You can always add a smart home afterwards. Wireless switches, battery sensors and modules behind existing switches make that possible. But if you are renovating or building anyway, there is one moment when it is far cheaper and neater: before the walls are closed.
After that, every cable costs a chase, plaster and paint. Before that, it costs a few metres and half an hour.
What to put in while you can
A neutral wire in every switch box. Many smart switches and switch modules need one. Older houses often lack it behind the switch, and that limits your choice later. During the build it is a trifle.
Deep wall boxes. A module behind the switch needs room. With deep boxes it fits, without the switch sticking out of the wall.
Network cable to the places that matter. To the ceiling on each floor for an access point, to the TV spot, to the desk and to outdoor cameras. Wi-Fi over a cable always beats Wi-Fi over Wi-Fi.
Power at the windows for blinds or screens, even if you are not fitting them yet. An empty box with a cable in it costs almost nothing.
Room in the meter cupboard. For the hub, a network switch and a P1 reader for the smart meter. Plan a socket and a network point in the meter cupboard; that is the heart of the system.
A plan for the heating. Thermostat, underfloor heating manifold and heat pump need to be able to talk. Ask the installer which connection (OpenTherm, for example) is possible before you choose.
What can safely wait
The devices themselves. Lights, sensors, smart plugs and the automations can be added step by step, even years later. As long as the foundation is right, you never have to break anything to extend it. A good order is in starting a smart home: what to buy first.
Builder and smart home at one table
The mistake we see most is that the contractor and the smart home installer first meet when the plaster is dry. That is why we work with Bouwbedrijf Kurt in Best: in a renovation or new build we plan the smart home into the building plan, so cabling and boxes are right from day one.
What a full installation looks like is in our own house. Building or renovating in the Eindhoven region? See smart home installation or ask for a quote.