Finding a Matter installer
MatterCatalog does not run an installer network, and we do not refer, vet or rate installers. Most Matter devices need no installer at all. Devices wired into your home's electrical system are different. This page covers whether you need help, what to check before you buy, and what to ask whoever does the work.
Do you need an installer?
- Usually not: smart plugs, bulbs, light strips, battery-powered sensors, hubs and speakers. You plug them in or insert batteries, then pair them from your phone. Our Matter setup guide walks through pairing.
- Often yes: anything wired into mains power, such as in-wall switches and dimmers, in-wall outlets, ceiling fan controls and some thermostats. In many places this work must be done by a licensed electrician, and some jobs need a permit. Check your local rules.
- It depends: most retrofit smart locks replace a standard deadbolt with hand tools. Check the lock's door thickness and backset requirements first; a door that needs drilling or a different strike plate may be a job for a locksmith.
Check the wiring before you buy
- Neutral wire. Many smart switches and dimmers need a neutral wire in the wall box, and older homes often have switch boxes without one. Ask the electrician to confirm what each box has. If there is no neutral, Matter switches without a neutral wire lists models that mention no-neutral wiring; check their extra requirements, such as a minimum load or a bypass.
- Box depth. Smart switches are deeper than plain switches. A crowded or shallow box may need replacing.
- Three-way circuits. A light controlled from two places needs a switch that supports three-way wiring, often with a companion switch. Check the manufacturer's three-way instructions for the exact model.
- Load and bulb type. Dimmers have load limits and need dimmable bulbs. Our smart switch guide lists the wiring and load requirements of its picks.
- Thermostats. Many smart thermostats need a C-wire (common wire) or an adapter for constant power, and some heating systems need a specific type of thermostat. Requirements depend on the model and your system; our thermostat guide groups models by system type.
Plan the Matter network
- Thread devices need a Thread border router, which many recent smart speakers, displays and hubs include. Check yours before you buy. Thread vs Wi-Fi Matter devices explains the difference.
- Wi-Fi devices need a good signal where they will be mounted. Most Matter-over-Wi-Fi devices connect on 2.4 GHz. A switch in a metal box or a lock on an exterior door can sit at the edge of coverage.
- Your controller. Decide which app will run your home (Apple Home, Google Home, Amazon Alexa, SmartThings or another Matter controller). Matter devices can be shared with more than one of them.
What to ask an electrician or installer
- Are you licensed and insured for electrical work where I live, and does this job need a permit?
- Will you only do the wiring, or also pair the devices? Pairing uses your phone and your accounts, so plan to be there.
- Will every device be added to my home and my account, not yours?
- Can you label the wires in each box and leave the old switches, in case a device has to be replaced?
- Who resets and pairs a device again if it drops off the network?
Keep the Matter QR code or numeric setup code from each device or its box. You need it to pair the device again after a reset or to add it to another app.
Where to look
For wiring, start with a licensed electrician. For a larger project, such as many rooms, shades or a whole-home setup, look for a smart home or low-voltage integrator. Some manufacturers and stores offer installation for the products they sell; the product's support page usually says so. MatterCatalog has no installer listings and receives nothing from installers or installation services.
Before you book anyone, check each device's page on MatterCatalog for its certification status and requirements, and how to verify Matter certificationif a listing says "unverified". Questions or corrections: team@mattercatalog.com.