Before you recommend an installer, decide where your role ends

A customer asks whether you know someone who can install smart lighting. You do, so you offer to make an introduction. A week later, the customer asks what time you will arrive to check the work.

That is an easy misunderstanding to prevent. If you only want to connect two people, say so before the introduction: “I can put you in touch. Please agree the scope, installation price and handover directly with the installer.” Get the customer's permission before sharing their contact details, and explain what information you intend to pass on.

Coordinating the scope is a bigger commitment. You might help the two sides compare an equipment list, room requirements and the controls the household wants to keep. Agree who checks the exact models and installation conditions. Passing along a shopping list does not establish that every device will work together.

Checking the work on site is another job again. Someone needs to agree what will be inspected, who can approve changes and who signs the handover. If that is outside your skills or available time, leave it with an appropriately qualified person rather than letting the customer assume you have accepted it.

For a lighting shop or renovation business that wants to begin with introductions, a clear, limited role is a useful starting point. Keep a short record of the permission and introduction. If a referral fee is being discussed, settle eligibility, payment timing and any conflicts in a written agreement; do not infer those terms from an informal introduction.

The useful question is simple: after the two sides have met, which tasks are you actually willing and equipped to own? Tell the customer that answer before the project gets moving.