Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best home automation system for new build homes in the UK?
The best home automation system for UK new builds is one that is hardwired, pre-configured off-site, and installable by any qualified electrician without specialist integrators. Hardwired systems built on KNX, the global home automation standard, offer the highest reliability because they do not depend on Wi-Fi or cloud services. Baulogic is designed specifically for this use case, removing the cost and complexity of traditional smart home systems while delivering professional-grade control over lighting, heating, shading and security.
What is KNX home automation and why does it matter?
KNX is the world's leading open standard for home and building automation, supported by over 900 manufacturers and 15,000 certified products. KNX systems are hardwired, operate independently of Wi-Fi, and are used in some of the world's largest and most complex buildings. For UK homeowners and developers, choosing a KNX-based system like Baulogic means long-term reliability, future-proof compatibility, and no reliance on any single manufacturer's cloud or app.
How much does home automation cost in a UK new build?
Home automation costs in UK new builds vary based on property size, system scope, and the level of integration required. Premium systems traditionally start from £15,000 and can exceed £100,000 for fully integrated luxury homes, often requiring specialist integrators. Baulogic offers a more cost-effective approach by pre-configuring systems off-site and allowing standard electricians to install them, removing specialist labour costs from the project. For an accurate quote on your specific project, request a design consultation through our contact form.
Does home automation increase the value of a UK property?
Yes. Research by Samsung found that UK buyers and renters will pay up to 7.7% more for smart, energy-efficient homes. Home automation is also recognised as a mortgageable property feature when installed as part of the building fabric, meaning the cost can be financed within the property's mortgage rather than treated as an aftermarket purchase. Hardwired systems integrated at the build stage hold their value better than retrofit wireless products.
What is the difference between hardwired and wireless home automation?
Hardwired home automation uses physical cables to connect devices, while wireless systems rely on Wi-Fi or radio protocols. Hardwired systems offer significantly higher reliability, faster response times, no dependency on internet connectivity, and longer lifespans. They are installed during the building phase and become part of the fabric of the home. Wireless systems are easier to retrofit but suffer from connectivity issues, battery replacements, and gradual obsolescence as devices lose manufacturer support.
What is the difference between Baulogic, Control4, Crestron, and Loxone?
Control4, Crestron, and Loxone are established home automation platforms that typically require specialist integrators to design, install and program each system on-site. This adds significant cost and creates long-term reliance on the original integrator for support. Baulogic takes a different approach by pre-configuring systems off-site to your design, allowing any qualified electrician to install the system in a single visit after a free 90-minute training course. The system is UK-built, UK-supported, and uses the open KNX standard.
Can home automation be installed in an existing UK home?
Hardwired home automation systems like Baulogic are designed for installation during new build or major renovation projects, where cabling can be run within the building fabric. For existing UK homes without major works planned, wireless or hybrid solutions are more practical. The best time to install hardwired home automation is during first fix electrical work in new builds, self-build projects, full renovations, or substantial extensions.
Do you need an internet connection for home automation to work?
Hardwired KNX systems like Baulogic do not require an internet connection to function. Core home automation features including lighting, heating, shading and scene control operate fully offline, ensuring reliable performance even during internet outages. An internet connection is only needed for remote app access when away from home, voice assistant integration, and software updates.
What can home automation control in a UK home?
Home automation can control lighting, heating, cooling, underfloor heating zones, blinds and curtains, security cameras, intercom systems, access control, audio-visual equipment, and energy monitoring. Baulogic specifically integrates lighting, heating, shading, security and energy management into one unified system controlled through an app, wall switches, or voice assistants.
Home automation is particularly worthwhile in UK self-builds because the cost of installation is dramatically lower when integrated during the build rather than retrofitted later. Self-builders benefit from improved energy efficiency, individual room comfort control, future-proofing through expandable systems, and enhanced property value at resale. The technology should be specified at the design stage to allow proper cable routing and electrical planning.
How long does it take to install home automation in a new build?
With traditional smart home systems, installation and on-site programming can take weeks of specialist integrator time spread across the project. Baulogic systems are pre-configured and tested off-site before delivery, meaning a qualified electrician can install the system across first fix and second fix as part of the normal electrical schedule with no additional commissioning delays. The home is fully operational on the day of installation.
Can home automation improve a home's EPC rating?
Yes. Home automation can contribute to a higher EPC rating by enabling individual room heating control, automated lighting management, and intelligent scheduling that reduces energy waste. Multi-zone heating ensures rooms are only heated when occupied, while automated blinds and shading reduce solar gain in summer and heat loss in winter. These efficiency gains are recognised in EPC assessments when documented as part of the building's energy management strategy.
Who designs and installs home automation in the UK?
Traditional home automation is designed and installed by specialist Custom Installation Professionals who handle every stage from design to programming. Baulogic operates differently. Our in-house team handles all design and pre-configuration, while installation is carried out by any qualified electrician working on the project. This removes the need for specialist integrators and gives developers and self-builders full cost certainty from the outset.
What support is available after home automation is installed?
Baulogic provides ongoing remote technical support to every homeowner with a Baulogic system. This includes software updates, configuration adjustments, and troubleshooting handled remotely by our UK-based team. Developers and electricians are not responsible for post-installation support, removing the maintenance burden from project teams and giving homeowners direct access to expert help.
Is home automation a mortgageable feature in UK new build homes?
Yes. When installed as part of the building fabric during construction, hardwired home automation becomes a fixed feature of the property and is therefore included in the property's mortgage valuation. This is a key advantage over wireless smart home products, which are considered removable consumer electronics rather than fixtures. Buyers can finance the cost of home automation as part of their mortgage when it is built into the home from the outset.





















