What to include in a robot mower installation survey

An installation survey should establish how the mower will use the whole garden. Finding somewhere to put the charging dock is only one part of the job.

Prepare a garden brief

Draw the lawns, paths, buildings and fixed obstacles. Add approximate areas and measured passage widths. Mark ponds, steps and drops prominently. Include planned changes such as a new bed, gate or garden room.

Write down who uses the lawn and when. Ask the installer to build the proposed operation around a suitable daytime schedule, with space for family activities.

Ask how navigation will work

Have the installer explain the model's positioning method and what happens where it becomes unreliable. For a wired system, discuss the wire route and later garden work. For a satellite-based system, ask how buildings, trees and enclosed passages affect the installation.

Husqvarna UK: Robotic mower FAQ describes model-dependent differences in passages and navigation. Do not transfer one manufacturer's specification to another system or assume a camera removes every positioning limitation.

Check the dock and power arrangement

Ask for the exact requirements for the dock approach, location and power supply. Let a competent installer resolve electrical work and the suitability of outdoor equipment. Avoid planning around an extension lead or socket arrangement that has not been assessed.

Ask how the mower is isolated for maintenance and how children or visitors should interact with it.

Define acceptance before installation

List the areas the installer will demonstrate, including the difficult passages and docking route. Agree how incomplete coverage or repeated failures will be addressed.

Keep the installation drawing and settings with the manual. The RHS: Lawn mowing guide guidance reminds readers that mowing should adapt to grass growth and ground conditions; installation is the beginning of that routine, rather than permission to run unchanged throughout the year.