Permanent lighting warranties, explained

Every permanent lighting install carries two separate warranties, and confusing them is the most common source of frustration.

Manufacturer warranty Covers the physical components: pixels, channel, controllers and power supplies. Length and terms are set by the brand, and claims usually route through the installing company.

Workmanship warranty Covers how the system was installed: fastening, sealing, wire routing, concealment and commissioning. This is written by the installer, and it is where the real variation lives — anywhere from one to five or more years.

What to confirm in writing Start dates, whether labor to replace a covered component is included, whether service visits carry a trip charge, and what voids coverage. Roof replacement and third-party modifications are common exclusions.