Pre-Drywall Technology Checklist

This is a planning aid, not an inspection certificate or code checklist. Qualified trades and local authorities determine compliance.

Planning & scope

• Define rooms, intended uses and future changes.
• Confirm who is responsible for low-voltage plans and installation.
• Determine permit, electrical and building-code requirements locally.
• Mark proposed equipment closet and access panels.
• Set a budget for cable, devices, labor and contingency.

Network & Wi-Fi

• Identify every Ethernet drop on the floor plan.
• Plan ceiling access point locations with wired backhaul.
• Reserve power, ventilation and working clearance for network gear.
• Plan the internet service entry point and conduit pathways.
• Leave appropriate cable slack and labeling at terminations.

Cameras & security

• Identify entrances, exterior paths and other coverage goals.
• Check privacy, legal and neighbor-facing camera considerations.
• Plan camera cabling and accessible, protected mounting locations.
• Decide where the recorder and backup power could live.
• Plan wired door/window contacts and motion sensor locations if needed.

Home automation & entertainment

• Plan switches, controls and neutral availability as applicable.
• Choose wired runs for TVs, media centers and audio zones.
• Review doorbell, gate and garage integration options.
• Consider conduit or pull paths for future upgrades.
• Confirm interoperability and vendor lock-in considerations.

Pre-drywall walkthrough

• Verify rough-in paths and separation from electrical wiring.
• Confirm firestopping, cable ratings and support methods per code.
• Check cable labeling against the schedule.
• Test every run using suitable equipment and record results.
• Photograph walls, studs, cable paths and terminations.
• Save as-built drawings, test records and equipment information.

Notes & open questions

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