Electrical FAQs

The price depends on the outlet type, circuit condition, access, routing and protection required. Landmark does not give a binding unseen price. Service begins with a $79 dispatch and on-site evaluation charge, which is waived when you proceed with approved work during the visit. You receive flat-rate options before work begins.

Yes, when an acceptable wiring route, box location and circuit configuration are available. Landmark evaluates conductor length, box fill, grounding, required protection and wall access before presenting an option. Drywall, plaster, painting and finish repair are excluded unless the written proposal specifically includes them.

Frequent or strong sparking can indicate loose terminals, worn receptacles, or overloaded circuits, which are fire risks. We diagnose the root cause, replace unsafe devices, and correct wiring so your outlets operate safely.

A GFCI (ground‑fault circuit interrupter) shuts power off in milliseconds to prevent shock. They’re required in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry areas, basements, garages, and outdoors. Landmark Electric installs and tests GFCIs to keep your family safe.

Arc-fault protection is required for many dwelling circuits under the adopted electrical code, but the requirement depends on the circuit, location, project scope and local rules. Landmark evaluates the existing wiring and explains what protection is required for the proposed work.

Absolutely. Dedicated circuits prevent nuisance trips and overheating by isolating high‑demand appliances and tools. Landmark Electric sizes the circuit correctly and labels it clearly in your panel for easy future service.

Common causes include tripped GFCIs upstream, loose back‑stabbed connections, or a failed breaker. We track the circuit path, fix faults, and restore power safely—with clear documentation of what we repaired.

Yes. Tamper‑resistant (TR) receptacles reduce shock risks for children by blocking foreign objects. We can upgrade select rooms or your entire home in Troy and the greater Metro Detroit area for added peace of mind.

Frequent tripping, heat, buzzing, corrosion, water intrusion, damaged components, obsolete equipment or inadequate capacity can justify evaluation. A load calculation and equipment-specific inspection help determine whether a focused repair, subpanel, service change or full replacement is appropriate.

Service size is determined from the home’s calculated loads, existing service equipment and planned additions—not from square footage or a blanket rule. Landmark reviews major appliances, heating and cooling, EV charging, future equipment and the existing service before recommending a size.

A fuse box is not automatically unsafe only because it is old. Its present condition, correct fuse sizing, capacity, modifications, grounding and insurance or project requirements all matter. Landmark evaluates the installed equipment and explains the specific basis for any repair or replacement recommendation.

Landmark evaluates aluminum and knob-and-tube wiring and can develop repair, remediation or replacement options based on the accessible condition, connection methods, insulation, loading and project scope. We do not assume every older wiring system requires the same correction.

Often, yes—by installing a listed subpanel or using approved tandem breakers where the panel labeling allows it. When expansion isn’t safe, we propose a right‑sized main panel replacement.

Yes. A panel or service change requires a planned outage. Landmark coordinates the electrical work and any required utility steps identified in the approved scope, then works to restore service as efficiently as field conditions, utility availability and inspection requirements allow. The expected sequence is reviewed before the project begins.

Qualifying Landmark panel installations include a 15-year panel warranty and one year of home electrical maintenance membership coverage. The written proposal and completed project documents identify the equipment, access requirements, exclusions and exact coverage that apply.

Panel changes, service work and substantial rewiring commonly require permits and inspections. The written Landmark proposal identifies whether permit coordination is included. Permits are not included unless listed in the approved scope, and local authority and utility requirements control the project.

The schedule depends on home size, wiring method, access, occupancy, circuit count, permit requirements and the extent of finish disturbance. Landmark develops a project-specific sequence after evaluating the property. Drywall, plaster, painting and finish repair are excluded unless the written proposal includes them.

Landmark Electric installs IC‑rated recessed fixtures, verifies insulation clearance, and places lighting to minimize shadows and glare. We also add dimming and smart controls for comfort and efficiency.

Yes—LEDs cut energy use and maintenance while improving brightness and color quality. We retrofit existing fixtures or design new layouts for homes and small businesses across Metro Detroit.

Absolutely. We install low‑profile, color‑accurate lighting with hidden wiring and dedicated switches for task areas—transforming kitchens in Troy, Birmingham, and surrounding communities.

The causes range from loose neutrals and overloaded dimmers to incompatible LED drivers. We diagnose quickly and correct the specific issue so your lighting is stable and silent.

Yes. We add reliable outdoor controls for security and convenience, sealing all exterior penetrations and using weather‑rated boxes and gaskets for durability.

Landmark can remove and replace electrical fixtures and can install electrical boxes or supports required by the approved scope. Drywall, plaster, decorative finish, mudding, painting and repair outside the electrical scope remain the customer’s responsibility unless specifically included in writing.

We use listed lifts, access equipment, and proper bracing to service two‑story foyers and great rooms, prioritizing safety and pristine finishes.

Yes. We install compatible dimmers and smart hubs, verify neutral availability and box fill, and program scenes you can control by phone or voice.

Landmark Electric installs Level 2 EV chargers for Tesla, Ford, GM, and others. We provide a dedicated circuit, correct breaker type, and proper wire size, then test and label the installation for everyday reliability.

Many hardwired chargers and new EV circuits require a local electrical permit and inspection. Requirements depend on the installation and authority having jurisdiction. The Landmark proposal identifies whether permit coordination is included in the approved scope.

We perform a load calculation to verify capacity. If upgrades are needed, we propose options—from load management devices to panel or service upgrades—for a safe, future‑ready solution.

Level 1 uses a standard 120V outlet and is slow; Level 2 runs on a 240V dedicated circuit and charges several times faster. We recommend the best option for your driving habits and electrical capacity.

Yes. We install a properly rated receptacle, verify conductor size and GFCI/overcurrent requirements, and label the circuit to manufacturer specs.

Yes. We mount, wire, connect Wi‑Fi when applicable, and confirm correct breaker and GFCI requirements so your smart features work reliably.

It shouldn’t when correctly sized. If we detect limited capacity, we recommend load management or panel upgrades to keep your home stable while charging.

Yes. Landmark installs automatic residential standby-generator systems, including compatible transfer equipment and the approved electrical scope. System sizing, site conditions, service capacity, permits, utility requirements and fuel-system coordination are reviewed before a proposal is finalized. Fuel piping or other non-electrical work is included only when expressly listed.

Portable units require manual setup and extension cords or a listed inlet with transfer equipment; standby systems are permanent, automatic, and safer. We help you choose based on budget and goals.

Yes—backfeeding through an outlet is dangerous and illegal. We install listed transfer equipment or interlock kits so you can power circuits safely during outages.

Follow the generator manufacturer’s current maintenance schedule and the operating conditions at the property. Runtime, battery condition, exercise history, fuel system and environment can change the interval. Landmark offers one-time maintenance and generator maintenance plans with defined included services.

Yes. We evaluate grounding, bonding, gas supply, and panel condition, then integrate a safe, code‑compliant solution that fits your property.

We calculate starting and running watts for HVAC, sump pumps, refrigerators, medical devices, and more to size a system that covers what matters most.

Yes—we pair generators with Type 2 surge protection to protect electronics from utility and switching surges for complete resilience.

Yes. A Type 2 protector at the main panel clamps voltage spikes from the utility, lightning‑induced surges, and large motor loads. We install devices like the Square D HEPD80 and verify proper grounding.

Panel‑level protection handles big surges; quality point‑of‑use strips add a second layer for sensitive electronics. We recommend a layered strategy for best protection.

Motor inrush can cause brief voltage drops if circuits are marginal. We check conductor sizing, terminations, and panel capacity, and recommend dedicated circuits or upgrades.

Yes. We assess starting currents, circuit size, and breaker type, then right‑size the protection so essential equipment runs reliably.

We combine surge protection, correct grounding/bonding, and isolated circuits where appropriate—then verify with testing so your gear stays safe.

Landmark evaluates grounding and bonding when it is relevant to the reported problem or included project scope. A complete grounding and bonding inspection is a defined service and should not be assumed to be part of every unrelated visit.

Trips can indicate overloads, short circuits, or ground faults. We test the circuit, locate the fault, and provide a durable fix—not just a reset.

Turn off the circuit and call us. Heat and scorch marks suggest loose connections or failing devices. We repair the defect and confirm the rest of the circuit is safe.

Yes. We inspect for loose service conductors, meter issues, or panel problems, then coordinate with the utility if needed to restore stable power.

You may have lost one leg of your 240V service. We test incoming power, tighten lugs to torque spec, and correct damaged equipment safely.

This can indicate a bonding/grounding issue or a fault in an appliance. We test quickly to eliminate shock hazards and correct the source.

Yes. We repair or replace damaged devices and verify the circuit protection so everyday items operate safely.

Yes—we diagnose faulty transformers, chimes, and wiring, and upgrade to modern smart doorbell power when needed.

We use tracer tools and inspection methods to locate improper splices and bring them into listed, accessible boxes as code requires.

Yes. We install weather‑resistant GFCIs and in‑use covers, correct water‑intrusion points, and ensure proper grounding for dependable operation.

Intermittent faults are our specialty. We methodically isolate segments, correct weak terminations, and verify with load testing so the issue doesn’t return.

Yes. Landmark can design and install basement circuits, receptacles, lighting, required protection and ventilation power. Access, load capacity, device locations and the approved written scope determine the work. Permit, drywall and finish responsibilities are identified separately in the proposal.

We install subpanels or dedicated circuits for EVs, welders, freezers, and tools, with proper trenching and weather‑rated equipment.

Yes—we rough‑in circuits, low‑voltage, and spare conduits so future projects are easier and less expensive.

Yes. We vent fans outdoors, provide required GFCI/AFCI protection, and confirm proper bath zoning for safety and moisture control.

Yes. We interconnect detectors with battery backup to meet code and protect your family day and night.

Landmark can evaluate documented electrical findings, verify the actual condition and prepare prioritized correction options. Scheduling, permits, inspection coordination and written documentation depend on the approved scope and closing timeline; an inspection report alone does not establish the final repair method or price.

Landmark provides commercial circuits, lighting, devices, panel work and related electrical improvements for offices, retail locations, restaurants, shops, managed properties and other business facilities. Plans, permits, inspections, access, shutdowns and coordination with other trades are included only as identified in the written proposal.

We retrofit to LED high‑bays, troffers, and controls to cut costs and boost visibility, often with utility rebates in Metro Detroit.

Landmark provides commercial electrical evaluation, repair and installation within the company’s licensed scope. Three-phase work is accepted after the equipment, voltage, available fault current, access and project requirements are reviewed.

Absolutely—dedicated circuits, isolated grounds where appropriate, and surge protection for sensitive loads.

Landmark offers commercial preventive-maintenance scopes built around the site’s panels, connections, lighting, controls and operating priorities. Inspection points, service frequency, documentation and specialized testing are included only when listed in the written proposal.

We install code‑compliant exit signs and emergency lighting, test battery packs, and document results for your safety records.

Permit requirements depend on the work and the local authority having jurisdiction. Many service changes, panel replacements, new circuits, rewiring projects and major installations require a permit. The approved proposal states whether Landmark’s permit coordination is included.

Responsibility is established in the written project scope. Landmark coordinates the electrical permit when it is expressly included. If a permit is not listed, it is not included in the quoted work. Additional work required by an inspector or authority is outside the original scope unless added in writing.

An inspector evaluates the permitted work and any related conditions within the inspection scope; an inspection is not automatically a certification of every concealed circuit in the home. Work must remain accessible as required until approval.

Often, focused safety and code corrections are possible without rewiring the entire home. The correct scope depends on the existing wiring method, accessible conditions, planned work, applicable code triggers and local requirements. Landmark prioritizes supported findings rather than claiming every older installation must be replaced.

Michigan and local rules determine when a homeowner may perform work and whether a permit is required. Regardless of who performs it, the installation must meet applicable safety, listing, permit and inspection requirements. Unpermitted or undocumented alterations can complicate future repairs, insurance and a sale.

Landmark provides written estimates and invoices describing the approved electrical scope. Project photos, permits, inspection records or technical reports are included only when part of the service or specifically requested and agreed upon.

There is no single interval that fits every property. An inspection is especially useful when buying or selling a home, after major alterations or storm damage, when an insurer requests it, or when you notice heat, odor, repeated tripping, shocks, flickering or other warning signs.

Stop using the device and call us. We test for faults, bonding issues, and GFCI protection to remove the hazard at its source.

Heat or discoloration suggests loose lugs or failing breakers. We de‑energize safely, correct terminations to torque spec, and replace damaged gear.

Yes. We assess panel condition, grounding/bonding, GFCI/AFCI coverage, and visible wiring to help you buy with confidence.

Absolutely. We circuit‑trace, create a durable legend, and label AFCI/GFCI locations for quick future service.

A two-prong receptacle indicates that an equipment grounding conductor may not be present at that location. Landmark can verify the circuit and explain permitted options, which may include installing a grounding conductor or using an allowed GFCI replacement method with the required labels. A GFCI does not create an equipment ground.

Some smart switches require a neutral conductor and some listed products are designed for specific no-neutral applications. Landmark verifies the existing conductors, grounding, box capacity, load type and product instructions before recommending a compatible method. We do not use an improvised conductor as a neutral.

Yes—especially with compatible LED fixtures. We match dimmers to drivers to avoid flicker and extend lamp life.

The best improvements depend on how the property uses energy. Electrical opportunities may include compatible LED lighting, occupancy or scheduling controls, efficient equipment and load-management settings. Landmark can address the electrical scope; utility rate selection, insulation and mechanical-system efficiency may require the utility or another qualified trade.

Landmark installs compatible smart electrical devices, controls and certain listed energy-management equipment after confirming the wiring, neutral, communications, panel and manufacturer requirements. Product capability and ongoing software support are controlled by the manufacturer.

Yes—using fan‑rated boxes and correct mounting hardware for safety and quiet operation.

We automate charging during off‑peak windows and size circuits properly so you save without sacrificing convenience.

Landmark does not provide free on-site estimates. Standard service begins with a $79 dispatch and on-site evaluation charge. That charge is waived when you proceed with approved work during the visit. After evaluation, you receive clear flat-rate options before work begins.

Yes. Landmark’s standard dispatch and on-site evaluation charge is $79. It covers sending an electrical professional to the property and the initial evaluation. The charge is waived when you proceed with approved work during the visit. After-hours, emergency, extended diagnostic, permit or special-access charges are explained separately when applicable.

Electrical pricing depends on the actual condition, access and cause. The evaluation charge supports an on-site assessment so Landmark can identify the appropriate service and present flat-rate options based on the property instead of giving an unreliable unseen price.

The standard $79 dispatch and evaluation charge is waived when you proceed with approved work during the visit. It is not waived when no work is authorized. Other diagnostic, emergency, after-hours or project-specific charges are governed by the written option or service agreement.

The cost depends on home size, wiring method, access, occupied conditions, service capacity, finish protection, permit requirements and the number of circuits and devices. Landmark prepares a project-specific proposal after evaluating the property; an unseen range is not a reliable commitment.

Service size, panel location, breaker count and type, service-entrance condition, meter and mast work, grounding and bonding, surge protection, exterior disconnect requirements, utility coordination, access and permits can all affect scope. Landmark presents written options based on the actual installation.

Landmark may discuss the type of service required, but exact pricing depends on panel capacity, breaker compatibility, route, length, wiring method, access, protection and equipment requirements. A binding option follows the on-site evaluation.

Financing is available for qualifying electrical projects through Landmark’s third-party financing provider. Approval, rates, terms and available promotions are determined by the lender. Customers can review payment options without changing the electrical recommendation for the property.

Some EV-charging, lighting and home-electrification projects may qualify under current utility, state or federal programs. Eligibility, equipment lists, application timing, funding and payment are controlled by the program administrator. Verify requirements before purchasing equipment or beginning work.

Landmark Electric, Inc. is a licensed and insured Michigan electrical contractor. Michigan Electrical Contractor License #6114673. Project-specific permit, registration or documentation requirements are confirmed as applicable.

Landmark is a locally owned Metro Detroit electrical contractor led by Shawn A. Hickson, President. The company serves Oakland and Macomb counties and Harper Woods plus the five Grosse Pointe communities in Wayne County. We do not publish an unverified years-in-business claim.

Landmark’s team is expected to arrive professionally, communicate clearly and respect the customer’s home. For current hiring, screening or personnel-policy details, contact the office rather than relying on a blanket website claim.

Landmark stands behind approved work under the written warranty and satisfaction terms that apply to the service. Qualifying panel installations include a 15-year panel warranty and one year of maintenance membership coverage. Project documents control the exact coverage and exclusions.

Landmark coordinates permits and inspections when they are listed in the approved proposal. Permits are not included unless written into the scope. Additional work required by an inspector, utility or authority is handled as a separate written change unless already included.

Landmark offers same-day availability when scheduling permits and prioritizes active electrical hazards. Calls received before 2 p.m. have the best same-day opportunity. Emergency and after-hours service is available 24/7; exact arrival depends on location, current calls and field conditions.