To choose a smart home integrator in Los Angeles, check that they hold an active California C-7 low voltage license, that they're an authorized dealer for the systems they're proposing, that their own team does the programming, and that they offer a real support plan after move-in. Then ask to see work on homes like yours. We're LA Techs, so we have a horse in this race, but these are the same questions we'd want our own family to ask anyone.
1. Are you licensed for this work?
In California, low voltage work (networks, audio, video, control, security wiring) falls under a C-7 license from the Contractors State License Board. Line voltage work like lighting control panels needs a C-10 electrical license, or a licensed electrician on the team.
You can look any contractor up for free on the CSLB website. Check that the license is active and the name matches the company you're signing with. (Ours is #1031050, C-7 and C-10, if you want to try it.)
2. Are you an authorized dealer?
Control4, Savant and Lutron sell through authorized dealers. A dealer gets factory training, access to support and warranty coverage that someone buying gear online doesn't. Ask which brands they're authorized for, and be a little wary if they're proposing a system they can't buy direct.
3. Are you a CEDIA member?
CEDIA is the trade association for home technology professionals. Membership isn't a license, and it doesn't guarantee great work, but it's a good sign a company takes the industry and its standards seriously. Ask what training their technicians actually have, too.
4. Who does the programming?
This is the question most people skip, and it's the one that matters most a year later. The programming is what makes the system feel simple: the scenes, the keypads, the "Goodnight" button. If it's farmed out to a freelancer, changes and fixes can take weeks.
Ask whether programming is done in-house, and who you call when you want a keypad changed.
5. What happens after we move in?
Every system needs care. Software updates, a new TV, a network that needs tuning, a family that wants the kitchen lights to work differently. Ask:
- Is there a support plan, and what does it cover?
- Can they see and fix problems remotely?
- How fast do they respond, and who answers the phone?
- What happens if my tech guy leaves the company?
A good integrator should be glad you asked. Ours is on our membership page.
6. Can you work from our architect's drawings?
On a new build or major remodel, the integrator should be involved during design, not after the drywall goes up. Ask whether they can mark up architectural drawings, coordinate with the electrician and interior designer, and deliver a clear low voltage plan for permits and pre-wire.
If you're an architect or builder, this is the question to ask first. It's how we work with trade partners.
7. Can I talk to someone with a home like mine?
A firm that's great at condos may not be set up for a 12,000-square-foot hillside estate, and the reverse is true too. Ask for references from projects of similar size and scope, and ask those clients how the company handled problems (because there are always problems).
Red flags worth noticing
Proposals with no line items. Brands nobody's heard of with no local support. Pressure to sign quickly. A company that can't tell you who'll be on your job. Any of those is reason to slow down.
Quick answers
Q: What license does a smart home integrator need in California? A: A C-7 low voltage license from the CSLB covers most smart home work. Lighting control and other line voltage work needs a C-10 electrical license or a licensed electrician.
Q: Does CEDIA membership mean an integrator is certified? A: No. CEDIA membership means the company belongs to the industry's trade association. Individual technicians can hold separate CEDIA certifications, so ask about them directly.
Q: Why does in-house programming matter? A: Programming is what makes the system easy to use, and it's what you'll want changed over time. In-house programmers mean faster changes and someone accountable.
Q: When should we bring an integrator into a new build? A: During design, ideally while the architect is still drawing. That's when wiring, equipment rooms and shade pockets are easiest to plan.
Want to see how we answer these? Read why clients pick us or call 213.354.8324.
