First-Timer’s Guide: What to Ask Before You Hire a Christmas Light Installer

Top 10 Questions to Ask Holiday Light Installers

Have you made the decision to save some time this holiday season and hire a professional light install company, but you're not quite sure where to start? Perfect, because we are giving you all the details you need in order to ask the right questions when you are vetting different install companies. In this blog we will go over the top 10 questions to ask and what answers you should be hoping to hear.

Choosing the wrong crew could mean delays, bad bulbs, missed appointments and poor upkeep – not something you want to deal with during the busy season. We suggest you focus on the basics: solid reputation, a clear warranty, and quality lights. Keeping those basics in mind, here are the 10 questions to ask any holiday light installer before you book.

1) Do You Carry General Liability and Workers’ Comp?

Ask for current certificates before install begins. Good signs to look for include in-house crews (not hired out), a named site lead, and good roof-safety practices.

Why is this important?

This protects you legally and financially. Workers’ comp covers the crew if someone falls, so their medical bills and lost wages don’t become your problem; one injury can cost $50,000–$200,000+. General liability pays for property damage and third-party injuries, like broken gutters, torn shingles, a window hit by a ladder, or a guest tripping on a cord—repairs can hit $5,000–$20,000 fast. If they use subcontractors without coverage, your homeowner’s policy may exclude job-site injuries, leaving you exposed. Insured companies also tend to train crews and name a site lead, which means fewer accidents and fewer delays.

2) What’s Included From Start to Finish?

When searching for the right install team you will want to look for a company that offers a single cost upfront. This means that the one price covers everything from design and install to mid-season service plus takedown/storage. We suggest getting a written scope with dates, crew access notes, and anything that is not covered in the price.

Why is this important?

It protects you from surprise costs and wasted time. A clear scope means you’re not nickeled for timers, service visits, takedown, or storage, and you can compare bids fairly because each quote covers the same items. It also locks in dates, access and responsibilities, which prevents delays.

3) What Lights Do You Use?

You will want to know what lighting options a company offers to make sure its a quality product. We suggest all lighting gear to be commercial-grade LED. LEDs are known for running cooler, they last longer and cost less to power – talk about a trifecta! A good lighting company will also offer different styles to match whatever vibe you are going for. This can include multiple color options and different size bulbs (C9/C7).

Why is this important?

Knowing what types of lights a company uses tells you a lot about safety, costs and looks. Better products usually come with better warranties and quicker support if you need it.

4) How Do You Attach the Lights?

Look for a company that uses clips to attach lights to your house. If someone is suggesting you use nails or staples – that's a big red flag!

Why is this important?

Because the attachment method can damage your home and void roof warranties. Staples and nails pierce shingles, siding and gutters. This damage can lead to leaks, rust, and mold. They also can create electrical and fire risks if they nick wires. Insurers and home inspectors notice this—claims can get messy and resale can suffer. Clips keep the install non-invasive, faster to remove, and safer in wind, ice, and snow.

5) What’s the Warranty and Repair Time?

The best case scenario is to have a season-long warranty and a firm window. Make sure you ask what is covered in the warranty; bulbs, clips, timers, labor etc. You should also find out how the company handles loose or hanging strands mid-season. A reputable company warrants the display for the entire season and returns to fix issues ASAP so your display stays festive and functional.

Why is this important?

Because this is Minnesota and things fail in the winter. Bulbs burn out, wind loosens clips, and ice can pull down on a line. Warranties prevent surprise costs and endless back-and-forth. You know who to call, how to request assistance and when they will arrive (e.g., 24-72 hrs).

6) What’s My Install Window and Your Weather Plan?

Prime dates go fast while the weather holds, and storms will happen. Pick a company that gives you a firm target week with buffer days, options that fit your schedule, and proactive text/email updates. They should reschedule promptly after weather, protect your roof and landscaping, and never add surprise delay fees.

Why is this important?

It matters because the weather in MN is wild. A sudden storm can shut down ladders and roof work, and without a backup plan your install gets bumped and you miss key weekends. A clear window and weather plan keeps you in the loop, avoids rushed or unsafe work, and protects your roof and landscaping—no surprise fees, no guesswork.

7) Who Handles Takedown and Off-Season Storage?

Beware – this is where surprise fees like to hide. You want to look for a company that handles both install and take-down on a set schedule and that both are included in the price upfront.

Why is this important?

It matters because most headaches happen after the holidays. Bundling takedown and storage keeps your total cost clear and avoids surprise fees. Pros remove lights safely so you’re not risking shingles, gutters, or a ladder fall. One company owning install, service, takedown, and storage also protects your warranty and gives you a single point of accountability.

8) Who is My Point of Contact During the Season?

Nobody wants to clog their phone with a bunch of names and numbers you’re not sure where they came from. You want one name and one number to be your contact for your lights. Make sure you ask how to request a service and what the expected response time will be. We also suggest getting a backup contact for vacations/holidays so you’re never stuck waiting.

Why is this important?

A single point of contact keeps things smooth and stress-free. You get faster fixes, clear updates, and one person who knows your layout and timer settings. They own outages, warranty claims, and change orders so nothing slips. No phone tag, no re-explaining—just a lit display all season.

9) Any HOA or Permit Issues?

If you live in a neighborhood with an HOA its important to know what their rules and regulations around holiday lights/decorations are. A good install company will ask you right away about any rules/regulations to follow to avoid any surprises down the road.

Why is this important?

Hanging a beautiful light display, only to have it taken down before anyone can enjoy it would really put you in Grinch mode. Stay compliant and keep your lights sparkling all season long!

10) Can I See Recent Work and Reviews?

Like any service, you will want to verify a company’s past work to make sure they can accomplish your vision and make sure other customers have been satisfied with their work. Remember: proof beats promises! Ask for photos from recent jobs and skim a few of the negative Google reviews (if they have any) and see how the company replied; fast and courteous replies shows they want to do right by their customers.

Why is this important?

Being able to see a company’s recent work and reviews is proof of quality, not just claims. Viewing a home that looks similar to yours shows you that they can handle the job you are asking for - no guesswork!

Red Flags to Avoid

“We staple into shingles or siding”
“We use whatever lights are on sale”
a vague schedule like “sometime in November”
service calls that cost extra
“we subcontract everything with no single contact”

What to Prep Before You Call

Two or three inspiration photos
A front-of-home photo (daylight and dusk)
HOA rules (if any)
Timeline preferences
A budget range you’re comfortable with
Note outlet locations and any breaker issues

Why Homeowners Pick Jingle Bulbs Christmas Lighting

If you want a beautiful light display, and a worry-free season- go with Jingle Bulbs Christmas Lighting! We handle everything from design and install to mid-season service and takedown/storage. You don't have to lift a finger – besides giving us a call!

Our displays use commercial-grade LEDS with sealed connections and clips that are gentle on your property but last all season long. Pricing is clear and itemized with no surprises. And, if anything needs attention we are quick to respond so your home keeps shining.

Ready for a worry-free display?

Schedule A Consultation

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