Modern construction and remodeling projects have reached a turning point. We are all more reliant on technology in our daily lives than ever before. So are your clients. Low-voltage technologies such as TVs, music systems, Wi-Fi, security systems, smart home, lighting controls, motorized shading, energy management and more are now common yet an often-overlooked aspect of the home’s overall design. Put another way, every home, no matter how simple or how “low tech” the clients are, will incorporate at least some technology.
The Home Technology Association (HTA) urges builders and remodeling contractors to proactively plan for their clients’ technology needs. To help with this, the HTA has created a one-page ‘Project Technology Assessment’ form and a new opt-in ‘HTA Technology Partner’ designation to set you apart.
The Project Technology Assessment form is meant to be used early, before getting framing, electrical & HVAC bids. When used early, this simple form is a game-changer to the construction process. Download it here (Note: the fillable PDF form can be used on a laptop or tablet, or, printed and handed out). The form will show you and your clients a menu of technology options, and once filled out, forward it to a qualified technology integrator, ideally one that is HTA Certified. Or simply call your technology integrator and have them consult directly with your clients to define the project’s technology needs and create documentation your subcontractors need to supply accurate proposals.
To help foster the best working relationship with a technology integrator, the HTA has established a set of guidelines that define a framework for a mutually beneficial partnership. If you agree to follow these guidelines, the Home Technology Association considers you a ‘HTA Technology Partner’.
The logo on this page was created for you to establish that you are a ‘technology proactive’ builder or remodeler that understands the importance of early home technology planning.* You may use the logo on your website and marketing materials. This will serve as a competitive advantage of your firm. Click the button below to opt in and receive a high-resolution logo.
HTA Certified technology integrators that have the ‘HTA Design Partner’ designation have agreed to abide by the following guidelines with the promise to carefully listen to your clients’ needs and advise them, not be a product pusher. When you review the guidelines, you will also see the vital project coordination documentation they can provide you and your team.
HTA Technology Partner Guidelines for Builders and Remodeling Contractors:
1 – Early Engagement
Engage your technology integrator early; before obtaining framing, electrical, and HVAC bids. The information provided by your technology integrator is necessary for framers, electricians, and HVAC professionals to accommodate any technology requirements and provide accurate proposals.
2 – Client Meetings
The home’s electronic systems define the user-friendliness, safety, and entertainment aspects of a home. Decisions are highly personal to each client. Therefore, for a technology integrator to make appropriate recommendations, it is vital that they meet with the clients directly and not work through an intermediary.
3 - Let Your Clients Decide
As above, every client’s values are different. Please do not influence them away from something they do want or into a technology that they do not want. For example, if a client wants a high-performance home cinema, let them.
4 - Quality Technology Integrators Often Charge for Design & Engineering Documentation
HTA Design Partner designated integrators can create design and engineering documentation based on the architectural plans. They will provide space-planning information and device placement drawings that specify where important electronic systems will be located for aesthetic collaboration.
These design drawings can specify speaker locations, TV locations, the wiring head-end, equipment locations, lighting & shading wiring panels, wall controls (keypads, touchscreens, etc.), surveillance / doorbell cameras, access controls, motorized shading locations, lighting fixture locations, Wi-Fi heat maps, include framing requirements, shade pocket requirements, and more. You can be consulted on the visually impactful technology items for your input to minimize visual disruption. With forethought, some of the home’s technology systems may become a notable feature of the home. Such design and collaboration work by integrators takes many hours to create and many will charge a design fee, much like other projects consultants do.
5 - Transparent Fees
If any fees are being paid from the integrator to your firm, the client is to be informed. To see ways builders and remodeling pros can be compensated for bringing a technology integrator to your project, see item #11 on this page.
If you agree with these guidelines, click here to notify the HTA and you will be provided the official HTA Technology Partner logo. If you currently do not have a great technology integrator partner, you will find qualified integrators who meet the HTA's stringent quality guidelines using this integrator finder tool. If there is not a certified integrator near you, notify the HTA here and they will research who are the most reputable integrators in your area.
Other Builder & Remodeling Contractor Resources
1 – share the HTA’s brand-agnostic technology budget estimator to help your clients establish a realistic installed budget range for their home. Note: this may be embedded in your own website if desired.
2 – subscribe to the HTA’s “Home Technology Design” newsletter by clicking here, designed to keep your finger on the pulse of home technology trends and design-centric products.
3 – peruse the HTA’s Resource Guide by clicking here to learn about some of the industry’s best home technology brands
* The Home Technology Association will be launching a new section on this website soon, designed to promote architects, interior designers, builders, remodelers, and building design professionals through a free, no-strings attached listing. We will reach out to call opted-in HTA Technology Partners once this section is ready.
Yes, my company would like to have the 'HTA Technology Partner' designation
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