Ask anyone in block management what makes the sector tick, and they’ll probably mention partnerships: collaborations between agents, suppliers, freeholders, developers, RMCs and site teams. Success hinges on people and systems working in sync. The same is now true for PropTech. As our sector becomes more complex – with rising compliance demands and growing resident expectations – software providers have learned a powerful lesson: we’re better when we build together.
In my role, I speak to a wide range of stakeholders, including software partners. One thing’s clear: no single system can do it all. Success lies in connected platforms that share data intelligently, reduce duplication and get the right information to the right people – fast. That’s the beauty of integration.
Let’s decode that word. "Integration" isn’t just jargon. It’s shorthand for something technical yet transformational: the API.
What is an API?
API stands for Application Programming Interface. It acts like a translator between systems, enabling them to share data securely and in real time.
Think of your accounting software linking directly to your bank – no manual uploads, just real-time data. That’s an API at work. In block management, it’s the same idea – whether it’s safety data feeding into a dashboard or utility bills landing in Dwellant ready for validation.
Why now?
Until recently, software companies built closed systems, wary of sharing data. But the tech – and the mindset – has matured. Most now recognise it’s better to be excellent at one thing and integrate with others than try to do it all.
Trust has grown too. Property management is a close-knit community, built on long-standing relationships. Conferences, awards and roundtables have fostered a culture of collaboration. As a petrolhead, I’ve spent countless weekends under the bonnet of cars. One thing I’ve learned: the original setup isn’t always the best. I’ve replaced factory-fitted parts with smarter, more efficient upgrades — not because the car was broken, but because it could run better. The same applies to software. Why stick with one rigid system when you can integrate best-in-class tools and improve overall performance?
Accounting systems: the backbone of integration
At the heart of Dwellant’s integrations is a connection to a managing agent’s accounting system. These systems form the backbone of block management operations, holding the core data about leases, properties and service charges. Dwellant integrates with ten different accounting systems, making it uniquely placed to connect the dots across the tech stack.
By plugging into these systems, Dwellant becomes a hub – relaying data between platforms in a language the accounting system understands. This enables third-party tools to interact, even with systems that don’t have open APIs.
That’s an important point. In many cases, these core systems weren’t designed to be open. But Dwellant has invested in the gateway technology needed to bridge the gap, paving the way for a more integrated, collaborative sector.
Integration in action
We ‘API’ with Adiuvo for out-of-hours emergencies, giving handlers instant access to key building info. For building safety, we pull in golden thread data from H&S platforms, helping agents stay compliant under the Building Safety Act.
We also work with energy brokers, streamlining bill validation and payment using AI. With Intrimail, mass communications are automated. For CRM, our integrations support developers and build-to-rent clients in delivering seamless resident journeys, from marketing to move-in. Platforms like Safecontractor let agents verify contractor credentials instantly.
It’s about reducing risk, improving visibility, and freeing up property professionals to do what they do best: solve problems and build trust.
A final thought
No one platform anticipated the full demands of the BSA. No provider has all the answers. But together, we’re getting closer. Dwellant has evolved from a bolt-on to the single source of truth for thousands of developments, thanks to the integrations we’ve built and the partnerships we’ve nurtured.
Yes, integration has challenges. But the direction is clear: better systems, better teamwork, better outcomes.
And for residents? Integrated systems mean slicker apps, clearer communication, faster responses and stronger communities. When platforms connect and people collaborate, everything runs better.
Karl Lewis, Commercial Director at Dwellant
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