How IoT Sensors can Transform the Management of Vacant Properties
If you're a property owner such as an AirBnB rental or work in a property management company, then you will be all too familiar with the management of vacant properties. From the risk of damage that goes unnoticed to the potential unauthorised access, empty buildings can be a major source of concern and are difficult to manage.
Fortunately, with the fast growing industry of IoT and smart homes, IoT technology can provide an innovative and efficient solution to these challenges. In this use case, we are going to explore how IoT sensors can be used to safeguard and maintain vacant properties.
Remote Monitoring with IoT Sensors
At the heart of IoT technology is the sensors that can collect an abundant amount of data about the environment and transmit it over the internet using edge devices. These sensors come in different forms, each designed to monitor a specific aspect of a vacant property's condition. These sensors can include the following:
Temperature and Humidity - changes in temperature and humidity within a property can cause serious damage over time, including mould growth and structural damage. IoT temperature and humidity sensors can provide continuous monitoring of these factors, sending data and alerts to property owners or managers when conditions venture outside of the set parameters. This allows early intervention, potentially saving substantial repair costs further down the line.
Water Leak Sensor - water leaks are one of the most common causes of property damage and one of the most costly. IoT water leak sensors can be installed near water intensive areas like kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms or near water pipes and boilers. These devices will promptly alert you if they detect the presence of water, providing an opportunity for a rapid response to fix any issues that may occur and prevent astronomical damage.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors - While traditional smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms can sound an alarm, this is unnecessary when placed in vacant properties since no one can hear them. Smart detectors, on the other hand, can send an alert to your smart device, monitoring service or emergency services, ensuring a rapid response to a potential disaster.
Security Sensors - One of the best features of IoT technology is the ability to interconnect devices into a single cohesive system. This not only allows for a centralised control and monitoring but also allows devices to work together. When it comes to security and smart homes this feature can be a deterrent where a motion sensor can trigger the illumination of lights, potentially deterring an intruder from further entry or making it easier to capture video evidence. In some cases, it could alert the property owner that there are squatters inside the premises.
Use case scenarios
Holiday Home/Second Property
The property owner's holiday home is frequently unoccupied throughout the year. Here, IoT sensors help monitor and maintain the property by providing data that allow easy preparation for visits.
- They have installed smart sensors such as smoke detectors and water leak detectors to prevent fire or water damage to the property.
- They installed security sensors such as motion sensors, door and window sensors to detect a possible break in. The system can alert the property owner and local authorities.
- Prior to visiting the property, the owner can adjust the thermostat and lights, ensuring a warm and welcoming home for the visitors.
Rental Property
For rental properties, IoT sensors are used to enhance tenant satisfaction, facilitate property maintenance and provide security.
- Smart locks, like the August Smart Lock, can provide keyless entry for tenants and allow the Property Owner or Property Management Company to grant or revoke access as needed. This is especially useful between tenancies.
- Smart appliances, like a smart washer and dryer, can alert tenants when laundry is done, enhancing their living experience.
- The Property Management Company can use data from smart energy metres to track energy use and identify any abnormalities that might indicate a problem with the property's systems.
Postconditions
Through the use of IoT devices and a sensor dashboard, the Property Owner is able to efficiently manage multiple properties, ensuring predictable maintenance, high security, and peace of mind. The Property Management Company is also able to effectively oversee the rental property remotely and reduce unnecessary costs with regular visits.
How Nebra Sense Can Help you get started with Your Vacant Properties
If you're ready to harness the power of IoT for your vacant properties, here are some steps Nerba Sense can help get you started:
Identify Your Needs: Different properties have different needs. Assess your property to determine which types of sensors would provide the most benefit. Nebra Sense supports up to 254 brands of sensors and more being added all the time.
Choose Your Devices: There are many IoT devices on the market, so Nerba Sense can help you find the ones that best fit your needs and budget.
Plan for Connectivity: Remember that your IoT devices will need a reliable LoRa connection to function. Nebra utilises the existing Helium network to provide reliable connectivity. If LoRa connectivity is unavailable then Nebra Sense has a number of indoor and outdoor gateway options available.
Implement and Analyse: Once your devices are installed, Nebra Sense can help monitor and analyse your data through its dashboard. Set up alerts and regularly check in on your property's status.
By strategically deploying IoT sensors and analysing your data, you can transform your vacant property management, gaining peace of mind and protecting your investment. Embrace the future of property management with IoT and see the difference it can make!