Zwave network toppology

Hi,
For some time I have suspected that there is something wrong with my z-wave network. I use Z-Wave JS addon.
The issue I have that two of my ground floor door sensors keep dropping off (in a sense that they do not report if the door is opened or closed) but when I move them closer to the controller (Aeotec z-wave usb stick) that is on the 1st floor they work fine.
On the ground floor very close to the two door sensor I have installed Fibaro FGS222 switch and directly above them is another switch (Aeon labs DSC12) - both mains powered so if my limited understanding of Z-Wave technology is correct the door sensors should connect to the switches (as they are closer) rather then the controller.

To prove the theory I have installed “z-wave js to mqtt” add-on (and temporarily stopped the other add-on) and surly enough on the network map that is generated by this addon all devices connect directly to the controller.

Why is that? Is there anything I can do to change this?
Thanks

Heal Node

In HA you can go to zwave device and get stats and other details to determine if dropping messages or long RTT

Lots of dropped measeges and long RTT would be sign of poor connectivity I believe

To your direct question - How you impact the situation… Run a ‘repair’ on the specific device (not the entire ZWave network) to force the device to evaluate its paths back to the coordinator.

Beyond that no. The devices choose thier own paths back to the coordinator based on a number of factors that end users do NOT have control over. Your comtrol includes making sure you have enough repeaters for the devices to use.