Outlet, Switch & Dimmer Services in Venice
From the historic Venice Canals to the bustle of Abbot Kinney Boulevard and the Ocean Front Walk, Venice homes face unique electrical demands. Shaffer Construction, Inc. specializes in residential outlet, switch, and dimmer upgrades that stand up to salt air, moisture, and the eclectic mix of architectural styles found here. Whether you're in a classic beach cottage off Rose Avenue, a canal-front bungalow, or a modern architectural residence near Windward Circle, we install devices that are safe, code-compliant, and built to last. Expect clean workmanship, smart technology options, and fast turnarounds—usually a few hours to one day. We offer clear pricing ($75–), help you choose the right materials for coastal conditions, and verify every circuit so your lighting and power are reliable from day one.
Our Work



Benefits
Modern Electrical Upgrades
We integrate modern controls that fit Venice homes today and tomorrow. From Lutron Caséta smart dimmers and Pico remotes to Decora Smart Wi‑Fi and 0–10V control for compatible fixtures, we design scalable systems that work with Apple Home, Alexa, and Google. We verify neutral availability for smart switches, provide low-profile screwless plates for modern aesthetics, and ensure dimmer-to-LED compatibility. Where needed, we prewire for future loads or add larger device boxes to support multi-gang configurations and heat derating.
Full Compliance and Safety
Shaffer Construction manages permitting and inspections when required, coordinating with LADBS and Venice Coastal Zone reviewers. Our installs follow the California Electrical Code with Los Angeles amendments, Title 24 energy requirements for lighting controls, and local weatherproofing standards. We ensure GFCI/AFCI protection, tamper-resistant (TR) receptacles in dwelling areas, and weather-resistant (WR) devices outdoors or in damp locations. Expect labeled circuits, proper box fill per NEC 314.16, and clear documentation to streamline inspections and HOA approvals.
Craftsmanship You Can Trust
Coastal environments demand better materials and techniques. We use commercial-grade receptacles and switches, nylon or screwless wall plates, stainless or coated fasteners, and in-use covers rated for wet locations. Connections are torqued to manufacturer specs, conductors neatly pigtailed, and anti-oxidant compound applied on aluminum where present using approved AlumiConn or COPALUM methods. We meter-test polarity and voltage drop, function-test GFCIs/AFCIs, and verify dimmer thermal performance in multi-gang boxes to ensure longevity and safety.
Personalized Electrical Solutions
Every Venice property is different. We start with an on-site assessment of device condition, box sizes, grounding, and circuit capacity. Then we help you choose the right mix of standard, USB, GFCI/AFCI, and smart controls based on room use and coastal exposure. For modern homes near Abbot Kinney, we often specify low-profile plates and smart scenes; for canal-front cottages, corrosion-resistant and WR devices take priority. We map out a clean, minimally invasive installation strategy around your schedule and finish materials.
What We Offer
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit in Venice to replace outlets and switches?+
Like-for-like replacements typically do not require a permit. If we add new outlets, relocate boxes, run new circuits, or do exterior work within the Coastal Zone, LADBS permits—and sometimes Coastal review—may be required. We’ll assess your scope on site and, if permits are needed, manage the application, inspection scheduling, and any HOA coordination to keep the project smooth.
What devices hold up best to Venice’s salt air and canal moisture?+
We recommend commercial-grade devices, nylon or screwless plates, stainless or coated screws, and weather-resistant (WR) receptacles in damp or exterior spots. For outdoor outlets, we install in-use covers and gaskets. Indoors, we select dimmers with proper derating for multi-gang boxes and choose components with corrosion-resistant contacts, which dramatically reduce failures in coastal environments.
Will my LEDs flicker with a new dimmer?+
LED flicker typically results from incompatibility between the dimmer and the lamp/driver. We match your fixtures to the correct technology—Triac, ELV, MLV, or 0–10V—and size the dimmer to the total load. During installation, we test for low-end trim performance and, if needed, adjust settings or recommend compatible lamps. This ensures smooth, quiet dimming without pop-on or shimmer.
Can you install smart switches in older Venice bungalows without a neutral wire?+
Many smart switches require a neutral, which older homes may lack at the switch box. We verify wiring paths; options include using a smart dimmer designed to work without a neutral, adding a neutral via accessible junctions, or selecting smart bulbs with a wireless remote. We’ll propose the cleanest, code-compliant solution for your walls and lighting goals.
I live in a condo near Ocean Front Walk. Can you work with my HOA and building manager?+
Yes. We frequently coordinate access, proof of insurance, and work windows with HOA boards and property managers. We follow building rules, keep common areas clean, and provide any documentation needed for approval. If the scope triggers LADBS permits or Coastal review for exterior work, we’ll handle that process and schedule inspections accordingly.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact us today for a free consultation and quote on your electrical project!
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