Hiring a professional to install your holiday lights sounds simple enough — until you start getting quotes and realize how differently companies operate. Some install and leave, some manage the display all season and take it down in January, and prices can vary wildly for what looks like the same service on paper. Before you sign a contract, here are seven questions that will tell you exactly what you’re getting — and help you avoid the headaches that come with hiring the wrong crew. 

Are You Licensed and Insured?

This is the single most important question, and it’s non-negotiable. Holiday lighting installation involves ladder work, roof access, and electrical connections — all things that carry real liability if something goes wrong. A reputable company will carry general liability insurance and, ideally, workers’ compensation coverage for their crew. If a company hesitates to answer this or can’t provide proof of insurance, treat that as a hard pass, no matter how good their price looks. 

Does the Price Include Design, Installation, Takedown, and Storage?

Some companies charge one flat rate for the entire season — design consultation, installation, maintenance, and takedown after the holidays. Others charge separately for each piece, or leave takedown entirely up to you. Get clarity upfront on exactly what’s included, because “installation only” quotes often look cheaper at first but can cost more once you add takedown and storage as separate line items later. 

What Kind of Lights and Materials Do You Use?

Not all LED lights are created equal. Ask whether the company uses commercial-grade, weatherproof LED lighting versus consumer-grade strands from a big box store. Commercial-grade lights typically have sealed connections, better UV resistance, and longer lifespans — which matters a lot in South Florida’s heat, humidity, and occasional heavy rain. It’s also worth asking whether the lights and clips are their property (which they’ll remove at takedown) or whether you’re purchasing the materials outright. 

Do You Offer Maintenance During the Season?

Lights fail. A strand can go dark, a connection can loosen in the wind, or a squirrel can do more damage than you’d think possible. Ask whether maintenance visits are included if something stops working mid-season, and how quickly they typically respond. A company that stands behind their installation with a maintenance guarantee is signaling confidence in their own work — and saving you from climbing a ladder yourself in December. 

Can I See Examples of Your Past Work?

Photos of previous installations tell you a lot — not just about quality, but about style. Some companies specialize in classic, understated displays; others lean into bold, colorful, maximalist looks. Ask to see a portfolio, and if possible, ask for a couple of local addresses or a service area map so you can see their work in person during the season. A company confident in their work will be happy to show it off. 

What Happens If There’s a Storm?

South Florida’s holiday season can still bring wind, rain, and the occasional late-season tropical system. Ask how the company secures lighting against wind damage, and what their policy is if a storm knocks something loose or damages part of the display. Knowing there’s a plan — rather than assuming you’ll have to fix it yourself — is part of what you’re paying for when you hire a professional instead of doing it yourself. 

When Do You Book Up, and When Will You Install?

Popular holiday lighting companies often book their installation calendar weeks or even months in advance, especially for prime early-December install dates. Ask when you need to reserve your spot to guarantee a pre-Thanksgiving or early-December installation, and get a written estimate of your install window. Waiting too long to book is one of the most common reasons homeowners end up disappointed with a rushed, late installation — or unable to get on the schedule at all. 

Red Flags to Watch For 

While you’re asking these questions, keep an eye out for a few warning signs: 

• No written contract or estimate — verbal agreements leave you with no recourse if something goes wrong 

• Requests for full payment upfront before any work is done 

• No local reviews or references you can actually verify 

• Vague answers about insurance or reluctance to provide documentation 

• Pressure to sign immediately without time to compare quotes 

None of these automatically mean a company is dishonest, but together they’re worth pausing over before you commit. 

What Does Professional Holiday Lighting Typically Cost? 

Pricing varies widely based on home size, the complexity of the design, and what’s included (design, installation, maintenance, and takedown), so it’s worth understanding the general factors that drive cost before you compare quotes: 

• Linear footage of lighting. Rooflines, window trim, and pathway lighting are usually priced by the foot, so larger or more architecturally detailed homes cost more to fully outline. 

• Design complexity. A simple roofline outline costs less than a layered display with multiple zones, wrapped trees, and accent lighting. 

• Permanent vs. seasonal. Permanent color-changing LED systems have a higher upfront cost but eliminate annual installation and takedown fees over time. 

• Height and accessibility. Multi-story homes, steep rooflines, or difficult access points can add to labor costs due to the additional equipment and time required. 

• What’s bundled in. As mentioned above, some quotes include design, maintenance, and takedown, while others charge for each separately — always compare like-for-like when evaluating price. 

Getting two or three quotes with a clear breakdown of what’s included will give you a much more accurate sense of value than comparing a single bottom-line number. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

How much notice do I need to give before the holidays?

Most professional installers recommend booking at least four to six weeks before you want your lights up, and earlier if you want a specific pre-Thanksgiving install date. Popular companies often fill their calendars by early November. 

Will the company remove the lights after the holidays, or is that on me?

This depends entirely on the package you choose. Full-service contracts typically include takedown and storage of materials, while installation-only agreements leave removal up to the homeowner. Always confirm this before signing. 

What happens if a strand of lights stops working mid-season?

Reputable companies offer maintenance visits during the season to fix outages, loose connections, or storm damage. Ask about response time for maintenance requests before you book, so you know what to expect if something needs attention in December. 

The Bottom Line 

Hiring a professional holiday lighting company should take the stress out of the season, not add to it. Asking these seven questions upfront — about insurance, materials, maintenance, and what’s actually included in the price — will help you compare quotes accurately and avoid surprises once the lights are up. 

Ready to Book Your Installation? 

At Let’s Get Lit, we’re fully licensed and insured, use commercial-grade LED lighting, and handle everything from design to takedown. Get your free quote today and see why South Florida homeowners trust us with their holiday displays year after year.