Every November, we get calls from London homeowners who booked a "great deal" on Christmas light installation — and then discovered what wasn't included. Different companies mean very different things by "installation," and the gaps only show up in December, when it's too late to switch. Ask these five questions before you book anyone, including us.
1. Who owns the lights?
Some installers rent you the lights: you pay every year, and if you ever leave, the lights leave with you — er, with them. Others install lights you purchase and own. Ask directly. (Our answer: the lights are custom-cut for your home and they're yours. You own them, and we store them for you between seasons.)
2. What happens when a bulb goes out in December?
Lights fail in the cold — it's a matter of when, not if. The question is whether anyone comes to fix it, how fast, and whether it costs extra. In-season service should be included, not an add-on. Our customers will tell you: same-day or next-day service calls are the standard we hold ourselves to.
3. Is takedown — and storage — included?
The install is the fun part. January takedown on an icy roof is not. Some quotes quietly leave takedown out, and almost nobody mentions storage. A complete service includes design, installation, in-season service, takedown, and storage — five things, one price. If a quote is missing pieces, it isn't a lower price; it's a smaller service.
4. Are you insured, and are you comfortable with heights?
People on your roof should be covered by proper insurance and experienced with tall, complex rooflines — ask for specifics, and pay attention to whether the answer is direct. Steep peaks and two-storey homes are exactly where corner-cutting gets dangerous. Any professional installer will be happy you asked.
5. Is the design custom for my home — and can I see your work?
A roll of lights stapled in a straight line is not a design. Ask how they'll approach your home's specific features — peaks, trees, entrance — and ask to see photos of real local installs (not stock photos) and reviews from named local customers. A company proud of its work will have both ready.
One bonus question: when should I reach out?
September and October are ideal, because installs go more smoothly before the snow and ice. If you're reading this in autumn, now's a great time to get a free quote.
We're happy to answer every one of these questions about our own service — that's exactly the conversation we want to have. Free quotes: 226-271-6952, serving London, St. Thomas, Strathroy, Dorchester, Ilderton, Komoka, Kilworth, Delaware, and Arva.
Learn more about our Christmas light installation in London, Ontario.
