Data, cameras, access control and AV systems often involve several vendors. Coordinating them before walls and ceilings close saves rework.
In this article
What low-voltage includes
Data and phone cabling, Wi-Fi, security cameras, access control, intercoms, audio-visual and interfaces with fire alarm.
Many vendors
The owner often hires some of these vendors directly. Define who does what in writing.
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Rough-in timing
Boxes, conduits and pathways must be in before drywall.
Above ceilings
Cable trays and supports need space in crowded ceilings. Coordinate with mechanical and electrical.
Door hardware
Access control needs power and cabling at doors. Coordinate with the door hardware supplier.
Power
Low-voltage equipment needs outlets and dedicated circuits in closets and racks.
Telecom rooms
Size, cooling and power for network rooms.
Testing
Test and label cables before turnover.
Getting started
Ask the owner for a list of every low-voltage system and vendor at the start of the project and add their rough-in dates to the schedule.
Common mistakes
Closing walls before rough-in, unclear owner vendor scope and no power at the rack.
Example
On a school renovation, the owner's security vendor arrived after drywall. Walls had to be opened for cameras and access control. On the next project, the contractor listed every owner vendor at kickoff and set their rough-in dates before drywall.
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Frequently asked questions
When should low-voltage rough-in happen?
Before drywall and ceilings close, at the same stage as electrical rough-in, so boxes, conduits and pathways are installed and inspected in time.