Every client now expects WiFi that works in every room, from the garden office to the loft conversion. The cheapest time to make that happen is before the plasterboard goes up. Here's when to bring a networking specialist into your project, and why it saves you time later.
1. At the design stage, before first fix
Data cabling is cheap to run in open stud walls and expensive to add once rooms are finished. A quick look at the drawings lets us mark out:
- where the broadband line comes in and where the router and network cabinet should live
- ceiling points for WiFi access points, so coverage is even rather than strongest next to the router
- network points for TVs, desks, CCTV, doorbells and smart heating
If we get involved at this point, your electrician can run the cables alongside first fix, with no extra visit and no chasing walls later.
2. When the build is large, long or awkward
Thick stone walls, steel frames, underfloor heating, foil-backed insulation and long single-storey extensions all block WiFi. One router won't cover them. If you're working on any of these, plan for wired access points from the start.
3. When there are outbuildings
Garden offices, annexes, garages and holiday lets need a proper link back to the main house. That can be buried cable or a point-to-point wireless link. It's much easier to put a duct in the trench while it's open than to dig again.
4. When the client works from home or runs a business
Video calls, card machines, CCTV and booking systems all need a reliable connection. In rural South Devon, that may mean a backup line, 4G or Starlink. We can advise before the client moves in, rather than after the first dropped call.
5. At handover
We fit and configure the equipment, test coverage in every room and give the client one point of contact for support. You hand over a finished house and don't get calls about the WiFi six months later.
How we work with builders and electricians
- We review drawings and give a cable schedule your electrician can follow.
- We can do first-fix data cabling ourselves or leave it to your team.
- We supply and install business-grade UniFi WiFi and network equipment at second fix.
- We support the homeowner directly once they've moved in.
Got a project coming up? Send us the drawings or give us a call, and we'll tell you what's needed before first fix. Find out more for trades or get in touch.