You're planning the construction of your new home in Longueuil. You've chosen the site, perhaps even started drawing up the plans with your contractor.

But have you thought about home automation?

Many homeowners add it after the house is finished. That's a shame, because that's when it costs the most. According to construction experts in Quebec, integrating home automation after construction can cost up to 30 % more than planning everything from the outset.

The good news: if you integrate home automation right from the planning stage, you'll save money, improve comfort and increase the resale value of your home.. By 2025, around 50 % of Quebec households will be using at least one home automation device. The smart home market in Quebec is now worth $3.02 billion.

In this guide, we show you how to intelligently integrate home automation into your new home in Longueuil, with the right steps, the right equipment choices, and advice from an RBQ general contractor who knows Quebec standards by heart.

Why plan for home automation when building in Longueuil?

It's possible to install home automation after the fact. But it's more expensive, more complicated, and often less effective.

When you plan home automation right from the design phase, you can anticipate wiring, network socket locations, suitable electrical panels, and the structure needed to support all connected devices.

It's not just about gadgets. It's about comfort, energy savings and peace of mind.

Pre-wiring: an essential step to avoid 30 % in additional costs

Pre-wiring is basic. It's what makes the difference between a clean installation and a cobbled-together one with wires running everywhere.

When you build new, the walls are open. This is the perfect time to run Ethernet cables, camera wires, conduit for smart thermostats, and anything else you'll need later. If you wait until after, you'll have to open the walls, run wires through partitions, repair, repaint... It quickly becomes a nightmare.

According to industry data, pre-wiring right from the plans saves you around 30 % compared to a post-construction installation. For an average home automation system that would cost 8,000 $ to install after the fact, you save around 2,400 $ by planning it from the start.

The Quebec Construction Code (Chapter I, 2025 edition) now requires a GTL. Gaine Technique Logement. in all new constructions. It's a centralized space where all cables arrive: electricity, internet, telephone, home automation. It facilitates installation, maintenance and future upgrades.

In the Montérégie region, around 15 % of new homes built by 2025 will include a home automation system right from the design stage. It's a fast-growing trend, because homeowners understand the benefits.

Energy and comfort benefits for Quebec's climate

Quebec is not California. We have long, cold winters. Heating systems run for six months of the year.

This is where home automation really comes into its own. A well-programmed smart thermostat can reduce your heating consumption by 20 %, according to Statistics Québec data published in 2025. On an annual heating bill of 2,000 $, that's 400 $ in savings per year. In 10 years, that's 4,000 $ in your pocket.

Smart thermostats like Ecobee or Nest learn your habits. They lower the temperature when you're away, raise it before you return, and can even detect when a window is open to avoid unnecessary heating.

In Longueuil, with winters that can drop to -20°C, you can program anti-freeze scenarios: if you go on a trip, the system maintains a minimum temperature to prevent the pipes from freezing. You can monitor the temperature remotely, receive alerts if it gets too low, and adjust the heating from your phone.

And then there are the subsidies. The Rénoclimat and LogisVert programs offer up to 7,500 $ in financial assistance for energy-efficient renovations or construction, including the installation of smart thermostats and energy management systems. All the more reason to plan for home automation right from the start.

Want to know how much it would cost for your project? Request your free plan analysis with Cartago Construction.

Home automation components for new homes (Longueuil 2025)

Now that we know why plan from the start, let's look at what to install.

There are hundreds of home automation gadgets on the market. But you don't need them all. You need to choose systems that really add value, that are compatible with each other, and that will last.

Essential systems to be planned at the design stage

Here are the basic elements we recommend for any new home in Longueuil:

• Connected lighting. Smart switches or connected bulbs in the main rooms: living room, kitchen, bedrooms. This allows you to control lighting remotely, set schedules and create moods. Budget: 50 to 150 $ per smart switch, or 15 to 40 $ per connected bulb.
• Smart thermostats. A connected thermostat for each heating zone. If you have a central system, one may suffice. If you have electric baseboard heaters in each room, you'll need individual thermostats. Budget: 100 to 300 $ per thermostat.
• Motorized blinds or shutters. Especially in bedrooms and living rooms. Improves comfort, privacy and energy efficiency (blinds down in winter keep the heat in, and block out the sun in summer). Budget: 350 to 500 $ per window.
• Motion and temperature sensors. To automate lighting in corridors, staircases and basements. To monitor temperature in less-heated rooms. Budget: 30 to 80 $ per sensor.
• Perimeter security cameras. Especially if you're in an area like Vieux-Longueuil or Saint-Hubert, where density is higher. Connected outdoor cameras let you monitor your property remotely. Budget: 100 to 400 $ per camera.
• Smart locks. To unlock the front door with your phone, give temporary codes to visitors, or check that you've locked up when you leave. Budget: 150 to 400 $ per lock.
• Connected smoke and CO detectors. Required by the French Building Code, you may as well choose connected models that send alerts to your phone. Budget: 40 to 120 $ per detector.

Quebec-compatible protocols (Matter, Zigbee, Z-Wave)

Please note: not all home automation devices speak the same language.

There are several communication protocols: Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Z-Wave, Thread, and now Matter (launched in 2022-2023 and in full expansion in 2025).

Wi-Fi is simple and universal, but it can overload your network if you have 50 connected devices. Zigbee and Z-Wave are more stable, consume less energy and create a mesh network (each device extends the signal range). Matter is the new standard that aims to make all devices compatible with each other, regardless of brand.

By 2025 in Quebec, most new home automation devices will support Matter or be Zigbee/Z-Wave compatible. We recommend choosing a central hub (like a Samsung SmartThings, Hubitat or Homey) that supports several protocols. That way, you're not limited to a single brand.

Security: incidents of home automation hacking represent less than 5 % of cases in Canada, and most are avoidable with a strong password and regular updates. That's no reason to avoid home automation, but it is important to choose devices from recognized brands with good technical support.

Advanced systems for high-end homes

If you have a higher budget or want to go further, here are some advanced options:

• Complex automated scenarios. For example, a «Home Departure» scenario that turns off all the lights, lowers the heating, locks the doors, closes the blinds, and activates the cameras. Or a «Bedtime» scenario that turns off everything except the nightlights, lowers the temperature in the bedrooms, and sets the alarm for the following day. Or a «Winter» scenario that automatically defrosts the hallway, turns on ventilation to prevent condensation, and turns on auxiliary heating in the garage.
• Multi-zone audio integration. Ceiling-mounted speakers, connected to a central system, to play music in all or some rooms. Companies like Brosseau in Montreal and NADOM in Montérégie specialize in this kind of high-end installation.
• Intelligent irrigation systems. If you have a large lawn, a connected sprinkler system that adjusts watering according to weather, soil moisture and forecasts. It saves water and keeps your lawn healthy.
• Pool and spa management. Control temperature, filtration, lighting and jets remotely.
• Motorized control of external shutters. To automatically close the shutters during a storm or when you go on vacation.

Cartago Construction offers 3 customized options: wireless (economical), hybrid (balanced), or wired (maximum performance).

Steps for integrating home automation in a new build (Cartago method)

Now that we know what to install, let's see how to do it in the right order.

At Cartago Construction, we follow a clear process for integrating home automation right from the construction phase. It's not complicated, but you have to plan it properly.

1. Needs analysis and system selection

Before talking about cables and hubs, we'll start by listening to you.

What are your needs? Do you want to control your heating to save money? Do you want security with smart cameras and locks? Do you want to automate lighting and create moods? Do you want it all?

And what's your budget? We can do a basic system for 4,000 to 6,000 $, or a complete high-end system for 15,000 to 25,000 $, depending on the size of the house and the options chosen.

Many people are afraid of making a mistake, choosing an incompatible system, or ending up with too many useless gadgets. And that's normal. But the reality is that 80 % of home automation users in Quebec are not «geeks». They're families, retirees and professionals who just want more comfort and control.

We guide you in your choice of system. We'll explain the differences between the protocols, show you concrete examples, and recommend the devices that meet your real needs.

2. Electrical plans + GTL with the Cartago team

Once we've defined your needs, we move on to technical planning.

We work with your architect or draughtsman to integrate home automation into the electrical plans. We determine where to place network sockets (Ethernet), where to install hubs and control panels, and where to run cables for cameras, thermostats and motorized blinds.

We're also planning the GTL. the technical housing duct. compliant with RBQ 2025 standards. This is where everything converges: the electrical panel, the Internet router, the network patch panel, the home automation hub. Everything is centralized, organized and easily accessible for future maintenance.

We use planning software to visualize wiring and avoid oversights. We also work with certified home automation specialists if your project requires advanced expertise (for example, for a multi-zone audio system or advanced ventilation control).

Total transparency: we show you the plans, explain every choice, and make sure you understand what's going to be installed. No surprises.

3. Installation (harnesses, hubs, panels)

During construction, all cabling and infrastructure is installed.

Ethernet cables run through the walls before the drywall is installed. Conduit for exterior cameras installed. Locations for smart thermostats are prepared. Electrical outlets are positioned in the right places for hubs and connected devices.

We comply with all Quebec safety standards: Building Code, RBQ regulations, CSA standards for electricity. We work with certified electricians and, if necessary, with subcontractors specialized in home automation.

Once the cabling is in place, we install the hubs, control panels and first connected devices. We make the connections, configure the network, and make sure everything communicates correctly.

4. Programming + winter tests (specific to Montérégie)

Installation is one thing. Programming is another.

Once the devices are installed, you configure them according to your preferences. Create automated scenarios (leaving home, returning home, going to bed, waking up). Program thermostats with your schedules and comfort zones. Adjust motion sensors so they don't go off too often or too infrequently.

And we test. Especially in winter, because that's when the heating and ventilation systems are under the most strain. We check that anti-freeze scenarios are working properly, that thermostats are responding correctly to temperature changes, and that alerts are sent at the right time.

In Montérégie, winters can be harsh. We make sure your home automation system can handle temperatures down to -20°C, snowstorms, and occasional power outages. We also check ventilation to avoid condensation and mold problems, which are common in well-insulated but poorly ventilated homes.

Want to make sure everything is done by the book? Schedule a free pre-construction meeting with Yassine, Project Manager at Cartago Construction.

Common home automation myths (and the truth according to Quebec experts)

As with anything to do with technology, there are a lot of misconceptions out there. Let's clear things up.

Myth: «Home automation is a gadget for geeks».»

False. By 2025, around 50 % of Quebec households will be using at least one home automation device.

It's not just for technology enthusiasts. Smart thermostats, security cameras, connected doorbells, smart light bulbs... it's becoming commonplace. Most users are ordinary people who just want more comfort, security and energy savings.

Interfaces are getting simpler and simpler. You don't need to understand computer code or network protocols. You just install an application on your phone, follow the instructions, and it works. If you know how to use Facebook or Netflix, you know how to use home automation.

Myth: «It's too expensive for a new house».»

It depends on what you're installing. But it's a lot more affordable than it used to be.

A basic system with a few smart thermostats, connected smoke detectors, and a few smart light bulbs can cost as little as 4,000 $ if integrated at the construction stage. A complete system with lighting, heating, security, motorized blinds and automated scenarios can run from 8,000 $ to 15,000 $, depending on the size of the house.

And let's not forget the savings. A smart thermostat that reduces your heating bill by 20 % pays for itself in 3 to 5 years. A security camera can save you money on your home insurance. Smart LED bulbs consume 80 % less energy than incandescent bulbs.

If you use LogisVert subsidies (up to 7,500 $), the net cost is even lower.

Myth: «It doesn't work well in winter».»

Wrong again. If properly installed, home automation works very well even at -30°C.

Indoor devices (thermostats, hubs, sensors) are in the heated house, so the outside temperature doesn't affect them. Outdoor cameras and connected doorbells are designed to operate in cold climates. Models sold in Canada are tested for temperatures down to -40°C.

In fact, home automation is particularly useful in winter. Montérégie homeowners with connected heating systems report a 20 % increase in energy efficiency over traditional thermostats, because they can fine-tune temperature and avoid waste.

Why choose Cartago Construction for your smart home in Longueuil?

If you're building a new home in Longueuil and want to integrate home automation correctly, Cartago Construction is the right partner.

We're not just builders. We understand the technology, we know Quebec standards, and we know how to integrate home automation in a clean, functional and sustainable way.

Local expertise in construction + home automation

Yassine Troudi, founder of Cartago Construction, has over 10 years' experience in residential construction in Quebec.

We know the particularities of the South Shore: soil types, municipal bylaws, RBQ standards, the challenges of the Montérégie climate. We've built and renovated dozens of homes in Longueuil, Saint-Hubert, Vieux-Longueuil, Brossard and throughout the region.

And we understand home automation. We know how to pre-wire correctly, how to choose the right devices, how to integrate everything into the electrical plans. We work with certified home automation specialists when necessary, but we can also manage basic installations ourselves, saving you time and money.

RBQ-compliant work + full insurance

Cartago Construction is RBQ certified and fully insured.

All our work complies with the Quebec Construction Code, CSA electrical standards, and Longueuil municipal bylaws. You have the legal guarantee, liability insurance, and peace of mind of knowing that everything is done by the book.

No shortcuts. We don't hide cables just anywhere. We install everything cleanly, with color codes, labels, and clear documentation to facilitate future maintenance.

Turnkey approach: plans, pre-wiring, installation, testing

With Cartago Construction, you don't have to juggle 10 different subcontractors.

We take care of everything: design of electrical plans including home automation, pre-wiring during construction, installation of connected devices, programming of scenarios, performance testing, and training on how to use the system.

You have a single point of contact from start to finish. We coordinate everything, meet deadlines, and make sure you're satisfied every step of the way.

Want a personalized quote? Get your free estimate for a smart home in Longueuil. Cartago takes care of everything, from design to programming.

FAQ. Home automation for new homes in Longueuil (2025)

Here are the questions we're most often asked about home automation in new buildings.

How much does it cost to install home automation in a new home in Quebec?

It depends on the level of automation. A basic system (a few smart thermostats, connected smoke detectors, lighting in main rooms) costs between 4,000 $ and 6,000 $. An intermediate system (+ cameras, smart locks, motorized blinds) costs between 8,000 $ and 12,000 $. A complete high-end system (audio integration, advanced scenarios, total control) can run from 15,000 $ to 25,000 $ or more, depending on the size of the home.

Can Matter/Zigbee/Z-Wave be integrated wirelessly?

Yes, many home automation devices work wirelessly, using protocols such as Zigbee, Z-Wave or Matter. You still need a central hub (connected to the power grid and the Internet), but the devices themselves communicate wirelessly with the hub. This is a good option if you don't want to run cables everywhere. On the other hand, for some equipment (outdoor cameras, audio systems), wired is more reliable.

What subsidies are available (LogisVert)?

The Québec government's LogisVert program offers up to 7,500 $ in financial assistance for energy-efficient construction or renovation projects. This includes the installation of smart thermostats, energy management systems and equipment to reduce electricity consumption. Certain criteria must be met (level of energy efficiency, use of certified materials), but it's accessible for most new constructions. Cartago Construction can help you prepare your application.

What's the best way to manage heating in winter?

Use programmable smart thermostats. Set schedules to suit your routine: lower temperatures at night and when you're away, comfortable temperatures in the morning and evening. Activate geolocation functions so that the system detects when you're approaching the house and heats up automatically. You can also program anti-freeze scenarios if you're going on a trip, to maintain a minimum temperature and prevent pipes from freezing.

Is it compatible with a heat pump?

Yes, most modern smart thermostats are compatible with heat pumps, central heating systems and electric baseboard heaters. Just check compatibility before you buy. Models like Ecobee and Nest support heat pumps with auxiliary heating, which is common in Quebec. If you have electric baseboard heaters in every room, there are specific smart thermostats for this type of installation.

Do we need a central hub?

It depends on the system you choose. Some devices (like Philips Hue bulbs or Ecobee thermostats) can work directly with your Wi-Fi router, without a hub. But if you want to integrate several brands and protocols (Zigbee, Z-Wave, Matter), a central hub like Samsung SmartThings, Hubitat, or Home Assistant is recommended. It simplifies management, improves stability, and lets you create advanced scenarios.

What pre-wiring is required?

As a minimum, provide Ethernet cables (Cat 6 or Cat 6a) in the main rooms, at the GTL, and at external camera locations. You'll also need to allow for empty conduits, so that you can add cables later if necessary. For motorized blinds, provide electrical outlets near the windows. For smart thermostats, check whether your system requires a C (common) wire, and install it during construction.

Which appliances consume the least energy?

Zigbee and Z-Wave devices consume very little energy (they often run on batteries for 1-2 years). Smart LED bulbs consume 80 % less energy than incandescent bulbs. Smart thermostats reduce heating consumption by 10 to 20 %. Wi-Fi devices consume a little more, but it's negligible (a few watts).

What are the risks of piracy in Quebec in 2025?

Home automation hacking incidents account for less than 5 % of cases in Canada. Most are preventable with basic measures: use strong, unique passwords, enable two-factor authentication, update your devices regularly, and choose recognized brands with good support. Avoid cheap home automation devices from unknown brands, which often have security flaws.

Who to install: electrician, technologist, RBQ contractor?

For electrical wiring and the GTL, you need a certified electrician (mandatory under Quebec law). For the home automation devices themselves, it depends on their complexity. An RBQ general contractor like Cartago Construction can handle the basic installation (thermostats, cameras, lighting). For advanced systems (multi-zone audio, integration with commercial security systems), a certified home automation specialist is recommended. The advantage of working with Cartago is that we coordinate everything and call in the right specialists for your needs.

Integrating home automation into your new home in Longueuil is a smart investment. It improves comfort, reduces energy costs, increases security, and adds value to your property.

But you have to plan it properly from the outset. If you wait until after construction, it's more expensive and more complicated.

At Cartago Construction, we're with you every step of the way: needs analysis, system selection, pre-wiring, installation, programming and testing. We know Quebec standards, we comply with RBQ regulations, and we guarantee a professional result.

Contact us to discuss your project. Call us at 438-932-4326 or write to [email protected]. Our office is located at 2580 Rue Cartier, Longueuil.

Build your smart home today.