Smart home technology has moved well beyond novelty gadgets. Edinburgh homeowners are increasingly asking us to install smart lighting, heating controls, security systems and EV chargers as part of broader electrical upgrades. Here's a practical guide to what's possible, what requires a qualified electrician, and what it costs in Edinburgh.
Smart Home Installations That Require a Qualified Electrician
Some smart home technology can be self-installed — but anything involving new circuits, consumer unit work or fixed wiring must be carried out by a qualified electrician in Scotland. This includes:
Smart Lighting Systems
Hardwired smart switches and dimmers (Lutron, Hue, LIFX) require proper wiring and neutral wire provision. Many Edinburgh properties — particularly tenements — have older wiring without neutral wires at switch positions, requiring remedial work.
Smart Heating Controls
Smart thermostats (Nest, Hive, Tado) can often be self-installed, but multi-zone systems and underfloor heating controls require qualified installation. We install and commission smart heating systems across Edinburgh.
EV Charging Points
A dedicated 32A circuit from your consumer unit is required. Must be installed by a qualified electrician. See our full guide to EV charger installation in Scotland.
Security & CCTV Systems
Hardwired CCTV, alarm systems and smart doorbells with dedicated power supplies require proper electrical installation. Wireless systems can often be self-installed.
Home Automation Hubs
Whole-home automation systems (Control4, Savant, KNX) require specialist installation and commissioning. We work with leading home automation platforms across Edinburgh.
Smart Home Installation Costs in Edinburgh
| Installation Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Smart thermostat installation (Nest/Hive) | £120 – £200 |
| Smart lighting (per room, hardwired) | £150 – £350 |
| EV charger (7kW smart) | £700 – £1,000 |
| Hardwired CCTV system (4 cameras) | £600 – £1,200 |
| Multi-room smart lighting (whole flat) | £800 – £2,500 |
| Full home automation system | POA |
Smart Home in an Edinburgh Tenement — What to Know
Edinburgh tenements present specific challenges for smart home installations:
- Older wiring often lacks neutral wires at switch positions — required for most smart switches
- Solid stone walls make cable routing more complex and expensive
- Listed building consent may be required for external installations (CCTV, EV chargers)
- Shared areas require factor or owners' association consent
- Wireless smart home systems (Zigbee, Z-Wave) can often work around wiring limitations
Edinburgh Areas We Cover for Smart Home Installations
Smart Home Installation in Edinburgh
From smart lighting to full home automation — our Edinburgh electricians design and install smart home systems that work.