The main worry — and why it is misplaced
People who have just finished a renovation fear one thing: that a smart home means chased walls, dust and re-hung wallpaper. For a wireless system that is not the case. The main work happens inside the existing back boxes: the key is removed, a relay the size of a matchbox goes in behind it, the key goes back. Nothing changes on the outside.
What goes in leaving no trace at all
Lighting control — a relay in the back box. Air conditioner and TV — an IR module that simply sits on a shelf or clips to a wall. Leak sensors — on the floor under the sink and behind the toilet. Gas detector — near the kitchen ceiling; it only needs a socket. Motion, door, window and temperature sensors — adhesive pads or two screws. Underfloor heating — the thermostat swaps for a smart one in the very same frame. A robot vacuum connects over the network with no installation at all.
What needs a small intervention
Curtains. The drive needs power near the rail, and if there is no socket there, one has to be run. It is usually done discreetly along the top of the wall or hidden behind the pelmet, but it is the one operation that can slightly touch your finish. We always discuss this before starting rather than presenting it as a fait accompli.
What is genuinely not possible
A full wired Buspro system — that needs cable routes, which means major building work. One more limitation: if there is no neutral in the back box, some relays will not work. There are alternatives, but they impose limits on load type, and the engineer verifies this during the visit before promising anything.
How long it takes
A typical apartment takes a few days. You live at home throughout: we do not cut water or power for long, and there is no construction dust. By the end you have your scenes, the app, a wall tablet and a family that knows how to use it.