Smart home technology for developers and housebuilders
Specify infrastructure as standard and offer features as upgrades. A good cabling and network backbone adds little to build cost and keeps every buyer's options open.
Specify infrastructure as standard and offer features as upgrades. A good cabling and network backbone adds little to build cost and keeps every buyer's options open.
The principle: infrastructure first
Buyers differ in what they want automated, but almost all of them want fast, reliable connectivity. The most cost-effective approach for developers is to install a strong cabling and network backbone in every plot, then offer smart features as packages or upgrades. Cable is cheap during construction and expensive afterwards.
Regulations that already apply
- Gigabit broadband. Since 26 December 2022, new homes in England must be built with gigabit-ready physical infrastructure and, subject to a cost cap, a gigabit-capable connection (GOV.UK).
- EV charging. Since 15 June 2022, Approved Document S has required charge points for new homes in England with associated parking, with exceptions (Planning Portal).
- Electrical work must comply with Part P in dwellings in England.
These cover the connection into the home and the charger. Neither covers the network inside the home, which is where buyers notice the difference.
A sensible standard specification
- A central data cabinet with Cat6 cabling to ceiling access point positions, TV positions and home office locations.
- Cable to external camera and doorbell positions.
- Neutrals and deep back boxes at switch positions, so smart lighting can be added later.
- Power at window heads in principal rooms for future motorised blinds.
- Heating zoned room by room, with controls that can be upgraded.
Upgrade packages buyers understand
- Connected: professionally installed Wi-Fi access points and a video doorbell.
- Comfort: smart heating zones, smart lighting in living areas, scenes.
- Premium: whole-home lighting control, blinds, multi-room audio, security and a configured app.
Avoid lock-in for your buyers
Buyers increasingly ask whether a system ties them to one manufacturer or a subscription. Open, locally controlled platforms such as Home Assistant avoid both, and are easier to support over the life of the home. See why local control matters.
Handover and support
A smart home that a buyer cannot use generates snagging calls. Each plot should be handed over with documentation, account transfer to the buyer and a short walkthrough. We can provide aftercare directly to buyers, which takes support calls off the developer.
How we work with developers
We offer design, specification, installation and aftercare through our trade partnership, and we work alongside your electrical contractor where that suits the programme. For architects specifying individual homes, see our architects' guide.
Common questions
Does smart technology help sell new homes?
It can make a development stand out, but we do not claim a specific price premium. Fast, reliable connectivity and a home that is ready for upgrades are what most buyers value.
Can your designs follow our electrician's programme?
Yes. We can produce first fix drawings and schedules for your contractor, then complete second fix and commissioning.
Who supports the buyer after completion?
We can, directly, through our aftercare plans. Buyers own their systems and are not obliged to subscribe.
Related services
Sources
- GOV.UK: New build connectivity information for developers
- Planning Portal: Approved Document S
- Planning Portal: Approved Document P
Last reviewed 1 November 2026. Prices ex. VAT unless stated.
More guides
An architect's guide to specifying a smart home
Involve the integrator at concept or spatial coordination stage. Smart systems need space, cable routes and coordination with lighting, joinery and M&E, all of which are cheaper to resolve on paper.
Smart technology for landlords, HMOs and student accommodation
In multi-occupancy buildings, smart technology earns its place through keyless access, controlled heating, early warning of leaks and damp, and a network residents can rely on.
CCTV for businesses: UK rules and best practice
Businesses using CCTV are data controllers. You will usually need to pay the ICO data protection fee, display signs, limit what you record and respond to requests for footage.
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