FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS


Watch this brief video tutorial about our frequently asked questions.


Q. How do you price your jobs?

A. We price our work per item or project. The first step will be to schedule a brief consultation so we can meet with you, take a look at your project, answer any questions you may have and provide you with a price before we begin working. That way there are no surprises and you know exactly what to budget for your project.
 

Q. Can I provide my own material and have Lumen Brothers install it?

A. Due to the large amount of liability inherent in electrical work, we insist on supplying basic electrical products such as switches, outlets, wire, boxes, etc. We have painstakingly vetted certain products throughout our experience as electricians and choose them based on quality and safety. we do, however, recommend that our clients supply their own decorative lighting fixtures based on aesthetic preference alone. We are happy to suggest lighting websites to help our clients find the best fixture for their specific project.

Q. Do you ever have to cut into my walls or ceilings in order to do your work? If so, do you patch the walls when you’re finished?

A. Some projects, not all, do require drywall to be cut. In these cases, we will communicate that to you right away. We take care in our drywall cutting, making clean cuts in order to ensure easy patching. While Lumen Brothers does not patch drywall or plaster, we do know some very talented local craftsmen that we can introduce you to.

This short video gives you an idea of how we cut across joists when we remove drywall from the ceiling.


Q. What is your company’s approach when you find knob and tube wiring in my home?

A. We always replace all conductors in a knob and tube circuit to provide proper grounding for safety and fire prevention. As a safety measure and for insurance purposes, Lumen Brothers can not attach any new conductors to existing knob and tube wiring. This includes replacing devices and fixtures attached to knob and tube wiring.


Knob & Tube Wiring

Click to read our blog post about common issues with historic wiring.

Q. Do I need to worry about pulling the proper permits for the job?

A. We will pull all necessary permits for work at the client’s request and schedule all inspections by jurisdiction.


Q. Am I responsible for setting up an electrical inspection after the work is done?

A. No. If an inspection is necessary, Lumen Brother will guide the client through the inspection process, which includes scheduling the inspection, meeting with the inspector and making corrections to pass inspection.


Q. When do I pay for the work and what forms of payment do you accept?

A. We collect payment upon completion of the physical work. Inspection and coordination with the utility provider are included at no extra cost and will be handled after payment of work. We accept cash, check and credit card.


Q. How does your company handle and charge for unforeseen situations that arise during a project?

A. Sometimes, during the course of our work, we do run into unforeseen issues that are necessary to handle in order for the original work to be done properly. When these issues arise, we will always communicate with you before we do any work that we have not previously discussed or quoted. It’s important to us that you understand each part of the project and that you agree to any and all work being done before we move forward. We will not surprise you with a price that you did not agree to. 


Q. How will you protect my belongings while you work in my home?

A. We will protect your floors and belongings by utilizing drop cloths and boot covers for all interior residential work. We always clean up after ourselves and do our best to leave your place better than we found it.

Doug & Josh went above & beyond to assist us with problem solving our electrical needs in our historic row home. They are both enthusiastic about their work & creative in their suggestions. They are honest, show up when they say they will, work efficiently & clean up after themselves! Fees are fair. The best electrical team in the area, hands down.
— Deb - Client