Under-Cabinet Lighting Planning Checklist

Use this worksheet to turn an idea for better kitchen lighting into a clear installation conversation. Focus on how you use the counters, the appearance you want, and the access available for the work.

You do not need to select a fixture before calling. Photos, approximate cabinet-section dimensions, and a list of priorities are a useful starting point. Leave wiring, equipment compatibility, and installation requirements for your electrician to evaluate.

1. Identify the counter areas

• Mark your main food-preparation area.
• Identify the coffee station and frequently used countertop appliances.
• Note corners or sections that remain dark with ceiling lights on.
• Mark breaks in the cabinet run, including windows and the range hood.
• Include any shelving or display areas in the proposed scope.
• Photograph the counter and cabinets from several ordinary viewing positions.

Kitchen or area

Cabinet sections to illuminate

Approximate section dimensions

Measure only where you can do so safely from an accessible position. Do not remove fixtures, covers, or electrical components to gather information.

2. Describe the result you want

• Better visibility while preparing food
• A softer setting for evenings
• A more consistent appearance across cabinet sections
• Less visible equipment or wiring
• Light that coordinates with existing pendants and ceiling fixtures
• Simple controls that everyone in the household can use

Most important improvement

Countertop and backsplash materials

Appearance concerns, including glare or reflections

If practical, ask to review a representative fixture in the kitchen before repeating the selection across every cabinet section. Look at it from sitting positions as well as standing at the counter.

3. Plan controls and daily use

• Decide whether counter lighting should operate separately from ceiling lights.
• Identify the preferred wall-control location.
• Decide whether you need dimming or only on/off operation.
• Discuss any desired app, voice, or automated control.
• Explain how you want to operate the lights without a phone.
• Ask for the fixture, power supply or driver, and control to be checked together.

Preferred lighting groups

Control location and type to discuss

Typical daytime and evening settings

For background on equipment selection, see our LED dimmer compatibility guide.

4. Review equipment, power, and access

• Save exact model information for any products already selected.
• Confirm who will purchase fixtures and associated components.
• Have the electrician assess the proposed power source and wiring route.
• Identify any countertop outlet use affected by a plug-in proposal.
• Ask where separate drivers or power supplies will be located.
• Confirm that equipment can be accessed for future service.
• Discuss existing cabinet, wall, and backsplash access limitations.
• Share the schedule if cabinet or backsplash work is planned.

Products already purchased or selected

Access limitations

Other contractors and project dates

Do not improvise concealed cord routes or electrical connections. Equipment location and installation should follow manufacturer instructions and applicable requirements.

5. Put the scope in writing

• Cabinet sections and fixture quantities
• Equipment supply and installation
• Wiring and any associated circuit work
• Controls and programming, if included
• Required permit or inspection coordination
• Access openings, cleanup, and finish-restoration responsibilities
• Approval process for changes outside the agreed scope

Included work

Work by others

Unanswered questions before approval

6. Walk through the finished lighting

• Operate every section and each control.
• Review the intended bright and low settings, if dimming is included.
• Look at the counter lighting from normal working and sitting positions.
• Ask about any flicker, uneven operation, or unexpected noise.
• Confirm equipment access and retain model information.
• Record any remaining work and the person responsible.

Items requiring follow-up

Equipment records kept in

Request a kitchen lighting estimate

Our under-cabinet lighting guide explains the planning choices. For lighting installation in Jacksonville, contact Bolt Electric or call (904) 701-3312.