For Pacific Palisades families rebuilding after the January 2025 fire, the road back is long. Among the many decisions ahead, technology can feel like a detail. But one of the advantages of building new is the chance to plan every speaker, camera, access point, and shade from the start, which is much easier and more affordable before the drywall goes up.
When to bring in a low-voltage integrator
Ideally during design, and no later than framing. Your architect and general contractor plan for electrical, plumbing, and HVAC; low-voltage systems (networking, audio, video, security, and control) deserve the same attention. Bringing in an integrator early means equipment locations, conduit, and power are planned rather than squeezed in later.
Prewire checklist
- Networking: Cat6 to every TV, office, and bedroom, plus ceiling locations for Wi-Fi access points on every floor and outdoors.
- Fiber and conduit: conduit from the street to your equipment location, and between floors, so future upgrades don’t require opening walls.
- Central equipment location: a ventilated closet or rack with dedicated power for networking, audio, and video equipment.
- Security cameras: wiring at entries, the garage, driveway, and perimeter, plus a video doorbell.
- Audio: in-ceiling speakers for main living areas, kitchen, and primary suite, and outdoor speakers for patios and pools.
- TVs and theater: wiring at every TV location, and a full theater or media room plan if you want one.
- Shades: low-voltage wiring or power at windows where you want motorized shades.
- Lighting control: plan keypad locations with your electrician if you want scene-based lighting.
- Access control: wiring for gate intercoms, keypads, and smart locks.
Think about what you had, and what you’d change
Many homeowners start by listing what their previous home had. That’s a good start, but technology has changed a lot. A rebuild is the right time to ask: Where did Wi-Fi drop out? Which rooms needed better sound? Where would cameras have helped? What would you want to control from your phone?
Protecting the site during construction
Temporary security cameras with remote viewing can help you keep an eye on progress and protect materials while the home is being built.
How we help
We work with homeowners, architects, and builders to design and install structured wiring, networking, security, home automation, lighting and shades, and home theater, from planning and prewire through final programming.
Ready to get started?
Call 1-800-913-2115 or contact us to schedule a free consultation. Based in Menifee, we serve homes and businesses across Southern California.