Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we hear most often — about getting started, protocols, the project process, support, and where we work.
Jump to a topic — or read straight through
We've grouped questions by what people typically need to know first. If your question isn't answered here, the fastest way to get a real answer is to share a few details about your project.
Planning your project
Timing, first conversations, and what helps us give you useful guidance.
When should we involve you in a project?
Earlier is better. For new builds and major renovations, we add the most value during architectural and electrical planning — before walls close. For existing homes, we can start anytime, but the available options depend on what infrastructure is already in place.
What does the first conversation look like?
A short discussion of your property, goals, and constraints. We share what's typically feasible at your scale, sketch a likely scope, and confirm whether the next step is a detailed proposal or a site visit. There's no obligation, and we're honest about projects that aren't a good fit for us.
Do you offer consultations before committing to a project?
Yes. For larger projects, we'll meet on-site or remotely to understand what you're trying to achieve and walk through realistic options. The goal is to make sure the proposal we put together reflects how you actually want to live or operate the property.
What information helps you give accurate guidance?
For homes: floor plans, the project type (new build / renovation / retrofit), timeline, and a sense of which features matter most. For commercial: building type, room or unit count, and how operations work day-to-day. We don't need everything — even a rough description gets us most of the way.
Platforms, brands, and what runs underneath
The technical foundations — explained without jargon.
Which protocols do you specify, and why?
We work with KNX, Z-Wave, Thread, Matter, and standard IP equipment — chosen per project. KNX for wired permanence in new builds; Z-Wave and Thread/Matter for wireless flexibility and retrofit; IP for everything that benefits from it. Most projects end up hybrid. See Products for details.
KNX vs Z-Wave vs Matter — which is best?
None is universally best. KNX is exceptional for new builds where reliability and longevity matter most. Z-Wave is mature and ideal for retrofit. Matter (over Thread) is the newest IP-based ecosystem and is increasingly viable for cross-vendor interoperability. The right answer for a specific project depends on the building, budget, and long-term plan.
Can you integrate equipment I already own?
Often yes. We evaluate existing devices for protocol compatibility, reliability, and long-term support before recommending a path. Some equipment is worth keeping; some is worth replacing to avoid future maintenance problems. We're honest about which is which.
Will my system still work if the internet goes down?
Yes. We design local-first systems so lighting, climate, scenes, and security keep working without internet. Cloud services are used for remote access and notifications — not core control. If the internet drops, the home keeps functioning normally.
Timeline, installation, and handover
How a project actually progresses from kickoff to operation.
How long does a typical project take?
For a single home, anything from a few weeks (retrofit / small upgrade) to several months (premium new build) — driven mostly by construction timeline rather than our work. Commercial projects vary more widely with building complexity. We give a realistic timeline in the proposal.
What does the installation process look like?
Design and specification → infrastructure (wiring, panel space, network) → device installation → commissioning and scene programming → documentation and handover. For new builds, the first stages coordinate closely with the electrical contractor and architect.
Do you provide documentation and handover?
Yes — always. You receive as-built documentation, a clear naming convention, an operator/owner guide for how the system works, and where applicable a runbook for property managers or facilities teams. The goal is that any competent integrator could take it over if needed.
Will you train me or my team to use the system?
Yes. We walk owners through scenes, schedules, and day-to-day controls at handover. For commercial projects, operations teams get a more structured training and a written runbook covering alarms, overrides, and routine adjustments.
After installation
Ongoing care, upgrades, and what to expect over the next decade.
What support do you offer after installation?
We offer both reactive support and proactive maintenance plans. Most premium homes benefit from a proactive plan with periodic health checks and updates — see Maintenance for details. Reactive support is also available for specific issues.
How long do smart systems typically last?
Well-designed systems on open protocols have a 10+ year lifecycle for the core platform. Individual wireless devices may need replacing earlier (5-8 years), but the supervisory system, wiring, and most KNX hardware lasts much longer. Good maintenance extends every component.
Can you take over a system someone else installed?
Often yes, particularly for systems on open protocols with reasonable documentation. We assess the platform, document any gaps, and propose a path forward. Some legacy or vendor-locked systems are harder to maintain economically — we're upfront about that.
When should I plan a major upgrade?
Two natural triggers: meaningful changes to the property (extensions, renovations, new energy infrastructure) and platform-level shifts in supported protocols (typically every 7-10 years). We flag both well in advance — you should never be surprised by an upgrade need.
Where we work
Smart Living Cyprus across homes, developments, and commercial properties.
Are you only for premium homes?
No. We work across a range of budgets and project sizes — but we are deliberate about scope. For smaller budgets we design a tight Baseline that delivers real value rather than a watered-down premium spec. The goal is always a system that's worth its cost.
Do you handle apartment buildings and developments?
Yes. We design repeatable standards for multi-unit projects — see Apartments & MDUs. The goal is consistent deployment across unit types and clean handover to property management.
What about hotels and Airbnb rentals?
Yes — this is a significant part of our work. See Hotels & Airbnb for what's typically included: guest scenes, smart check-in, turnover automation, property protection, and remote oversight.
Send us the details of your project
The clearest answers come from a short conversation about what you're building, your timeline, and your priorities. We'll come back with something specific to your project — not a generic brochure.