Outdoor lighting can transform your home—but only when it’s done right. Hiring the right landscape lighting contractor in Nashville ensures your project is both beautiful and functional.

So how do you avoid costly mistakes, shortcuts, or underwhelming results?

Let’s walk through the qualifications, red flags, and must-ask questions when choosing the best lighting professional for your home.

Why Contractor Choice Matters

Landscape lighting isn’t just about installing fixtures—it’s about design, efficiency, durability, and safety. The wrong contractor can leave you with:
  • Overexposed or underlit areas
  • Poorly aimed lights
  • Damaged plants or irrigation lines
  • High energy bills
  • Fixtures that burn out or corrode quickly

At LightTN, we’ve seen—and fixed—a lot of bad installs. Here’s how to avoid them.

1. Look for Specialized Experience

Not all landscapers are lighting designers. You want someone who focuses specifically on outdoor lighting, not a generalist. Ask:
  • How many lighting installations have you completed?
  • Do you design and install or just install?
  • What types of properties do you specialize in?

Tip: Look for companies with dedicated landscape lighting portfolios, especially in neighborhoods like Brentwood, Green Hills, or Belle Meade.

2. Review Their Portfolio

Great lighting contractors should proudly showcase:

  • Before-and-after photos
  • Day vs. night results
  • A variety of home styles
  • Path, uplight, deck, and accent work


If there’s no visual proof of past projects, they use stock photos, or AI generated photos, that’s a red flag.

Not sure which contractor to trust? Schedule a free design consultation with LightTN and get expert guidance from Nashville’s trusted lighting professionals.

3. Verify Licensing and Insurance

In Tennessee, exterior lighting doesn’t require a special license, under a $25,000 project—but low-voltage electrical work beyond those limits does.

Ask:

  • Are your installers certified?
  • Do you carry liability insurance?
  • Do you follow local codes and HOA rules?


Most Nashville companies are not licensed contractors through the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors.  LightTN is fully licensed, insured and trained on the latest safety and code standards.  

4. Ask About the Design Process

Professional lighting design includes:

  • Site visit and walkthrough
  • Discussion of goals and budget
  • Custom design plan
  • Fixture selection (color temp, beam spread, finish)
  • Nighttime demo or rendering


Beware of companies that “just install some lights.”

Lighting Layout-Model

5. Discuss Product Quality and Brands

The best contractors use professional-grade fixtures—not cheap solar lights from big-box stores.

Ask:


Also ask:
What warranties are included? (LightTN offers lifetime warranties on most systems.)

6. Get a Transparent Quote

A detailed quote should include:
  • Fixture types and quantities
  • Transformer and wiring details
  • Labor and install breakdown
  • Optional add-ons (smart timers, motion sensors)

Avoid vague lump-sum estimates with no detail.

7. Read Reviews and Ask for References

Check platforms like:


Look for consistent praise about professionalism, punctuality, and clean work. Also ask the company for direct references from past customers.

8. Ensure Post-Install Support

Lighting systems need occasional tuning, especially with plant growth and seasons. Ask:
  • Do you offer maintenance plans?
  • Will you adjust lights after installation?
  • What happens if a fixture fails?

LightTN offers post-install walk-throughs and service calls to keep your system perfect year-round.

The right outdoor lighting contractor doesn’t just install fixtures—they create a nighttime experience. At LightTN, we handle everything from concept to completion using only the best products and proven techniques. Get in touch today to light your Nashville home the right way.

Want to keep your property safe and beautiful after dark? Read our expert design tips for lighting safety ➝