Renting just got a whole lot easier as Howsy launches new renter app

At Howsy, we understand that repair issues are one of the most stressful things that can happen during a tenancy. After all, it happens in the home which is our sanctuary and where we expect to be secure and feel relaxed. Anyone who has ever had a leak or experienced a ceiling collapse or found the toilet doesn’t flush will know exactly what I mean. Our homes are special places, and we want them to be efficient, always.

However, we also acknowledge that sometimes unexpected issues occur, or gaskets and fixings simply wear out. Whatever happens, reporting a repair is the first and most important step. Knowing how to report it and to whom, what details to include and what happens next are all barriers to the problem being resolved quickly and efficiently.

We drilled right down into the process of reporting repairs, identified the pain points and came up with a solution that levels up the renter experience. It was clear that we could provide a new solution quickly that would further develop positive customer experiences. After all, at Howsy we understand that repairs are the number one complaint from tenants across the whole rental sector, and we wanted to make the whole experience better We made the decision that a bespoke app would put solutions right in the hands of tenants. That is a game changer.

The app allows repairs to be reported directly from a smartphone. Therefore, a tenant will always have access and can report any issues immediately. Each repair can be categorised and sorted into the appropriate type. The tenant simply states what’s happening and can add comments. In addition, there is the capacity to upload photos and videos. When repair professionals see the exact problem, they quote accurately in both cost and time.

Our goal was to cut wait times and also any friction. Tenants can see their report has been received, they can track it very easily and nothing falls between the cracks. We want speedy resolutions for any problem. It’s all tracked 24/7 and this will have a massive impact for renters.

We also decided to offer a new property search function. This was done because life and circumstances have a habit of changing fast. Renters may not want to leave the Howsy ecosystem, but they may need a flat or house in a different location or with more bedrooms or some outside space. Should they be looking for new property they can search by location, filters and property type. They can see their search results on the Howsy platform, book a viewing through the app and make an offer. 

More basic functions that are not sexy, but just as important, are a place to store all relevant tenancy documentation, including the lease and safety certificates and also when the next rent payment is due. It’s all designed to make life easy and with the year we’ve just experienced, who doesn’t want that?

At Howsy the product team continues to iterate and further develop what we offer. This process will never end and there are some more exciting features in the pipeline. We believe that this app will be a real selling point for landlords too. Renters can see they take repairs seriously and are brought into a system that actually works and puts the tenant right, left and centre of the process. I have always believed that tech should make life easier, not simply add another layer to an already complex life. We’ve worked hard to remove obstacles and we are so excited to see just how our renters make use of the app. ENDS

Click here to find out more about Howsy and what we have achieved to date.