PC Man’s Home Automation Tips for Landlords
Managing multiple properties as a landlord can be a logistical nightmare, what with coordinating maintenance, securing access, and keeping tenants happy, particularly if you don’t live nearby. Thankfully, smart home automation is changing the game for landlords everywhere. With the right tech setup, PC Man helps landlords and property management companies streamline operations, enhance tenant satisfaction, and even lower long-term costs.
Here’s how Control4 can help you manage multiple properties more efficiently and professionally.
1. Remote Access Control with Smart Locks
Tired of copying keys or worrying about lost ones? Smart locks let you manage property access remotely. Need to let in the plumber or a prospective tenant? With Control4’s integration of smart locks, such as Yale and Kwikset, you can control access to every property from a single dashboard.
✅ Grant and revoke access codes remotely
✅ Track who enters and when
✅ Set automatic lock schedules for vacant units
Pro Tip: Automate tenant turnover by synching locks with your property management schedule through Control4 scenes.
2. Smart Thermostats to Save on Utilities
Control4 climate control works seamlessly with smart thermostats like Ecobee and Aprilaire, allowing you to monitor and control the temperature from anywhere, even in empty or seasonal properties. You can even set geofencing rules to ensure HVAC systems only run when someone is actually present. Not only is this more environmentally friendly, but for rentals where utilities are included, this can also lead to significant savings.
✅ Provide tenants with user-friendly climate control
✅ Automate temperature based on occupancy
✅ Avoid HVAC overuse in empty properties
Pro Tip: Control4 allows you to group multiple thermostats across properties into your central dashboard, making bulk management easy.
3. Peace of Mind with Integrated Security Systems
Security is a concern for tenants and a liability issue for landlords, particularly for multi-unit properties. Control4 integrates with surveillance systems such as Luma cameras and Chime video doorbells, giving you real-time visibility and control.
✅ Monitor entrances, garages, and shared spaces
✅ Receive motion-triggered alerts
✅ Let in maintenance teams with video confirmation
Pro Tip: You can even create custom security scenes, such as arming alarms and turning on exterior lights after hours.
4. Prevent Damage with Smart Sensors
Water leaks, frozen pipes, and HVAC issues can cost thousands. Control4 integrates with environmental sensors, such as WaterCop or Z-Wave leak detectors, providing you with early warnings and automatic shut-offs that alert you to issues before they escalate into full-blown disasters.
✅ Detect leaks or excess humidity early
✅ Trigger alerts and shut-off valves remotely
✅ Reduce emergency maintenance calls
Pro Tip: Set alerts to your phone so you can organise repairs from wherever you are and tenant alerts to keep them informed.
5. Centralised Control with the Control4 App
Forget switching between dozens of apps or logins. Control4’s platform gives you unified control of:
- Lighting
- Climate
- Security
- Access
- Entertainment (if you offer built-in AV setups)
✅ Manage multiple properties from one app
✅ Organise each property as a separate project
✅ Monitor activity logs and device health
Bonus: Whether you manage tenanted houses, holiday rentals, or apartment complexes, Control4 brings it all together.
6. Tenant-Friendly Tech (That You Still Control)
Some tenants are tech enthusiasts. Others, not so much. With Control4, you can offer user-friendly interfaces via wall panels or Control4 touchscreens while maintaining full backend control as the landlord.
✅ Customise user access levels
✅ Reset systems easily between tenants
✅ Scalable if you acquire more properties
Bonus: Renters are more likely to stay longer in rentals with premium automation.
Upgrade from DIY to Pro-Level Automation
While off-the-shelf smart devices are great for DIY enthusiasts, Control4 offers a professionally installed, fully scalable solution designed for serious property managers and landlords. Whether you manage a handful of rentals or a whole portfolio, the right tech can cut down your workload, boost property value, and create a better experience for tenants.
Want to streamline your property management with Control4?
Contact PC Man today, your trusted source for home automation advice, device recommendations, and smart solutions for property pros. Call 020 3369 0669 or email info@ilovepcman.com.
