Fuel poverty solution Addressing Fuel Poverty in the UK through Halo Smart IoT Solutions by Tiago Fernandes, Research & Development Engineer | Halo Smart IoT With climate change and rising costs, it is more important than ever to ensure everyone has access to basic living conditions. The issue of fuel poverty in the UK is a growing concern. In 2022, an estimated 13.4% of households (3.26 million) in England were in fuel poverty. This is a significant increase from the previous year, and the situation is expected to worsen. The charity National Energy Action (NEA) has estimated that the total number of households across the UK in fuel poverty increased from around 4 million in summer 2020 to 6.7 million in October 2022. Halo Smart IoT: A solution to fuel poverty Halo Smart IoT provides smart IoT solutions for housing monitoring and management. One of Halo Smart IoT specialised hardware and software technologies is the Fuel Poverty Solution. This solution is designed to tackle the issue of fuel poverty, which becomes a significant issue during the winter season when residents face the challenge of allocating a large portion of their income to heating their homes. Why choose Halo Smart IoT? Halo Smart IoT offers a range of benefits for both landlords and tenants. For landlords, the benefits include proactive estate monitoring to anticipate and prevent issues, compliance and performance reporting, free installers’ training and support, easy and rapid IoT hardware installation, and tamperproof IoT hardware design. For tenants, the benefits include enhancing the health and wellbeing standards, without interference with tenants’ day-to-day lives, no operation cost to the tenant, no invasion of tenants’ privacy, and aesthetic IoT hardware design. The importance of addressing fuel poverty Addressing fuel poverty is not just about providing cheaper and more effective and efficient solutions. It’s about ensuring that everyone has access to basic living conditions. Halo Smart IoT unlocks immediate possibilities and can extend its impact to a significantly broader audience. In conclusion, the worsening fuel poverty statistics in the UK and the world highlight the urgent need for solutions like those provided by Halo Smart IoT. By leveraging the power of IoT, we can significantly impact the fight against fuel poverty and ensure a better future for all.
TPAS Net Zero Knowledge Exchange
Tenant Engagement event TPAS Net Zero Knowledge Exchange Thursday, 8th February 2024, 10am-11am Join us for the Net Zero Knowledge Exchange session, an event by TPAS Cymru, aimed at enhancing collaboration and sharing expertise in the housing sector’s journey to Net Zero. This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with peers, learn from diverse experiences, and discuss innovative strategies for a sustainable future. Event overview In this interactive roundtable session, we will explore various landlords’ pathways to Net Zero. We aim to understand what works best in terms of planning, organisation, and tenant involvement. It’s crucial to not only celebrate our successes but also to openly discuss the challenges and lessons learned. Whether you wish to actively contribute or simply listen in, this open space is ideal for all. Who should attend? This session is a unique platform for professionals involved in any aspect of their organisation’s Net Zero projects, such as project managers, tenant-facing staff, and tenant engagement teams. Gain invaluable insights and discover innovative strategies to drive impactful Net Zero initiatives. Cost Open to all staff, free of charge – an unmissable opportunity for professionals in the housing sector. Staff/Board (member organisations): Free Staff/Board (non-member organisations): Free Things to Know: This event will be an online webinar via Zoom. The session will not be recorded – attend live for a one-of-a-kind interactive experience. Register now to secure your spot! REGISTER Don’t miss out on this opportunity for sharing, learning, and shaping the future of Net Zero in housing. We can’t wait to welcome you and hear your valuable contributions!
A data-driven guide to what Real Estate managers need to see on the analytics platform
Data analytics platform A data-driven guide to what Real Estate managers need to see on the analytics platform The housing estate isn’t just bricks and mortar, it’s a living ecosystem. And like any ecosystem, it thrives on understanding its own dynamics. An analytics platform isn’t a luxury, it’s a microscope, illuminating hidden patterns in resident behaviour, resource utilisation, and maintenance needs. With data-driven insights, we can optimise resource allocation, predict repair issues before they become crises, and tailor services to the real-time pulse of our community. It’s not about guesswork, it’s about proactive care, building a smarter, more sustainable future for every resident, brick by digital brick. However, like any evolving technology, analytics platforms face numerous challenges and issues that need to be addressed for continued success. Data quality One significant issue many analytics platforms encounter is data quality. With the ever-increasing volume and variety of data generated, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and completeness remains a pressing challenge. Data quality issues can arise due to various factors such as data integration problems, manual errors, or inconsistencies in data sources. Consequently, analytics platforms must develop robust data cleansing and validation mechanisms to enhance the accuracy of the insights being generated. Addressing data quality will instil confidence in users and enable them to make critical decisions based on accurate and reliable information. Scalability As organisations and industries continue to expand and generate vast amounts of data, analytics platforms must be capable of handling this enormous growth. Scalability encompasses the ability to process and analyse large datasets efficiently and the flexibility to adapt to changing business needs. Analytics platforms need to invest in scalable infrastructure, leverage cloud computing technologies, and explore techniques such as parallel processing to ensure smooth operations and meet evolving demands. By addressing scalability concerns, analytics platforms will empower organisations to unlock the true potential of big data and drive innovation. Data privacy and security Data privacy and security remain paramount in the context of analytics platforms. As sensitive data is collected, processed, and analysed, strict measures must be implemented to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of this information. Analytics platforms must incorporate robust encryption methods, access controls, and compliance frameworks to ensure compliance with regulations. By prioritising data privacy and security, analytics platforms can build trust among users and foster a responsible and ethical data-driven culture. User experience Analytics platforms need to focus on enhancing user experience and ease of use. The insights generated should be presented in an intuitive and user-friendly manner, allowing non-technical users to interpret complex data easily. By investing in user interface design, interactive data visualisation, and natural language processing capabilities, analytics platforms can democratise data and enable individuals at all levels of an organisation to be more data-driven in their decision-making. Expectations surrounding resolving these issues are high due to the increasing reliance on analytics platforms in various industries. Organisations expect analytics platforms to provide accurate and reliable insights that will optimise operational efficiency, drive revenue growth, and support strategic decision-making. While analytics platforms have changed the way organisations connect insights from data, they face several challenges that need to be resolved. As analytics platforms advance to tackle these challenges, they will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of data-driven decision-making. The housing estate data and analytics platform has the potential to transform real estate portfolio management. However, to meet user expectations and provide a seamless experience, it needs to address certain issues. Enhancing real-time data accessibility, improving customisation options for tailored reporting, streamlining compliance monitoring, and optimising space and maintenance efficiency are essential steps towards creating a comprehensive and user-friendly platform. By resolving these issues, the platform will allow real estate managers to effectively monitor and enhance their portfolios, ensuring successful estate portfolio management.
2023 Highlights
2023 Highlights & achievements In the dynamic landscape of technology and innovation, 2023 marked a remarkable year for Halo Smart IoT, with a series of outstanding achievements and notable highlights that underscored the company’s commitment to excellence. From pioneering developments in smart connectivity to forging strategic partnerships, the year unfolded as a testament to Halo Smart IoT’s unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of possibility. Our New Website is Live! Explore a fresh and user-friendly interface designed with you in mind. Navigate seamlessly through our pages to discover Smart IoT Solutions, ways our solutions shape the future of residential property management, industry insights, tips, and company updates. Karen Mack has joined Halo Smart IoT team as Director of Customer Engagement. Karen brings a wealth of experience to our team, with a robust background in energy procurement, energy management, IoT, and Smart Building technologies. Her expertise extends to account and business management, making her a valuable addition to our Halo Smart IoT team. Halo Smart IoT took part in the Greater Manchester Green Summit 2023, where delegates met and networked with others determined to drive change and help the city-region meet its ambitious goals for the environment, with panels, workshops networking and exhibition stands showcasing challenges, solutions and opportunities. The Net Zero Nations Projects Conference London serves as a pivotal platform for global stakeholders to converge and discuss strategies for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. This conference promises to showcase innovative case studies and projects from various countries, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts in the fight against climate change. With a focus on new technologies and sustainable innovations, the event aims to accelerate the global transition to a greener and more sustainable future. Halo Smart IoT proudly stands as a Silver sponsor of the Net Zero Nations Project Conference, affirming its commitment to driving sustainable solutions and fostering meaningful dialogue around achieving net-zero goals. Halo Smart IoT has forged a strategic partnership with Vector Homes, establishing a collaborative involvement in monitoring the performance of Energy House 2.0. This alliance signifies a synergistic effort to leverage innovative IoT solutions for comprehensive and effective house performance monitoring. Procurex Wales connects buyers and suppliers from across Wales’ public procurement sector worth more than £8.3bn annually. It’s a unique event that enables all stakeholders to learn about the latest developments shaping the future of this area – featuring extensive skills development, networking, collaboration and product showcase opportunities for public sector buyers and private sector organisations alike. Halo Smart IoT sponsored Procurex Wales 2023 and the Excellence In Public Procurement Gala Awards Ceremony Personality of the Year award, recognising notable contributions to the field.
Retrofit solution
The rise of retrofit solutions in the housing industry In response to the escalating demand for sustainable and technologically advanced living spaces, retrofit solutions have emerged as a transformative force in the housing industry. Offering a way to upgrade existing homes and buildings without resorting to complete reconstruction, retrofitting involves the integration of cutting-edge technologies, safety enhancements, and aesthetic improvements. Energy efficiency takes centre stage The primary driver behind the adoption of retrofit solutions is the imperative to enhance Energy efficiency. With a growing awareness of climate change and the soaring costs of energy consumption, homeowners and building owners are seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint and utility bills. Older structures often lack modern safety features, making retrofitting a crucial avenue for ensuring occupant well-being and compliance with updated building codes. Installing fire sprinkler systems, smoke alarms, and secure entry systems not only minimises the risk of accidents but also aligns properties with contemporary safety standards, mitigating liability concerns for building owners. Smart living, enhanced experience The integration of smart home technologies has become a hallmark of retrofit solutions, offering homeowners automated convenience, enhanced efficiency, and improved security. From automated lighting and thermostats to environmental sensors, retrofitting transforms existing homes into intelligent, connected spaces. This not only elevates the overall living experience but also bolsters property values in the dynamic real estate market. Adherence to evolving building codes Regular updates to building codes ensure structures meet current safety and environmental standards. Retrofitting older buildings facilitates compliance with these codes, reducing potential liabilities and ensuring the safety of occupants. Modernising structures not only meets legal requirements but also safeguards building owners from penalties associated with non-compliance. Revitalising aesthetics and market appeal As structures age, they can lose their visual allure. Retrofitting allows homeowners and building owners to breathe new life into their properties through cosmetic changes such as updated exteriors, landscaping, and modern design elements. These improvements not only enhance a property’s appearance but also increase its value and desirability in the competitive real estate landscape. Smart devices, capable of gathering data. learning individual preferences and optimising temperature settings for comfort and energy savings, empower property owners to delve deeper into their property’s energy consumption, security, and overall comfort levels. Retrofit solutions: A holistic transformation In essence, retrofit solutions in the housing industry offer a myriad of benefits, from improving energy efficiency and enhancing safety to incorporating smart home technologies, complying with building codes, and revitalising aesthetic appeal. The integration of cutting-edge retrofit features further amplifies these advantages, propelling existing structures into the realm of sustainability, comfort, and connectivity – without the need for complete reconstruction.
Fuel poverty solution
Smart solution Fuel poverty solution Fuel poverty is a significant issue during the winter season when residents face the challenge of allocating a large portion of their income to heating their homes. This not only affects their ability to afford other essential items but also has a detrimental impact on their health and wellbeing. The recent study conducted in the borough, revealed that over 20% of households are classified as fuel poor. This borough has a high proportion of low-income households, and many of the homes in the borough are poorly insulated. The rising cost of energy is also making it more difficult for people to afford to heat their homes. In the past year, energy prices have increased by around 50%. This means that residents are more likely to struggle to afford to heat their homes, and they are also more likely to live in cold, damp homes. Housing associations and council housing are tasked with aiding households at risk, yet face the significant challenge of identifying such households among the hundreds of properties under their management. The conventional method of individually inspecting each property proves not only cost-ineffective but also excessively time-consuming, causing disruption for residents. A more efficient solution lies in the implementation of continuous monitoring. By deploying Internet of Things (IoT) devices that measure various environmental factors, data can be seamlessly collected and centralised for analysis. This enables the identification of patterns and automatic detection of abnormalities or unusual trends. Through this proactive approach, the housing association and council housing can promptly respond to individual households deemed at risk, ensuring a more targeted and timely intervention. This not only streamlines the identification process but also enhances the overall effectiveness of support initiatives while minimising inconvenience to residents. Addressing fuel poverty in the winter season is a pressing concern that requires immediate attention. The use of Halo smart IoT sensors, offers a promising solution to promote energy efficiency and reduce fuel poverty. By providing real-time monitoring and feedback on energy usage, these sensors can empower households to make informed decisions regarding their energy consumption. Fuel poverty smart solution
Regulation on damp and mould in social and private rented properties
Legislation explained Regulation on damp and mould in social and private rented properties The UK government has recently published guidance on understanding and addressing the health risks of damp and mould in the home. This guidance aims to help individuals identify and tackle issues related to dampness and mould, which can have adverse effects on health if left unaddressed. Every person across the country deserves to live in a home that is safe, warm, and dry. The case of 2-year-old Awaab Ishak’s tragic death in 2020 due to mould in his family home was undoubtedly a devastating event, and it is crucial that such incidents are not repeated. The Coroner’s report into Awaab’s death shed light on a series of failures that contributed to this unfortunate outcome. It is a stark reminder of the importance of addressing issues related to dampness and mould in homes promptly and effectively. The recently published guidance by the UK government on understanding and addressing the health risks of damp and mould in the home is a step towards preventing such tragedies. By providing comprehensive information and practical steps, this guidance aims to empower individuals to create safer and healthier living environments. It is crucial for housing authorities, landlords, and homeowners to take the necessary measures to ensure that homes are free from dampness and mould. Regular inspections, maintenance, and prompt remediation of any issues are key to preventing the harmful effects that can arise from these conditions. This guidance primarily targets social and private rented housing providers in England and their workforce, encompassing various accommodation providers. The document addresses the prevalence of damp and mould in homes and the associated health risks. It emphasises the vulnerability of certain populations, such as those in substandard housing, and introduces legislative standards for housing providers. The guidance outlines key legal standards related to damp and mould, including the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), the Environmental Protection Act 1990, the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, the Decent Homes Standard, and minimum energy efficiency standards for privately rented homes. It underscores the importance of complying with these standards and the potential legal consequences for non-compliance. The guidance provides insights into the health effects of damp and mould, covering respiratory and other physical health impacts, as well as mental health effects. It identifies groups at increased risk and highlights the barriers tenants may face in reporting damp and mould. The document also suggests ways landlords can support vulnerable tenants and offers recommendations for addressing damp and mould issues promptly. By prioritising the safety and well-being of individuals and families, we can work towards a future where no family has to endure the loss and suffering caused by preventable issues like mould. Get in-depth information
Damp and Mould in Rental Property
Understanding the issue Early detection of damp & mould issues in council housing & rental properties In the housing sector, combating mould and damp issues has long been a persistent challenge. Condensation, poor ventilation, outside conditions and structural flaws contribute to these problems, impacting tenant health and wellbeing It would be advantageous for landlords to be able to detect the early stages of damp and mould development. Early recognition of the issue could prompt timely action, mitigating potential long-term property damage and ensuring the wellbeing of tenants. Landlords could proactively uphold the living standards of their rental properties, fostering a positive tenant-landlord relationship and creating a more conducive and comfortable living environment. But it’s not a simple task. Detecting the early stages of damp and mould can be quite challenging, especially when considering various factors such as tenants’ reporting behaviour, the hidden nature of these issues, and the demanding nature of property management. It requires a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies involved and a proactive approach that involves consistent and thorough property checks, tenant education Managing large residential property portfolio Managing a large portfolio of properties adds another layer of complexity to the issue. In such cases, the challenge of promptly identifying and addressing damp and mould issues becomes even more daunting. The sheer scale of the properties to oversee, coupled with the diverse needs and behaviours of tenants, can significantly hinder the ability to detect these issues early. While managing a portfolio of properties, there is a heightened risk of inadvertently missing at-risk tenants who might be living in hazardous environments due to undetected damp and mould issues. The sheer scale of properties under management can make it challenging to give each unit the necessary attention it requires. Ensure the wellbeing of the tenants The responsibility for addressing damp and mould issues in a property falls to the property owner, housing management company or council. These organisations are accountable for maintaining the habitability and safety of the properties they oversee. Tenants have rights that ensure the property is kept in a good state of repair. The council or housing association is expected to take necessary measures to rectify any damp and mould issues promptly to comply with their legal obligations and ensure the wellbeing of their tenants. Given challenges, property management companies, councils or housing associations will benefit from implementing proactive measures, such as educating tenants about the signs of damp and mould, encouraging open communication, conducting comprehensive property inspections, and investing in smart sensor technology for early detection and monitoring of environmental conditions.
Net Zero Nations Projects Conference
Event Dedicated Commitmentto Net Zero Initiatives Halo Smart IoT, a leading provider of Smart Housing solutions, will be exhibiting at the Net Zero Nations Project Conference on 15th November 2023 in London. As a Silver Partner of the conference, Halo Smart IoT aims to showcase its cutting-edge technology and solutions to housing associations and council housing providers, highlighting the importance of healthier living environments through advanced monitoring capabilities. Halo Smart IoT’s advanced housing IoT sensors coupled with analytics platform offer real-time insights into property performance and conditions, enabling housing associations to proactively address health and wellbeing concerns. The data empowers housing associations to make informed decisions, implement necessary interventions, and create healthier living spaces for their tenants. About the event The Net Zero Nations Project Conference is known for its commitment to sustainability and environmental initiatives, making it the ideal platform for Halo Smart IoT to present its state-of-the-art sensors and IoT technology. With a focus on estate monitoring and achieving net-zero emissions, the conference will attract industry professionals and decision-makers seeking innovative solutions for the housing sector. Join us at the Net Zero Nations Projects Conference on the 15th of November at One Great George Street, Westminister, London Learn more
Procurex Wales 2023
Event Procurex Wales 2023 Halo Smart IoT is thrilled to sponsor Procurex Wales 2023 event in The Utilita Arena Cardiff on 8th November 2023, offering you the opportunity to explore firsthand how our solution enhances the housing sector Halo Smart IoT, a leading innovator in IoT sensors for smart housing technology, is proud to announce its sponsorship of the highly anticipated Procurex Wales event. Renowned for its ability to bring together professionals from the procurement and supply chain sectors, this event serves as an exceptional platform for Halo Smart IoT to showcase its cutting-edge housing IoT solution. Upgrading your conventional housing portfolio management system to an IoT solution is an essential step towards providing secure and healthy homes to your residents. Innovative solution enable homeowners and property managers to remotely monitor various aspects of their properties, ensuring efficient property management and enhanced security. As IoT technology advances, sensors and analytics platform have become an affordable and easy-to-install solution that provides real-time insights and updates on your property and residents’ conditions. Procurex Wales serves as an ideal platform for professionals in the procurement and supply chain sectors to stay abreast of the latest industry trends and innovations. With a diverse range of exhibitors and informative sessions, attendees can explore the cutting-edge solutions that can significantly improve their operations. Procurex Wales connects buyers and suppliers from across Wales’ public procurement sector worth more than £8.3bn annually. It’s a unique event that enables all stakeholders to learn about the latest developments shaping the future of this area – featuring extensive skills development, networking, collaboration and product showcase opportunities for public sector buyers and private sector organisations alike. Halo Smart IoT was delighted to sponsor the Go Awards Wales Awards Ceremony and to present the prestigious Individual of the Year award to Jane Lynch – Programme Director, Cardiff Business School & Centre of Public Value Procurement The Go Awards Wales is an esteemed event that recognises excellence and innovation in public procurement across Wales. It brings together industry leaders, government officials, and procurement professionals to celebrate outstanding achievements in this field. Halo’s sponsorship highlights our commitment to supporting and promoting excellence in procurement practices. We believe that recognising individuals like Jane, who have made significant contributions to their organisations and the procurement community as a whole, is essential for driving continuous improvement and raising standards. We are delighted to extend our warmest congratulations to Jane Lynch on her well-deserved recognition as the Individual of the Year!