Homeowner's Checklist to Choosing a Residential Electrician in Troy, MI

October 17, 2025
An electrician wearing a yellow hardhat and gloves, with a tool in his hands, rewiring a wall socket.

Choosing a residential electrician in Troy, MI, isn’t just about solving power problems, it’s about who you trust to keep your home safe, efficient, and up to code. At Landmark Electric, Inc., we know that electrical work is among the most important maintenance and upgrade decisions you’ll make for your property. With sudden issues and upgrades alike, the process of finding the right expert can be overwhelming. That’s why we've put together this detailed homeowner’s checklist: to help you find a home electrician who combines expertise with reliability and integrity.

The Homeowner’s Checklist: What Matters Most

When it’s time to call for electrical work, knowing what (and who) you’re searching for makes all the difference. Here are key criteria that every homeowner in Troy, MI, should evaluate when seeking a qualified residential electrician.

Licensing: The Foundation of Professionalism

A properly licensed residential electrician is your assurance that the person working on your electrical system understands current codes, safety protocols, and the scope of Michigan regulations. Licensure isn’t just a government formality, it’s a measure of a professional’s training, testing, and commitment to safe practices. Before work begins, request proof of licensing. This is especially crucial in Troy, MI, where local ordinances may require specific credentials depending on the nature of electrical projects.

Insurance: Protecting Your Home and Investment

It’s essential that any residential electrician in Troy, MI, who enters your home holds both liability insurance and worker’s compensation. Why? Even experienced professionals encounter the unexpected: a tool dropped, a wire crossed, or an unforeseen wiring issue inside your walls. Insurance protects not just the contractor but also you—the homeowner—by covering injury, property damage, or accidents that may occur during the job. Always ask for up-to-date insurance documentation before hiring anyone for jobs like panel upgrades and rewiring.

Reputation and Reviews: Listening to Your Neighbors

A major benefit of working with a local residential electrician in Troy, MI, is being able to tap into community knowledge. Real reviews and referrals tell the story beyond a company’s own website. Search for ratings, testimonials, and third-party review sites. What are your neighbors saying? Do clients mention prompt responses, courteous service, and jobs completed without need for costly follow-ups? Landmark Electric, Inc. prides itself on word-of-mouth recommendations and a five-star reputation built locally—elements you should always seek before hiring.

Transparent Pricing: The Importance of Honest Estimates

Nothing triggers stress like a vague estimate or a final bill that’s far higher than expected. A professional residential electrician in Troy, MI, provides transparent, detailed pricing before work begins. This includes breaking out labor, materials, and any possible contingencies. Avoid contractors who offer estimates over the phone without seeing your setup or who resist putting things in writing. At Landmark Electric, Inc., we believe clear, up-front pricing is the cornerstone of a strong client relationship—never work with anyone who doesn’t agree.

Warranty on Work: Confidence in Craftsmanship

A trustworthy residential electrician in Troy, MI, stands behind their work with a written warranty. This isn’t just about fixing mistakes, it's about demonstrating confidence in workmanship and the longevity of materials used. Ask your electrician what type of guarantee is provided, how warranty claims are handled, and what is (or isn’t) covered. A reputable provider, like Landmark Electric, Inc., is proud to outline warranty details, so you’ll know exactly what to expect after the job is complete.

Local Experience: Understanding Troy, MI’s Unique Needs

Homes in Troy, MI, have their own electrical characteristics, from mid-century builds with outdated wiring to new developments that require smart-home integrations. A residential electrician who’s completed hundreds of local projects is prepared for the area’s specific housing stock and climate challenges. Local knowledge means fewer surprises, faster troubleshooting, and even familiarity with city inspectors—making the permitting and inspection process smoother for you.

Electrician with a tool in his hands, wearing a tool belt beside his van with a house in the background.

A Checklist for Your Next Electrical Project

Use this checklist every time you need a residential electrician in Troy, MI:

1. Verify Licensing and Insurance 
- Ask to see active state and local licenses. 
- Request proof of liability insurance and worker’s compensation. 

2. Read Reviews and Request References 
- Examine Google, Yelp, and other sites. 
- Ask for references from other Troy, MI, homeowners. 
3. Request Written, Itemized Estimates 
- Get every detail in writing before work starts. 
- Don’t accept only verbal or generic estimates.

4. Confirm Warranty and Post-Project Support 
- Find out how warranty claims are managed. 
5. Assess Local Experience 
- Opt for those who know Troy, MI codes, inspectors, and housing types. 
6. Evaluate Professionalism 
- Look for clear communication, punctuality, and proper business credentials.

Why This Matters: The Value of Diligence

Your home’s electrical system powers every convenience, comfort, and safety feature you rely on. Using this checklist when hiring a residential electrician isn’t just about getting the job done—it’s about protecting your property, your family, and your peace of mind. Contractors who check every box will deliver not just great results, but ongoing value and reliability for years to come.

Red Flags: What to Avoid When Hiring

Your priority is a safe, functional home. Here are red flags that should send you searching elsewhere for a residential electrician:

 

  • Vague or Verbal Estimates: Reliable electricians provide precise, written estimates outlining every cost.
  • No Permit Process: If permits are required by law, skipping them puts your home and insurance at risk.
  • Refusal to Share References: A professional has plenty of satisfied customers happy to serve as references. Avoid those who can’t or won’t provide references from other Troy, MI, homeowners.
  • Unmarked Vehicles or No Business Address: These can be signs of someone who is not properly established or operating legally.
  • Pressure to Pay Cash Upfront: Legitimate contractors rarely require full cash payment before work begins, especially prior to any service.

Landmark Electric, Inc.: Our Commitment to Troy, MI, Homeowners

Landmark Electric, Inc., sets itself apart through a commitment to honesty, transparency, and certified expertise—all critical qualities when hiring a residential electrician. Our approach centers on honest, written estimates, the professional assurance of certified technicians, and a stellar local reputation reflected in five-star client reviews. Being deeply embedded in the Troy, MI, community means not just meeting standards but exceeding them with every project, large or small.

Hire Your Residential Electrician Today!

Don’t leave your next project to chance. When it’s time to choose a residential electrician in Troy, MI, Landmark Electric, Inc. is ready to help with honest estimates, certified professionals, and a commitment to five-star service. Call us today at (586) 405-0227 for a no-obligation consultation and see why your neighbors trust Landmark Electric, Inc. with their homes. 

Residential electrician in Birmingham, MI testing voltage at a home.

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A kitchen with gray cabinets and stainless steel appliances

5 Kitchen Lighting Ideas That Add Style and Efficiency

By admin • July 2, 2025
Your kitchen is more than just a place to cook—it’s where families gather, meals are shared, and memories are made. But poor lighting can make even the nicest kitchen feel dull, dated, or inefficient. At Landmark Electric, we help homeowners across Troy, Michigan, and the surrounding Metro Detroit area upgrade their kitchen lighting for both style and energy savings. Here are five modern kitchen lighting ideas that can elevate your space and reduce your energy bill. 1. Under-Cabinet Lighting: Function Meets Flair Under-cabinet LED lights are one of the most popular upgrades we install. They illuminate countertops, reduce shadows, and make food prep easier—all while adding a sleek, high-end touch to your kitchen aesthetic. Why we love it: Energy-efficient LED strips or puck lights Motion sensor or smart switch options Great for task lighting and evening ambiance Pro tip: Choose warm white LEDs for a cozy glow or cool white for a modern, crisp look. 2. Pendant Lights Over Islands and Counters Pendant lighting creates a stylish focal point while providing essential task lighting over kitchen islands, breakfast bars, or dining nooks. This is your chance to showcase personality—from vintage Edison bulbs to modern industrial fixtures. Why we love it: • Adds dimension and character • Works with dimmers for adjustable brightness • Easy to pair with recessed or ambient lighting 3. Smart Lighting Systems for Full Control Imagine controlling all your kitchen lights from your phone, voice assistant, or wall panel. With smart LED lighting, you can automate brightness, color temperature, and even set schedules—ideal for both energy savings and convenience. Why we love it: Works with Alexa, Google Home, or mobile apps Dimmable and programmable settings Save on your electricity bill by reducing waste Popular installations: Wi-Fi dimmers, smart under-cabinet lights, and multi-zone lighting systems 4. Layered Lighting = Balanced Brightness Professional kitchen lighting isn’t about one light source—it’s about layering. The perfect kitchen setup includes Ambient lighting (overall brightness) Task lighting (over counters, islands) Accent lighting (under cabinets, toe-kicks, or shelves) This layered approach ensures every part of your kitchen is functional and beautiful—no dark corners or harsh overhead glare. 5. Recessed Lighting for a Clean, Modern Look Also known as can lights or pot lights, recessed lighting provides smooth, even coverage without visual clutter. It’s ideal for kitchens with low ceilings or a minimalist design. Why we love it: Energy-efficient LED recessed fixtures Sleek and subtle ceiling finish Works perfectly with smart dimmers Bonus: We can install wet-rated recessed lights in kitchens with high humidity or near sinks.
A person is working on an electrical box in a house.

7 Common Home Wiring Issues and How to Spot Them

By admin • July 2, 2025
From flickering lights to buzzing outlets, electrical problems can be more than just annoying—they can pose serious safety risks. At Landmark Electric, we’ve repaired thousands of home wiring issues across Troy, Royal Oak, Sterling Heights, and the greater Metro Detroit area. Here are the most common problems we see and how to recognize the warning signs before they become dangerous. 1. Flickering or Dimming Lights If your lights flicker or dim when appliances turn on, it could signal a loose connection, an overloaded circuit, or an aging electrical panel. This is one of the most common calls we receive across Oakland and Macomb counties. When to call: If the flickering is frequent or affects multiple rooms, contact a licensed electrician immediately. 2. Warm or Discolored Outlets Outlets that are warm to the touch, scorched, or discolored may indicate overheating or faulty wiring behind the wall—a serious fire hazard. When to call: Right away. This is a major red flag and should be inspected by a professional ASAP. 3. Buzzing Sounds or Burning Smells If you hear a buzzing noise from a switch or smell burning plastic, shut off power to that area and call an electrician. These issues are often caused by arcing or loose wire connections inside your walls. 4. Frequently Tripping Breakers Are your circuit breakers tripping often—especially when using appliances like microwaves or space heaters? This could be due to overloaded circuits, outdated wiring, or a faulty breaker. Tip: Modern homes require more amperage. If you live in an older home in Troy, MI, your panel may need an upgrade. 5. Two-Prong (Ungrounded) Outlets Older homes built before the 1960s may still have two-pronged outlets. These are not grounded and offer limited protection against shocks or surges—especially around water sources like kitchens and bathrooms. Solution: We recommend upgrading to GFCI-protected, grounded outlets for your safety. 6. Extension Cord Overuse If you’re using extension cords or power strips daily, it’s likely a sign that your home doesn’t have enough outlets or circuits. This overuse can strain your system and increase fire risk. Tip: Our team can safely install additional circuits and outlets where you need them most. 7. Aluminum Wiring (Older Homes) Homes built in the 1960s and 70s may contain aluminum wiring, which expands and contracts, causing loose connections over time. It can increase the risk of arcing and electrical fires. Solution: Have a licensed electrician inspect your wiring. We offer safe rewiring and aluminum-to-copper retrofits.
A person is working on an electrical box with a screwdriver.

When Should You Upgrade Your Electrical Panel?

By admin • July 2, 2025
Your electrical panel is the heart of your home’s power system. It distributes electricity to your lights, appliances, and outlets. But if your panel is outdated or overloaded, it can pose a serious fire hazard—and may not support the power demands of today’s modern home. At Landmark Electric, we upgrade panels every week across Troy, Royal Oak, Sterling Heights, and the Metro Detroit area to help homeowners stay safe, compliant, and ready for future needs. 1. Your Home Still Has a Fuse Box If you’re still using a fuse box, your electrical system is long overdue for an upgrade. Fuses are outdated, can be unsafe, and are not designed to handle today’s energy use—especially with appliances like EV chargers, air conditioners, and high-powered kitchen equipment. 2. Circuit Breakers Trip Frequently If your breakers trip often, especially when running appliances like microwaves, vacuums, or space heaters, it may mean your panel is overloaded or failing. Frequent tripping is a sign of: Inadequate amperage (often 60–100 amps in older homes) Loose wiring or outdated circuit breakers Overloaded circuits from high-energy use 3. Burning Smells, Buzzing, or Warm Panels Any of the following are signs of immediate concern: A burning smell from the panel or outlets A warm-to-the-touch panel or breakers Buzzing or humming sounds These could indicate loose connections, arcing, or breaker failure—all of which are electrical fire risks. 4. Is My Electrical Panel Out of Date? Many homeowners don’t know how to tell if their electrical panel is still safe. If your home was built before 1995, or you don’t know the last time your panel was inspected, it may be due for replacement.