ECN_SB2026_opt

February 2026

smart buildings

TEWKE

Tewke launches Tap, a new smart light switch to simplify smart home adoption

Cover.indd 1

B.E.G.

B.E.G. introduces a new DALI-2 two-channel presence detector

An ECN Supplement

CEDIA

A special look at the launch of the Smart Home Assurance Program from CEDIA

02/02/2026 09:14

23-24 SEPTEMBER 2026 NEC BIRMINGHAM, UK

A GAME CHANGING EVENT FOR THE ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING INDUSTRY Covering everything from Lighting and Wiring Accessories to EV and Renewables.

ECN Live! 2026 is an industry game changing trade show for electrical contractors, electricians, buyers, specifiers, and key stakeholders in the electrical contracting sector. Gain valuable insights into the most valuable aspects of electrical contracting, such as lighting, circuit protection, cable management, HVAC, fire safety, EV, renewables, solar and more! ECN Live! will be co-locating with EI Live!, the UK’s only dedicated smart home show, an already established show, now in its 15th year. Given the synergy between these two markets, electrical contractors and electricians will gain valuable knowledge about the world of smart home integration and add another string to their bow as an installer. Don’t miss this innovative co-located event that defines the standard for connection, knowledge sharing, and solutions tailored for today’s electrical professionals.

GET INVOLVED

Call the show team on +44 (0) 1634 673163

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30/01/2026 14:00

INTRODUCTION

SMART TECHNOLOGY FOR AN INCREASINGLY SMARTER WORLD

W

elcome to the latest ECN supplement, which this time around is dedicated to the latest innovations and developments within the world of smart buildings.

There’s undoubtedly a growing synergy between the electrical contracting sector and the world of smart buildings – so much so in fact, that ECN Live!, our brand new game-changing exhibition, is co-locating with EI Live!, the renowned AV and smart home show, later this year. The opportunities for contractors to expand their skillsets by transitioning into the world of smart technology is unquestionably one of the more exciting and lucrative propositions available for contractors right now, and there’s every belief that those who take the leap of faith will be rewarded in the long-term.

Smart tech is here to stay too, and homeowners are constantly demanding

smarter and more intelligent features throughout their living space – and many newbuilds are starting to implement many ‘smart’ innovations as standard.

As a result, there’s an incredibly strong opportunity for contractors to be proactive and lead the way by offering customers these smart products – a message which is reflected throughout the range of editorials we’ve packed into this special supplement.

We hope you enjoy the content throughout, and we very much hope it entices you to explore all the options available to you as it relates to the implementation of smart technology. Please do join us at the NEC Birmingham on 23-24 September for the combined ECN Live! and EI Live! exhibitions to see this synergy come to life – I promise you won’t be disappointed. Head to ecnliveshow.com for all the information you need, and see you there!

CONTENTS… charts the rollout of HomeLINK 4 Aico sensors across Selwood Housing’s portfolio, tackling damp and mould while meeting new legal duties in the process explains how its Tap product 6 Tewke is bridging the gap between conventional light switches and high-cost smart systems has introduced a new DALI-2 7 B.E.G. two-channel presence detector to the UK market. ECN looks at exactly what’s involved the smart building sector 8 As continues to grow, electrical Simon Rowley, Group Editor

Our next supplement will be published alongside the April 2026 issue and will focus on EV & Renewables. To get involved, or for more information, please contact Kelly Byne at kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com.

The editor and publishers do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors nor do they accept responsibility for any errors in the transmission of the subject matter in this publication. In all matters the editor’s decision is final. Editorial contributions to ECN are welcomed, and the editor reserves the right to alter or abridge text prior to the publication.

Published monthly by All Things Media Ltd., Suite 14, 6-8 Revenge Road, Lordswood, Kent ME5 8UD. Tel: 01634 673163 Fax: 01634 673173 Overseas Subscription Rates: Europe £60.00; Rest of World £70.00 Copyright © 2026. All rights reserved.

Printed by Micropress, Reydon Business Park Fountain Way, Reydon, Southwold, IP18 6SZ.

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contractors are uniquely positioned to capitalise. Aldous Systems is here to help explains why 11 Theben presence-driven control is one of the few ‘smart’ measures occupants are noticing for the right reasons Moore of CEDIA discusses 12 Steve the challenges and opportunities that come with the transformation towards smart homes

GROUP EDITOR: SIMON ROWLEY T: 01634 673163 E: simon@allthingsmedialtd.com

CEO: DAVID KITCHENER T: 01634 673163 E: david@allthingsmedialtd.com

ASSISTANT EDITOR: JOE PECK T: 01634 673163 E: joe@allthingsmedialtd.com

MANAGING DIRECTOR: IAN KITCHENER T: 01634 673163 E: ian@allthingsmedialtd.com

SALES DIRECTOR: KELLY BYNE T: 01634 673163 E: kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com

ACCOUNTS T: 01634 673163 E: susan@allthingsmedialtd.com

STUDIO: MARK WELLER T: 01634 673163 E: mark@allthingsmedialtd.com @ElecConNews

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Circuit Protection

December 2025 | 3

30/01/2026 17:09

AICO

BUILDING ON PROGRESS Aico charts the rollout of HomeLINK sensors across Selwood Housing’s portfolio, showing how real-time data, resident apps, and proactive monitoring are helping tackle damp and mould while meeting new legal duties.

I

n 2023, Selwood Housing launched a pilot project with Aico, installing HomeLINK Environmental Sensors and Gateways to better understand indoor environments across its housing stock. This initial collaboration marked a shift towards a more data-driven, resident-focused approach to property management.

Today, Selwood Housing’s partnership with Aico has evolved to follow new legislation, sector pressures, and Selwood Housing’s ongoing commitment to providing safe, healthy homes across its more than 7,000 properties.

Scaling up Aico’s IoT technology is now fully embedded within Selwood Housing’s property management systems. Gateways and Environmental Sensors are installed in all homes where significant damp or mould has been identified, ensuring a consistent and proactive approach to monitoring.

To date, Selwood Housing has: • Over 250 properties actively monitored through HomeLINK, with a plan to install in an additional 100 properties in 2026 • More than 2,000 connected devices across its housing stock, including Environmental Sensors, fire alarms, and carbon monoxide alarms Continued year-on-year growth • as IoT becomes integral to its repairs, compliance, and resident-engagement strategy • Sensors installed in line with BS 40101

Adapting to Awaab’s Law The implementation of Awaab’s Law in England has brought significant change across the sector, introducing strict timeframes for social landlords to investigate and address hazards such as damp and mould. This has made Environmental Sensors even more essential for social housing providers. For Selwood Housing, these changes have required a shift in operational focus, including:

4 | February 2026

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Smart Buildings

• The need for continuous, accurate data is higher than ever.

• Property surveyors now undertake more front-loaded investigations and reporting to meet statutory deadlines.

• Post-repair monitoring validates improvement or identifies early warning signs if conditions deteriorate.

Previously, quarterly visits were scheduled for up to 12 months following repairs.

Now, Aico’s sensors provide the majority of the ongoing oversight. This ensures that Selwood Housing can monitor property conditions remotely, validating the success of repairs while quickly detecting if further action is required.

The insights provided by HomeLink play a critical role in demonstrating compliance, prioritising caseloads, and ensuring each home remains safe long after the initial intervention.

Robert McFerran, Senior Damp & Mould Surveyor, comments, “The monitoring system has made a real difference to how we identify issues.

We receive weekly reports highlighting properties at higher risk of damp and mould, cold home risk, excess heat, or poor indoor air quality.

“Recently, a report flagged a steady rise in humidity in a home. The Damp and Mould Team discovered the levels had been increasing over a couple of weeks, suggesting a ventilation issue.

After visiting the property, we found the bathroom extractor fan had a fault. Once repaired, the humidity levels returned to normal. This proactive approach helps us manage risks effectively and support customers before issues escalate.”

The HomeLINK app A core part of Selwood Housing’s strategy is not just responding to problems, but empowering residents to prevent them from recurring. The HomeLINK Resident App plays a key role in this approach.

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“Introducing the app has been a smooth and positive process,” Robert continues.

“Engagement has been strong, and customers value having a simple, clear way to see what’s happening in their homes.”

The app supports education, awareness, and behaviour change, helping residents become active partners in maintaining a healthy home. One Selwood Housing resident notes, “The app has been helpful. It’s easy to understand and shows what’s going on without guesswork. The whole experience has been straightforward and stress-free.”

The HomeLINK Resident App provides: • Healthy home indicators — real-time temperature, humidity, and CO2 levels • Tailored recommendations — personalised advice based on sensor data Damp & mould alerts — early warnings • with practical prevention tips • Fire and CO alarm reminders — prompts to test life safety devices Trusted viewers — secure access • for family members, carers, or support networks.

A continued journey of growth and innovation Selwood Housing’s work with Aico has moved far beyond the 2023 pilot project.

What began as a simple product installation has grown into a comprehensive, technology-enhanced approach to property management. One which supports compliance, empowers residents, and enables genuinely proactive maintenance.

As Selwood Housing continues to expand IoT monitoring across its housing stock, its partnership with Aico remains rooted in collaboration, continuous improvement, and a shared goal of healthier homes and improved well-being for every resident.

Aico, aico.co.uk

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30/01/2026 14:34

Scan to book a HomeLINK Demo

Connected Home Solution Real Time Insights into Every Home you Manage A proven, scalable solution designed for social housing providers - reducing risk, improving compliance, and delivering ROI.

The HomeLINK Connected Home Solution can help to: Identify Damp & Mould at the source Strengthen Compliance & Asset Management Support Net Zero targets Improve Fire Safety

Environmental Sensors collect data.

The Gateway connects it.

HomeLINK turns the data into insights.

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21/01/2026 13:31

TEWKE

INTRODUCING TAP BY TEWKE Tewke explains how its Tap product is bridging the gap between conventional light switches and high-cost smart systems.

T

ap, by UK smart energy company Tewke, is a new smart light switch designed to simplify smart home adoption.

Presenting an opportunity to centralise a home’s smart technology in an affordable and extremely effective way, Tap opens a valuable new business stream, backed by UK engineering and local technical support.

With its competitive pricing, Tap offers contractors an accessible entry point into the premium smart lighting sector.

Installation has been engineered with the trade in mind; each Tap switch takes just minutes to install and is easy to set up. It’s compatible with existing infrastructure, requiring no rewiring, and can be installed without a neutral cable, making it suitable for almost any home.

Imagine a home where lighting, energy use, and even the health of rooms all work together, intuitively and effortlessly. Tap is

Tewke Tap The intelligent light switch Fit smarter. Delight your customers.

Earn more.

Tewke.indd 6

the central platform for connected living, blending seamlessly into a user’s day.

With Tap, users can create the perfect ambience for every moment, across every room. Users can automate lighting via the Tewke app, setting up room ‘Scenes’ and whole-home ‘Habitats’, with lights switching on and off automatically depending on time of day or through motion detection. The Tap app also enables control from any location.

Tap provides real-time energy cost tracking, helping users to shift the use of energy-heavy appliances – such as dishwashers, washing machines, or EV chargers – to much lower-cost times of the day. With a variable tariff, this significantly reduces bills.

Tap features a range of built-in sensors that help users understand and improve the health of their environment. It provides data on temperature, air quality, CO2, and humidity, the leading causes

of discomfort and mould in homes. Tap acts as an early warning system, and with health history insights on the app, home health can be tracked over time.

Tap updates are automatic, with new features being added over-theair effortlessly. In 2026, the TewkeAI voice-controlled home assistant (powered

by Google Gemini) will be introduced, as well as smart meter integration to enhance Tap’s energy usage insights.

Contractors that sign up as a Tewke Registered Partner are currently being offered a Tap switch at no cost, so that they too can enjoy the Tap experience.

They will be provided online training, receive specialist technical support from Tewke’s UK-based team, and be supplied qualified end-user leads.

For more information and to sign up, visit the website below.

Tewke, tewke.com/register

Tap is the intelligent light switch that makes smart simple. It’s fast to fit, easy to support and loved by customers. A fraction of the cost of comparable integrated smart lighting systems and created to fit in naturally with every home’s style, Tap is beautifully designed and ensures the lighting is always just right.

Register as a Tewke partner to unlock new income, UK-based support and qualified leads. Visit tewke.com/register or scan the QR code to sign up today, and get a Tap switch at cost.

30/01/2026 14:35

B.E.G.

B.E.G. BRINGS DALI LIGHTING CONTROL TO THE UK B.E.G. has introduced a new DALI-2 two-channel presence detector to the UK market which is designed for rooms and areas that require the lighting to be controlled as two circuits of lighting by a two-gang retractive switch.

The DACO Duo automatically adjusts light output to deliver consistent illumination levels throughout the day

T

he DACO Duo sensor, launched by the manufacturer for 2026, allows the lights to be switched on and off, dimmed up and down, and daylight-linked for energy efficiency. It is aimed at commercial and public buildings such as offices and buildings with small to medium rooms.

The new sensor enables the independent control of two DALI lighting channels from a single device, says the leading provider of intelligent lighting solutions.

By continuously detecting both occupancy and ambient daylight, the system automatically adjusts light output to deliver consistent illumination levels throughout the day, helping to reduce unnecessary energy consumption without compromising the user experience.

A key feature of DACO Duo is its integrated broadcast technology, which allows it to function as a standalone solution without complex commissioning.

This means a single brightness sensor can control two light strips evenly and reliably, reducing system complexity and commissioning time.

The approach is intended to “support projects where straightforward installation and dependable operation are priorities,” according to Dan Glynn, Sales Director at B.E.G. UK. Additional features include soft start and when timing out, it would dim back to a reduced level, and after another period of time, switch off.

The DACO Duo is a master sensor, and additional slaves can be added to a single room operation to give a wider range of occupancy coverage. Typical applications include education, healthcare, hospitality, retail, and industrial environments.

Dan adds, “The B.E.G. DACO Duo sensor has been developed to meet the

needs of the UK market, where there is strong demand for lighting control solutions that are both intelligent and easy to install and easy to commission.

By allowing two DALI channels to be controlled from a single sensor without complex setup, we are giving contractors and specifiers a practical way to deliver energy-efficient lighting without adding unnecessary complexity.

“B.E.G. has a long-standing reputation for developing high-quality sensors and lighting control systems. With a focus on innovation, reliability and ease of implementation, the company supplies solutions for a wide range of building types across Europe and beyond. The introduction of DACO Duo further strengthens B.E.G.’s offering to the UK market, reflecting its continued investment in products that support modern, efficient building design.”

B.E.G., beg-luxomat.com

beg-luxomat.com

DALI-LINK DALI Multisensor

DALI pushbutton module

DALI Power supply

LARGE OFFICE SOLUTION ■ Addressable multi-master Lighting Control System ■ Supports DALI and DALI-2 luminaires ■ Ideal for retrofitting ■ Super flat multisensor available ■ Simple, intuitive operation ■ Free Bluetooth app with 2 functions: - Scene control for end customer - Commissioning tool for installers

BEG.indd 7

30/01/2026 14:35

ALDOUS SYSTEMS

UNLEASHING SMART BUILDING POTENTIAL WITH ALDOUS SYSTEMS As the smart building and home automation sector continues to grow, electrical contractors are uniquely positioned to capitalise on this dynamic and lucrative market. Aldous Systems, a value-added distributor, is here to help you seize the opportunity.

W

ith its extensive expertise, tailored training programmes, and an unmatched range of products from industry-leading brands, Aldous Systems is committed to empowering you to integrate smart solutions seamlessly into your residential, commercial, and hospitality projects.

Opening sensor

Vertical awnings

Dimmer lights

Ventilation

Gateway Air conditioning

Rolling shutters

Movement sensor Climatic sensors CO sensor

Capitalising on smart building opportunities

Sunscreens Alarm

Smoke sensor

For electricians, the move into smart home installations is a natural progression. You’re already a trusted contractor for your customers, and integrating smart technologies offers a compelling way to upsell while enhancing the value you bring. From lighting and shading to intercom systems and building management, the opportunities are endless and can be as simple or as complex as you and your customer wish.

By working with Aldous Systems, you can provide your customers with: • Seamless control via platforms like Yubii Home or Elan Control • Tailored lighting solutions with Rako Lighting, Axion LED Lighting or Eelectron KNX • Advanced intercom and access control • Superior AV experiences with AVProedge, Episode and Pulse Eight • Robust power management solutions, including Furman Power and Wattbox.

These solutions not only elevate your projects, but also allow you to build long-term relationships with clients who will rely on your expertise to maintain and upgrade their systems over time.

Why choose a value-added distributor?

Unlike wholesalers who operate on a supply-and-go basis, a value-add distributor invests in your success. It can act as an extension of your team, offering: • Product expertise: An in-depth knowledge of cutting-edge technologies ensures you’re recommending and installing the right solution for your clients.

8 | February 2026

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Smart Buildings

Garage door

Lights on/off Household appliances

Thermostatic valves Audio and TV system Smart Plugs

Flooding sensor Smart thermostat Music

Gate

Irrigation Intercom Smart Lock

Outdoor lights

• Customised training: From in-person manufacturer-certified courses to online sessions via the Aldous Academy, Aldous Systems provides the skills you need to stay ahead.

• Aldous Systems’ experienced technical team is available to guide you through system designs and troubleshoot challenges, even post-installation.

• Access to leading brands: Aldous Systems has curated a portfolio of industry-leading brands to deliver complete, integrated solutions.

Who is Aldous Systems?

Established in 2002, Aldous Systems has built a legacy as a trusted partner for smart home, AV, networking, and security solutions across the UK. Based in Aylesbury, the company is proud to offer far more than a traditional wholesaler or trade counter outlet. It serves as a true value-added distributor, working alongside its customers to deliver bespoke support that goes beyond simply supplying products. Whether you’re a seasoned installer or looking to branch into smart home technology for the first time, Aldous Systems can guide you every step of the way.

READY TO GET STARTED? Aldous Systems is here to support your journey into smart buildings and home automation. Partner with the company to unlock the full potential of this fast-growing sector and future-proof your business. With its unmatched expertise, comprehensive training, and industry-leading product range, Aldous Systems is confident you’ll see the difference a value-added distributor can make.

• Explore its website at aldoussystems.co.uk to learn more • Visit the Aldous Academy at aldousacademy.co.uk for online training resources and tutorials • Stay up-to-date with the latest news and tips by following the company on its social media channels, including LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube Get in touch today to find out how Aldous Systems can help you deliver smarter solutions for your customers. The company can elevate your business to new heights in the smart building industry.

Aldous Systems, aldoussystems.co.uk

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30/01/2026 14:36

Aldous Systems is a distributor of over 40 brands of networking, audio/ video and smart home equipment exclusively to trade buyers.

Established in 2002 with a commitment to excellent customer service and a strong engineering background in networking products.

Nice (Elan) Residential and Commercial Control system Access Control, Intercom & Surveillance Solutions Rako Lighting Control Multiroom Audio Systems Multizone Video Distribution Nice (Elan) Residential and Commercial Control system Access Control, Intercom & Surveillance Solutions Rako Lighting Control Multiroom Audio Systems Multizone Video Distribution

Tools and Testers Data Networking and Structured Cabling Bulk Cable and Connectivity Power Management and Surge Protection KNX Building Management Tools and Testers Data Networking and Structured Cabling Bulk Cable and Connectivity Power Management and Surge Protection KNX Building Management

and many more...

Aldous Systems is a distributor of over 20 brands of networking, audio/ video and smart home equipment exclusively to trade buyers.

Established in 2002 with a commitment to excellent customer service and a strong engineering background in networking products.

The heart of your new smart home experience

Monitor: Control: and many more...

• Doors • Light • Windows • Heat • TemperatureLtd is a distributor of over 20 brands of • Aldous Shade Systems(Europe) • audio/video Flood • networking Power and equipment exclusively to trade buyers.

• Co2/Fire • Gates Available now from Aldous Systems Surveillance • Established Audio in•2002 with a commitment to excellent customer service

www.bit.ly/YubiiHome and a strong engineering background in networking products.

Unit 21 Stocklake Industrial Park, Aylesbury, HP20 1DQ. tel: 01296 719582 web: www.aldoussystems.co.uk email: sales@aldoussystems.co.uk training: www.aldousacademy.co.uk

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Your Ultimate Smart Home Remote With swipe, scroll and touch controls, the HR40 provides an unparalleled user experience for control of media, lighting, climate, security, surveillance, and more.

Learn more, visit www.bit.ly/ELANTraining or scan the QR code.

30/01/2026 09:45

UK suppliers of Niko Home Control to UK Electricians and Installers

• Niko training and technical support • Lighting, heating, shading and ventilation control CEDIA accredited We offer training to experienced smart home professionals as well as those just starting out in the industry.

WINNER

Independent Wholesaler/Distributor of the Year

Moss Technical t: 01656746766 e: niko@mosstech.co.uk w: homecontrol.uk.com Untitled-9 2

30/01/2026 16:03

THEBEN

THE SMART UPGRADE THAT PAYS BACK IN EVERY BUILDING Here, Theben explains why presence-driven control is one of the few ‘smart’ measures occupants are noticing for the right reasons.

S

With presence detection, the building responds to people, not habits

mart buildings can feel like a leap: extra kit, extra commissioning, and the worry you’ll inherit every “it’s not working” phone call.

Presence-driven control is the rare upgrade that usually goes the other way. It’s straightforward to install, easy to explain, and it quietly fixes one of the biggest causes of wasted energy in any space: equipment running when nobody’s there.

Picture the sites you’re on every week: A corridor where lights stay on all day because nobody “owns” the switch.

A stairwell that’s either dark or overlit.

A welfare area where extract fans run longer than they need to. A meeting room that’s booked on the system but empty in real life. Presence detection tackles all of these with the same simple principle: the building responds to people, not habits.

It’s also one of the few “smart” measures occupants notice for the right reasons. Lighting comes on when you arrive, not when you find a switch. It stays on while you’re there, not until a timer decides you’ve stopped moving. Add daylight linking and you avoid that familiar complaint: lights running at full output on a bright afternoon. For the client, that feels like comfort and quality. For you, it usually means fewer callbacks.

The difference between “smart” and “annoying” is nearly always in the setup.

Sensor placement matters, and aiming into doorways, across glazing, or at heat sources can cause nuisance switching.

Open areas behave better when you zone them, so someone at the edge of a room isn’t punished by a detector that can’t “see” them. Hold times should match the task: quick for corridors, more forgiving for WCs and meeting spaces, with sensible overrun where extract is involved.

And while this is a smart buildings conversation, it translates perfectly to homes too. The same approach that improves a classroom can make a hallway safer at night, or stop heating and lighting empty rooms in a busy household. If you’re working with a structured control platform (KNX-based systems such as Theben’s LUXORliving are one example), presence becomes a clean input that can influence lighting, ventilation, and set-back modes without turning the job into an IT project.

Presence-driven control isn’t a gimmick; it’s a practical win that scales from domestic to commercial, and earns its keep every day.

For more, visit theben.co.uk/ presence-motion-detection.

Theben, theben.co.uk

Turn a 3-Bedroom Semi into a Fully Integrated Smart Home for Just £2,500!

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30/01/2026 16:04

CEDIA

INTRODUCING CEDIA’S SMART HOME ASSURANCE PROGRAM The smart home landscape is evolving rapidly, and with it, the expectations of homeowners, developers, and technology professionals. As someone who has spent many years in the industry, Steve Moore of CEDIA has seen firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with this transformation – which are reflected throughout this article.

P

According to data from estate agents, people are more likely to buy a home with a fast internet connection

eople assume that their smart tech will work easily and reliably when they install it and demand for home technology continues to grow. The number of connected devices in a typical home are projected to grow 50-fold by 2030, yet many builders and developers find themselves navigating a complex maze when it comes to installing and supporting these systems.

They need more than just hardware.

They need assurance that the money they spend to incorporate technology will be worthwhile, and the devices their residents bring with them (and will buy in future) will work seamlessly and consistently, even as their homes and lifestyles change.

Findings from the consumer report, Smart Moves – The Role of Technology in New Homes, underscore the value of this approach: 63% of respondents would prefer a CEDIA-certified professional to handle their technology installations, and nearly half are more likely to choose a home accredited by CEDIA or a similar body.

We already know from Rightmove, Zoopla, and others that people are more likely to buy a home with a fast internet connection. Taken together, this is a clear call to action for integrators and developers to work together, leveraging recognised standards to deliver what homebuyers want.

It is for this reason that I’m excited about the launch of the CEDIA Smart Home Assurance Program.

The number of connected devices in a typical home are projected to grow 50-fold by 2030

What the Assurance Program delivers At its core, the Smart Home Assurance Program offers a structured, reliable certification system. It is an initiative that not only makes it easier for specifiers and volume homebuilders to have the right tech installed in their new homes, but it also creates an opportunity for integrators to build relationships with property developers and certify and support the next generation of connected homes.

Unlocking new opportunities for integrators The programme introduces a new role for CEDIA members: the Smart Home Assessor. This isn’t just a title; it’s an opportunity to expand service offerings and build lasting relationships with property developers. Builders and developers pay a low fee for the review of their wiring plans, and assessors are paid for their expertise as they witness site installations and ensure compliance with programme standards.

It’s a chance to nurture some valuable new relationships, generate a little additional revenue while delivering real value through third-party certification, quality assurance, and ongoing support.

Beyond the initial certification, assessors may be called upon to provide

12 | February 2026

Cedia.indd 12

Smart Buildings

electricalcontractingnews.com

@ElecConNews

troubleshooting, technology upgrades, and consultations – helping homeowners and property managers get the most from their investments. The programme encourages a cycle of continuous improvement and partnership, ensuring CEDIA integrators are seen as providing the thought leadership at the heart of the smart home ecosystem.

Join the programme Candidates must be CEDIA members, hold either a CIT or IST certification, and possess a valid CSCS or ECS card, such as the Home Technology Integrator card. This demonstrates that those certifying smart homes are truly at the top of their field.

CEDIA is hosting a number of regular training courses, so keep an eye on the website for more details. Visit cedia.org/ smart-home-assurance-programmeassessor for more.

CEDIA, cedia.org

/electricalcontractingnews

@ecn_magazine

electrical-contracting-news-ecn

02/02/2026 08:53

Begin your journey home at www.cedia.org/join

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02/02/2026 10:17

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AR TUBE

elegance and comfort using this ED tube, featuring a water ripple to diffuse light evenly, the rippled beams, creating a visually soothing ining brightness and clarity

In essence, it’s lighting engineered not just to brighten spaces, but to reveal them exactly as nature intended.

| LED MODULES Our tru-colour LED modules are engineered to deliver CRI97+, placing them among the highest colour-rendering LEDs available on the market today.

This means they reproduce colours with outstanding accuracy, clarity, and consistency, closely matching the quality of natural daylight.

• True-to-life colour rendering • Enhanced reds and warm tones • Improved visual comfort • Consistent, reliable quality SEE MORE

ARC-TC-X1L-MR11

ARC-TC-22-9W

ARC-TC-X2L-9W

ARC-TC-X3L-11W

TRIAC, DALI or 0-10V Dimming

Drakes Court, Unit 4, Eagle Road, Plymouth, Devon, PL7 5JY United Kingdom info@arc-led.co.uk | www.arc-led.co.uk

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info@arc-led.co.uk | www.arc-led.co.uk

30/01/2026 14:02

23-24 SEPTEMBER 2026 NEC BIRMINGHAM, UK

BIG NEWS IN THE AV & SMART HOME SECTOR! EI Live! the UK’s top trade show, teams up with ECN Live! for an all-new event experience. This unique collaboration promises unparalleled insights and opportunities in a unified venue.

The residential AV and home automation industries have relied on EI Live! as a primary event for 14 years, but as the market grows and overlaps with electrical contracting, there is an opportunity to bridge these industries. To address this, EI Live! is re-locating to the NEC Birmingham for its 2026 event and will run alongside ECN Live! This joint exhibition creates a collaborative space for AV and smart home professionals to engage directly with electricians and electrical contractors, fostering synergy across these interconnected markets.

GET INVOLVED

Call the show team on +44 (0) 1634 673163

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