Timing is everything
Most of what makes a smart home work is wiring, and wiring is easiest while the walls are open. By the time drywall goes up, adding cable gets slower and messier. Ask these questions early, ideally before framing is finished.
Who is doing the low voltage?
Is it the electrician, a builder's standard package, or a specialist? A dedicated low-voltage and smart home installer will plan Wi-Fi, TVs, audio and cameras together and support them after you move in. See working with builders.
What does the standard package include?
- How many network drops, and where?
- Are ceiling access point locations included?
- Is there cable at every TV location, and conduit to the main TV?
- Any speaker wire, camera cable or shade power?
- Where does all the wiring end up, and is that space ventilated?
Can I upgrade before drywall?
Ask for a walkthrough with the low-voltage installer after framing. That's when you can add TV locations, speakers, cameras, keypads and shade power for a fraction of the cost of adding them later. See the Control4 pre-wire guide.
Lighting and keypads
If you want smart lighting or Control4, keypad locations and box sizes need to be planned with the electrician before rough-in. Deciding later can mean replacing boxes.
Shades
Motorized shades on large windows look best with shade pockets and power planned in framing. See shade pockets.
Documentation
Ask for a map of every cable and where it ends up. It's invaluable for you and for anyone who services the house later.