiday lights).

Ask:

How many years have you been in the lighting industry?
Do you specialize in residential, commercial, or both?
What types of lighting systems do you install (e.g., soffit lighting, landscape spotlights, pathway lighting)?

Pro Tip: Companies with niche experience are more likely to deliver tailored solutions & understand the challenges of lighting different home styles & property layouts.

2. Quality of Products

Not all lighting systems are built to last. Outdoor lighting, in particular, needs to withstand extreme temperatures, moisture, UV exposure, & occasional impact. Make sure the company uses commercial-grade, weatherproof materials, preferably with LED technology.

Look for:

IP65 or higher water-resistant ratings for fixtures
Low-voltage systems for safety & efficiency
UV-resistant housing to prevent fading or cracking
Long-lasting LEDs rated for 50,000+ hours

Additionally, ask whether the lights are programmable, dimmable, or color-changeable. Modern systems often include Wi-Fi or Bluetooth control, allowing you to adjust settings from your smartphone.

3. Installation Standards

Installation quality affects not only how your lights look, but also how long they last. Poor installation can lead to wire damage, system failure, or safety hazards. Questions to ask:

Are your installers licensed & insured?
How are the wires concealed or protected?
Will you need to drill into my roofline or exterior siding?
Do you offer both above-ground & in-ground installations?

Reputable companies will follow local electrical codes, offer clear timelines, & leave your property clean & undamaged. Ask if they provide custom-cut lighting tracks for a seamless, professional look.

4. Custom Design & Consultation

Your home is unique, & your lighting should be too. Look for companies that offer personalized design consultations, using photos or site visits to craft a layout that matches your style & goals.

Elements they should consider:

Architectural features (e.g., peaks, columns, trim)
Landscaping elements (trees, walkways, garden beds)
Intended uses (ambience, security, holiday themes, etc.)
HOA or municipal lighting regulations

Bonus: Some advanced companies use augmented reality (AR) or design software to show you what your home will look like before installation.

5. Customer Service & Reputation

The customer experience doesn't end after installation. You want a lighting company that provides ongoing support, answers your questions, & treats your property with respect.

Check:

Online reviews (Google, Facebook, Yelp, Angi)
Better Business Bureau (BBB) accreditation
Response time to inquiries & service requests
Willingness to provide local references

Also, consider how easy it is to reach real people, can you call or text someone if your app isn’t working or a light goes out?

6. Transparent Pricing & Value

A professional lighting system is an investment, so avoid companies that provide vague pricing or quote dramatically lower than competitors; it may signal poor-quality materials or hidden fees.

Look for:

Itemized estimates (fixtures, labor, control systems, warranties)
No-pressure sales approaches
Clear explanation of optional vs. required components
Maintenance or upgrade costs down the road

Some companies offer financing or seasonal discounts, so be sure to ask.

7. App & Smart Home Integration

Today’s systems often include remote management through smartphone apps. These can control brightness, color, timers, & scene presets; great for holidays, parties, or everyday ambience.

Ask about:

Mobile app compatibility (iOS, Android)
Integration with platforms like Google Home, Alexa, & other platforms
Voice control or automation features (e.g., turn lights on at sunset)
Ability to create zones or schedule lighting scenes

This level of control not only boosts convenience but also improves energy efficiency & security.

8. Warranty & Ongoing Support

Good lighting companies stand behind their work. Always ask what’s covered under their warranty, including both parts & labor. A solid warranty shows the company’s confidence in its products & installation practices.

You might see:

5- to 10-year warranties on LED fixtures
1- to 3-year coverage on controllers or apps
Maintenance plans for annual checkups, cleaning, or adjustments

Make sure you understand what voids the warranty & whether there's an emergency service option available.

9. Community Reputation & Values

Supporting local or family-run businesses can come with added value, especially if they’re invested in the community. Companies run by veterans, tradespeople, or local families often bring strong work ethics, integrity, & accountability to the job.

Look for:

Involvement in local events or sponsorships
Commitment to sustainability or energy efficiency
Clear company mission & values

Conclusion

Permanent lighting can be one of the most rewarding upgrades to your home, but only if it’s done right. Take your time researching lighting companies, ask the right questions, & don’t be afraid to walk away from a deal that doesn’t feel right. The right partner will help bring your vision to life with quality, reliability, & confidence.

Interested in learning more about JellyFish Lighting? The leading brand & innovator in outdoor lighting solutions? Check out more info on our resource page "Why JellyFish Lighting?"