Q. I am coordinating all of the contractors for my major home remodel and I am totally confused as to who should come in and when. As soon as I mentioned that I was having a separate home electronics company involved, it seemed to throw a monkey wrench into the works. Please help! - Sean, Providence, RI

A contractor once told me that the construction of the home would go wonderfully if it was not for all the people involved. Coordination of different organizations is extremely difficult. Let me first say that every project has different demands on the trades and their timing. The architect and builder should have a very clear idea of where each organization fits into their process for your specific home. However, there are generalities involved. These are: design, foundation, rough carpentry, plumbing, mechanicals, electrical, low voltage, insulation, drywall, paint, woodwork/cabinetry, paint some more, final install/trims (all trades). 

Now, what really is most important is the design. Your Electronic Systems Contractor must work with the design team at the beginning of the project. They will need to be coordinating with the electrician, HVAC, architect, builder, designer, lighting consultant, security provider, and others to make sure they are not creating a redundant design as well as the most efficient and practical design. So do your due diligence and determine who you will have as your trusted advisor. After you have chosen the company that is best for you, they should be providing design documentation that can be coordinated with all of the trades. 

Technically, the electrician comes in slightly before the ESC during what is called the prewire of your home. However, upfront coordination between these trades is a must. As well, the interaction of the trades on your project is dependent on what systems are going to be interfaced together. So, if you are not doing motorized shades for instance, the designer may not be needed to consult on the textiles.

Let me also discuss an issue that is probably happening in your project that must be resolved. It sounds like you brought your ESC late into the game. The contractor sees this company as a client-supplied consultant or trade which is outside the scope of their work. Technically, they have no responsibility to coordinate your company you just hired. Because of this, all his trades do not feel the need to coordinate. You will need to work this out with your contractor. Some will be fine but aggravated at the extra time they will need to coordinate and others will want coordination or percentage fees.

Unfortunately, we are not installing just “stereo systems” anymore. At one point in my business I told an architect that I wanted the process to be as simplified as McDonalds. He said, “but John, you are not installing cheeseburgers.” We are using many ingredients with other businesses to make the cheeseburger. To have it taste right, pick the right chef with a recipe of the right ingredients.

About the Author:
John Baumeister - President, Baumeister Electronic Architects

As a renowned industry expert, John Baumeister has been educating Chicago's leading architects and designers on lifestyle technologies for years. His mantra of providing world-class service for world-class clients has empowered Baumeister to become the area's most trusted system integrator.