Moda Living, developer, operator and owner of private build-to-rent (BTR) homes, has partnered with technology provider Utopi, to build a complete digital infrastructure, and optimise smart building technology across its development portfolio.
Utopi’s IoT multi-sensor will be installed throughout Moda’s residential communities and will measure humidity, temperature, CO2, light, noise, motion and occupancy, creating a wellness score.
The sensors will automatically respond to adjust the environment to exercise real-time control of air-conditioning, security and lighting systems, optimising the space for residents and saving money on energy costs.
Oscar Brooks, director at Moda, said: “The technological advancements of IoT in real estate will forever change how we interact with the structures in which we live and work.
“We need to ensure that Moda is truly tech-enabled – to really understand the behaviour of our residents and help us build the best homes of the future.
“Moda is a vertically integrated housing brand, and Utopi is the cornerstone supplier for our new build-to-rent operating system.”
Instant alerts will ensure that any maintenance and utility issues are resolved efficiently or prevented entirely. A defective air-conditioning unit or contaminated tap is usually only detected at the next routine service visit.
However, with remote dashboard monitoring displays, real-time data allows management to identify issues at a much earlier stage, with some systems employing machine learning to automatically adjust and redefine maintenance plans.
Moda residents already use the MyModa App, allowing them to book amenities and engage with the building management team.
Jonathan Burridge, chief executive at Utopi, said: “Moda is the biggest and fastest-growing purpose-built BTR company in the UK and our brief was to keep them at the cutting edge by helping deliver innovative smart building technology for their portfolio. By using tech to change the way buildings are designed, we create safer spaces and better places to live. We are always looking ahead at Moda’s next development to they continue to lead the way in technological advancements in the BTR space.
“We support their mission to become the greenest BTR in the country, and IoT and data analytics has a leading role to play in a Net Zero Carbon world, helping reduce or avoid consumption, whilst saving residents and owners money, and greatly enhancing the living experience.”
