OVERLAND PARK, Kan. — You’ve probably seen the signs advertising help with holiday lights.
But how do you choose which company to string lights at your home?
Chris Light Co. in Overland Park told 41 Action News that there are a few things homeowners should look for when choosing a company to install lights.
- Use a company with insurance. Should an employee fall off a ladder on your property, you want the company to handle the claim, not you.
- Try using a company that does landscape lighting all year round, not just for a few months. That way, you’ll know the company will take down your lights and not move on to another job.
- Expect to pay between $400 and $500 at minimum. Something cheaper may be too good to be true.
- Expect companies to require you to buy lights from them. Many companies only install lights they’re familiar with, and then they will store your lights during the offseason and replace bulbs for free. Buying the lights is a one-time cost.
- Use LED bulbs instead of incandescent because they will save you money on your electric bill. Few companies even offer incandescent these days.
- Ask companies about a discount. Chris Light Co., for example, begins offering discounted prices from the first week of December up to Christmas.
- Be patient. Most companies are slammed during the holiday season. Understand they’re juggling many clients.
- Ask whether the company can give you an estimate by just looking at a picture of your house.
Bruce Rimbo hired Chris Light Co. to install lights on his home. He said holiday lights make the season come alive and are worth the investment.
“It's sort of like I could give myself a haircut, but I would hate to think of what it would look like," Rimbo said. "I know that's how the Christmas lights would probably turn out if I did them myself."
His last piece of advice is to ask your neighbors who they use. A good reference goes a long way.
