Renovation is the best time for smart home infrastructure – rough-in costs almost nothing when walls are open. Here’s what to do in 2026.
Must rough-in during renovation:
- CAT6 ethernet to every room (WiFi never fully replaces wired for performance-critical use)
- Conduit from panel to exterior for future EV charger or solar
- Conduit in walls for motorized blind/shade wiring
- In-ceiling speaker wire during ceiling drywall phase
- Extra conduit runs between floors for future unknown needs
- Doorbell transformer wiring at front door (for video doorbell)
- Conduit to exterior soffit corners for future security cameras
Smart thermostats (install now):
Ecobee and Nest deliver 10-15% HVAC savings through occupancy learning. Ecobee integrates with Enbridge demand-response programs. Cost installed: $300-$500.
Smart lighting:
Smart switches (not smart bulbs) are the correct choice for Ontario renovations. Lutron Caseta is the most reliable ecosystem in the GTA market. Cost: $50-$120/switch installed.
ROI perspective:
Smart switches, thermostats, and rough-in infrastructure add $3,000-$8,000 to a full renovation – a rounding error on a $100,000 project and infinitely cheaper than retrofit after walls are closed.
Smart home and renovation planning at home.renovation.reviews