The Rise of Private Utility Networks within Build-to-Rent Developments in New Zealand
Built-to-Rent (BTR) developments are a growing trend in the real estate market globally, offering tenants a new form of rental accommodation and a unique investment opportunity for owners. Tenco receives many questions from BTR owners about how private utility networks can benefit both tenants and owners.
Private utility networks can reduce operating costs, increase control, and provide mechanisms to achieve sustainability goals. With Tenco's multi-utility package, electricity, water, and fibre can all be included on a tenant's monthly bill -- simplifying the resident experience.
How do tenants benefit from private utility networks within BTRs?
Residents living within BTR developments can take advantage of the benefits that private networks bring. On-boarding and move in processes are smooth -- with the building owner taking control of the utility signup process for electricity, water and fibre services rather than individual retailers. Tenants avoid the risk of being disconnected during an already stressful move-in period. The same can be said for when it’s time to move-out -- no need to contact multiple providers to end services.
Additionally, residents have a single point of contact for billing or technical assistance while also having the option of a consolidated invoice each month.
Benefits of private utility networks for build-to-rent owners.
BTR owners can rely on bills being delivered on-time and accurately -- reducing operational costs and improving resident satisfaction. Private utility networks can consolidate electricity, water, and fibre services into one bill, easing tenants' understanding and payment of utility charges. Tenco offers various solutions that leverage a traditional embedded network structure, ensuring market compliance and resident costs are aligned with expectations.
When working with Tenco on a solution to fit the needs of the property, BTR owners can rely on the expertise and efficiencies that come with partnering with utility experts to establish and operate their private network. This also means avoiding the lengthy administrative delays during the construction cycle that often occur when a comprehensive programme plan is not in place.
Private utility networks also allow BTR owners to have greater control over the metering systems that are selected – making certain that they are fit-for-purpose. This ensures that utility data is accurate and reliable over the long-term.
Deploying private utility networks also give BTR owners a heightened sense of control over vacant tenancies, as they can monitor and manage energy consumption when units are not occupied. Building owners can use this information to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their buildings, thus reducing operating costs.
How can private utility networks help owners reach their sustainability goals?
Private networks within BTR facilities enable monitoring of the building’s utilities with reporting on total building load and demand via the Tenco Insights suite of reports. Building management can monitor consumption trends that feed into green building certifications and sustainability initiatives.
BTR owners can also access detailed energy use and performance data through private utility networks. Armed with reliable data, building owners can showcase their energy efficiency achievements and make informed decisions regarding the performance of their property.
Sustainability initiatives such as centralised hot water systems, rooftop solar and low-energy private fibre networks (GPON) become viable by deploying private networks. Having control of utility networks allows BTR owners to deploy the technology that best fits the needs of their development.
Tenco is at the forefront of the BTR private utility market. We’re well positioned to deliver for our clients – leveraging our history of successfully implementing over 350 private electricity, water, gas and fibre networks across New Zealand.
Get in touch to discuss how private utility networks can benefit your property.
