The Homeowner’s Guide to Smart Homes in the UK

How to make your home smarter, safer, and more energy-efficient.

What is a Smart Home?

A smart home uses connected devices and systems you can control remotely or automate. From heating that adjusts itself based on the weather, to lights that switch on when you arrive home, smart tech can make life easier, safer, and cheaper to run.

You can control most smart home devices via:

  • A smartphone app

  • Voice assistants (Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit)

  • Central smart hubs

Smart Home Benefits

  • Convenience – control heating, lights, and appliances from your phone.

  • Energy savings – reduce bills with smart heating, lighting, and appliances.

  • Security – smart cameras, doorbells, and locks for peace of mind.

  • Accessibility – voice control and automation help those with mobility issues.

  • Future-proofing – adds value to your property and appeal to buyers.

Popular Smart Home Systems

1. Smart Heating

  • Thermostats like Nest, Hive, Tado

  • Zoned heating control for different rooms

  • Smart radiator valves

2. Smart Lighting

  • App and voice-controlled bulbs (Philips Hue, LIFX)

  • Motion-activated lights

  • Colour-changing options for mood or security

3. Smart Security

  • Video doorbells (Ring, Eufy, Nest)

  • Wireless CCTV systems

  • Smart locks with keyless entry

4. Smart Appliances

  • Fridges that track contents

  • Ovens you can pre-heat remotely

  • Washing machines with energy-saving schedules

5. Whole-Home Systems

  • Apple HomeKit, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Samsung SmartThings – integrate multiple devices into one platform.

How Much Does a Smart Home Cost?

Smart Feature Typical Cost (installed)

Smart thermostat £200 - £300

Smart radiator valves (per room) £60 - £100

Smart lighting (per bulb) £15 - £50

Smart security camera £150 - £300

Video doorbell £100 - £250

Smart lock £200 - £400

Whole-home integration system £1,500 - £5,000+

Tip: You can start small (a single thermostat or doorbell) and expand gradually.

Do I Need Planning Permission for Smart Home Tech?

In almost all cases, no planning permission is required for smart home devices inside your home.

You may need approval for:

  • External cameras and sensors in listed buildings or conservation areas

  • Major rewiring if part of larger works (requires Building Regulations approval)

Building Regulations and Smart Homes

Smart devices themselves don’t usually need approval, but any associated works do.

  • Electrical safety – rewiring and new circuits must comply with Part P (electrical safety).

  • Energy efficiency – smart heating and controls can help meet Part L requirements.

  • Accessibility – smart tech can support compliance with Part M (accessibility).

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Mixing systems that don’t talk to each other

  • Poor Wi-Fi coverage (vital for reliable smart tech)

  • Forgetting about data security (always use secure passwords and updates)

  • Overcomplicating with gadgets you won’t use

Homeowner Smart Home Checklist

  1. Decide what you want to improve (comfort, energy, security)

  2. Start small with one or two devices

  3. Check compatibility with your chosen hub/assistant

  4. Budget for installation and ongoing app/subscription costs

  5. Future-proof by choosing widely supported systems

Thinking about adding smart tech to your renovation or extension?

I offer a £150 on-site consultation to help homeowners integrate smart systems into their design and ensure compliance with building regulations.

To Book Your Consultation: Email at studio@natureworksdesign.co.uk or call me on 0203 304 2338.