A new system. Keep what still works.

Start by understanding what is already there

Even a frustrating system contains useful information. Model labels, apps, network details and current behaviour help us work out which devices can be reconnected, kept as they are or replaced. Resetting everything too early can erase those clues and remove controls that are still working.

We first identify what each room depends on and who owns the relevant accounts. Access, essential lighting and climate controls receive a different migration sequence from a decorative lamp or non-critical sensor.

Keep the parts that still work well

Some Zigbee devices can move to a suitable coordinator. Some vendor hubs can remain as local bridges. Cloud-only Wi-Fi products may stay temporarily or be replaced when their risk and value justify it. Conventional loads can often remain while only the controlling module changes.

The aim is a reliable home that you control—not replacing good products simply to make every device use the same technology.

• Keep reliable devices that still suit the home
• Connect stable existing systems where there is a dependable way to do so
• Re-pair compatible devices only after the new mesh is ready
• Replace unsupported products in a sensible order

Make sure someone can maintain the new system

Home Assistant can reduce lock-in and bring several systems together, but the server, backups and software still need to be looked after. The new setup should not depend on one person's private account or an unlabelled computer hidden under the television.

At handover, we show you where everything runs, how to recover it, which products still need the internet and who will handle future changes.