5 KEY QUESTIONS TO ASK A CONTRO4 DEALER BEFORE YOU INSTALL A SMART HOME SYSTEM

This guest post comes to us from Control4 Dealer, Pro Install AV in London, United Kingdom.
 
It may have taken a while, but after researching your options from some of the world's leading smart home brands, you've finally decided that Control4 home automation system is the way to go.
 
Now there's just one crucial question left to answer: Which Control4 dealer will you work with to supply, install, and ultimately maintain that system?
 
Clearly this isn't the kind of decision you should take lightly. When investing in a Control4 smart home, you’ll want every last detail to be spot on and the installation should be done perfectly the first time. You’ll need a Control4 dealer who combines expert know-how of the latest systems with exceptional quality service.
 
There's just one problem: At first glance, every installer you meet seems to promise you just that. How do you determine which one is truly best suited to work with? Easy. Spend some time getting to know each one by asking them these five important questions:

 

Are you CEDIA accredited? 

CEDIA (the Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association) is the globally recognized trade association for those who create and install smart home technology. That includes Control4 home automation specialists.
 
Not every company out there can boast CEDIA accreditation. To become approved, members must consistently prove that they meet strict high standards of customer service, quality workmanship, and cost-effective solutions. Naturally then, it pays to ask your potential dealer if they're accredited by CEDIA. If they are not, you may want to consider finding one that is.
 
If they are, that means you can rely on them to not only do a good job, but to do it on time, provide excellent service throughout the installation and, of course, do all of this without adding huge numbers to the cost of your Control4 installation.

Can I see past projects?

Before you let any company into your home, ask to see case studies of past projects and testimonials from previous clients to get a clear idea of the quality you can expect.
 
Case studies can also provide another huge benefit in the form of inspiration, which is particularly helpful if you’re not entirely sure on exactly what kind of Control4 home automation system you want. And visting dealer showrooms may also be beneficial to help get the creative juices flowing.

How much does Control4 cost?

Any leading home automation specialist will offer you a bespoke system tailored to meet the exact needs of you, your family, and your home. As such, Control4 costs are likely to vary from client to client. That said, there are some things you should check with your installer about before signing anything.
 
No hidden charges
Ask whether the price quoted includes absolutely everything, from the cost of the products themselves to installation charges and any post-installation support you've agreed to. Finding surprises on your final invoice can really take the shine out of getting that brand new system installed.
 
Best Price Guarantee
Remember, as with most things in life, 'cheap' is not something to be aspired to. Instead, your Control4 costs should represent value for money at a price within your budget. If they're too low, ask your dealer how they can afford to charge much less than their competitors. If they're too high, nobody could blame you for asking for a better deal.

Can you integrate other leading products, devices, and systems into my Control4 Installation?

What happens if you already have a home entertainment system installed in your property and now want to set that up to be powered by your Control4 system? Or if you're planning to integrate intelligent lighting control into your home at some point in the future?
 
Before you start your project then, ask whether your dealer has the expertise and experience integrating other consumer electronic products and brands into a Control4 system. They should be able to not only install your Control4 system, but also integrate all of your favorite devices so that you can enjoy one complete, bespoke system.

What happens if things go wrong?

With the perfect combination of a quality installation and Control4’s world-class technology, your system should function flawlessly long after it has been installed in your home. Yet there are times when unexpected problems do occur, or when you may need a little help making the most of your system.
 
That’s why it pays to ask your installer if they offer after-sales care and support packages, and of course, how much they cost. By investing in long-term support, you have the peace of mind that comes from knowing that no matter what happens, your new Control4 system is always in safe hands.
 
As CEDIA-accredited Control4 specialists, Pro Install AV guarantees world-class, bespoke installations, quality support, and no hidden fees. To find out more about how we can help you, or to determine the cost of your dream Control4 installation, contact us today on +44(0)20 7096 0078.