Full renovation: the technology to plan before you start

When to decide

Before the electrical design is finalised. Technology affects the panel, conduits, back boxes and suspended ceilings. If it's decided once work is well under way, the options narrow.

What should always be provided

• A central point for the rack, ventilated and accessible, where the fibre arrives.
• Network cable to every room and to the ceiling for WiFi.
• Spare empty conduits between floors and to the outside.
• Space in the electrical panel to expand.

This is cheap during the build and allows any later expansion.

Decisions by system

• Network and WiFi: number and position of access points, outlets per room, TVs.
• Home automation: what you want to control (lights, blinds, heating) and with which system. Even if it isn't installed now, the right cabling keeps the door open.
• Lighting: separate, dimmable circuits by zone.
• Blinds and curtains: power at every opening.
• Heating and cooling: sensors per room and control of manifolds or units.
• Security: alarm, cameras, video intercom and front door lock.
• Water: solenoid valve on the main supply and positions for leak sensors.
• Energy: pre-installation for solar, EV charger and metering.
• Audio: built-in speakers, if wanted.

In phases, without losing anything

If the budget won't stretch to everything, prioritise like this:

1. Conduits, cabling and panel: what can't be added later.
2. Network and WiFi: used from day one.
3. The basics of automation and security.
4. The rest later, on the same foundation.

Coordination

Electrician, plumber, heating engineer, joiner and interior designer need the same drawing. A diagram showing every outlet, conduit and switch stops the switch box ending up behind a wardrobe.

In flats and older buildings

• Check where the fibre comes in and where the rack can go.
• Use service shafts and suspended ceilings for vertical runs.
• Upgrade the intercom using the building's existing wiring.
• Thick walls: more WiFi access points than expected.

Before closing the walls

• Photograph every wall and ceiling with the conduits visible.
• Label every cable at both ends.
• Certify the network cabling.