Rough In Smart Home/Networking
This is your last chance to run low-voltage wiring before the walls close up. Pre-wiring for ethernet, speakers, security cameras, and smart switches now costs a fraction of retrofitting later—and opens up technology options for years to come.
Quick Summary
Typical cost
$500-$2,500
Time needed
4-8 hours
Professional help
DIY possible or low-voltage contractor
Why This Step Matters
Smart home technology is no longer optional—it's expected. Future buyers will want (or assume) ethernet connectivity, smart lighting capability, and integrated audio/video. Pre-wiring during construction costs $50-$100 per drop; retrofitting after drywall costs $200-$400 per drop plus potential wall damage.
Don't Skip This
Even if you don't plan to use smart home technology now, running empty conduit to key locations costs almost nothing and allows for easy wire pulls later. Future you will thank present you.
Essential Pre-Wiring Categories
Ethernet (Cat6 or Cat6a)
Wired ethernet provides faster, more reliable connectivity than WiFi. Essential for home offices, streaming devices, gaming, and WiFi access points.
- Home office: 2 drops (one for computer, one for phone/other)
- Living areas: 1-2 drops near TV/entertainment center
- Bedrooms: 1 drop each
- Ceiling: 1-2 drops for WiFi access points (central locations)
Why Cat6/6a? Cat6 supports 10 Gbps at shorter distances; Cat6a handles 10 Gbps up to 100 meters. The cost difference is minimal ($30-$50 per 1,000 ft), and you're future-proofed for 10+ years.
Speaker Wire (In-Ceiling/In-Wall Audio)
Distributed audio lets you play music throughout your home from invisible speakers. Pre-wire now even if you don't install speakers immediately.
- Wire type: 16-gauge or 14-gauge, 2-conductor (for stereo: 4-conductor)
- Placement: Center of room for single speaker; 1/3 from walls for pairs
- Home theater: Plan for 5.1 or 7.1 surround (5-7 speakers + subwoofer)
Modern alternative: Run Cat6 to speaker locations instead. Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) speakers are increasingly popular and more flexible.
Security Camera Pre-Wire
Run cable to exterior camera locations. Even if using wireless cameras, having power and optional ethernet makes installation easier and more reliable.
- Best option: Cat6 to each location (PoE provides power + data)
- Locations: Corners of structure, entry doors, garage, driveway view
- Height: 8-10 feet (out of easy reach but good viewing angle)
Pro tip: Run two Cat6 cables to each exterior camera location—one for the camera and one spare for future devices (motion sensors, etc.).
Neutral Wires for Smart Switches
Most smart switches require a neutral wire to operate. Older homes often lack neutrals at switch boxes. Your new addition should have them everywhere.
- • Verify with electrician that all switch boxes include neutral
- • Standard in new construction per code, but confirm
- • Enables any smart switch brand without compatibility issues
- • Allows dimmers, motion sensors, and timers
Important: This isn't additional wiring—it's ensuring your electrician pulls the neutral to every switch box instead of leaving it bundled in the ceiling fixture box.
The Structured Wiring Panel
All your low-voltage wiring should "home run" to a central location—a structured wiring panel. This is typically a metal enclosure in a utility area, closet, or basement.
Panel Contents
- • Network switch (for ethernet distribution)
- • Patch panel (organized ethernet terminations)
- • Power strip for network equipment
- • Coax splitter (if running cable/antenna)
- • Modem/router (ideally)
- • Security system hub
Location Requirements
- • Near electrical panel (power access)
- • Central to minimize cable runs
- • Climate-controlled (not in attic/garage)
- • Accessible for maintenance
- • Room for future expansion
- • Adequate ventilation for heat
Pre-Wiring Cost Estimates
| Item | DIY Cost | Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Cat6 drop (per location) | $25-$50 | $75-$150 |
| Speaker wire pair (per room) | $15-$30 | $50-$100 |
| Camera pre-wire (per location) | $25-$50 | $75-$125 |
| Structured wiring panel | $100-$300 | $200-$500 |
| Typical addition (10-15 drops) | $400-$800 | $1,000-$2,500 |
Compare to $200-$400 per drop for retrofit after drywall—pre-wiring saves 50-75%.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I run low-voltage wiring myself?
Yes. Low-voltage wiring (ethernet, speaker wire, coax) doesn't require a license in most areas. The main skills needed are drilling holes, pulling cable, and terminating connections. Plenty of YouTube tutorials exist. Just coordinate with your electrician to avoid running parallel to high-voltage wiring.
Do I really need wired ethernet with modern WiFi?
For most use cases, WiFi 6/6E is adequate. However, wired ethernet provides lower latency (important for video calls and gaming), consistent speeds without interference, and dedicated bandwidth. It's also essential for devices that need maximum reliability—security systems, primary work computers, streaming devices.
What's the minimum I should pre-wire?
At minimum: 1-2 Cat6 drops per room (at TV/desk locations), one ceiling drop for WiFi access point, and conduit to exterior camera locations. This base package costs $300-$600 DIY and covers most future needs. Speakers and home theater can be added based on your specific plans.
Should I use conduit instead of individual cables?
Conduit is excellent for future-proofing—you can pull new cables as technology evolves. Use flexible conduit (smurf tube) for interior runs and rigid conduit for exterior. The main downside is higher material and labor cost. At minimum, run conduit to locations where you're uncertain about future needs.
Ready for the Next Step?
With all rough-in work complete—electrical, plumbing, HVAC, insulation, and low-voltage—you're ready to close up the walls. The next step is hanging and finishing drywall, which transforms your addition from construction site to finished space.