Between record-high housing prices and rising interest rates, prospective homebuyers have redirected their focus to multifamily living. In response to this shift, developers have accelerated multifamily construction in recent years, with the number of multifamily dwelling unit (MDU) completions reaching its highest level since 1986. To ensure their properties stand out, developers are prioritizing connectivity, high-speed data and smart technologies. They know today’s connected world demands the reliability and capabilities of advanced electrical and networking infrastructure.
Connected lifestyles
Remote and hybrid workers require robust internet connectivity and multiple device charging stations. According to a recent survey by the National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC) and Grace Hill, 90% of renters were interested in — or wouldn’t rent without — high-speed internet in an apartment. “MDU developers must implement a healthy network infrastructure for each unit, supported by comprehensive Wi-Fi coverage throughout the property,” says Bob Becker, chief operating officer of electrical at Leviton. “They also need the critical electrical infrastructure to power these networks and structured cabling and connectivity solutions for the infrastructure backbone.”
Finding networking and electrical solutions that offer ease of installation and long-term reliability is crucial. “For new construction, Leviton can integrate electrical and data pathways from the ground up, designing a cohesive and scalable foundation through our sales, applications and support teams,” Becker says. “Retrofits are more complex, requiring strategic planning to adapt and upgrade existing electrical and data infrastructure without major disruption.”
Electric vehicle options
Electric vehicles (EVs) make up a steadily growing percentage of consumer automobile purchases. Though only an estimated 5% of apartment communities have EV charging stations, some real estate leaders predict EVs could make up 90% of the car market by 2050. When that happens, EV charging will become as important as off-street parking.
Scaling EV chargers requires a solid electrical foundation, Becker says. “You need the chargers themselves backed by dedicated electrical circuits, heavy-duty wiring, EV-specific outlets or hard-wired EV chargers, and sufficient property-wide electrical capacity. For multiple chargers, advanced load management systems are crucial to prevent overloads,” he adds.
Sustainability sells
According to the NMHC survey, over 60% of apartment residents are willing to pay more to live in an environmentally friendly community. Similarly, 57% of residents are willing to pay at least $20 more per month in rent for a high-tech apartment, according to a survey by Entrata.
Submetering enables facility managers to monitor and manage energy data in detail. “Submetering and control solutions empower managers to optimize usage, allocate costs accurately and achieve long-term savings while ensuring code compliance,” Becker says. “They require the installation of wired or wireless meters at each unit or load point, driven back to a central system for data collection.”
Smart lighting, dimmers and occupancy sensors enhance apartment living while improving tenant safety. “For IoT devices like smart switches, outlets and sensors, the components are the devices themselves,” Becker says. “The infrastructure demands a stable electrical supply, proper circuitry and, if applicable, reliable network connectivity.”
These technologies also offer efficiencies for a property’s facilities team, Becker says: “Smart building systems automate tasks, reducing manual intervention and streamlining maintenance.”
Security advancements
MDUs are adopting advanced solutions and accident prevention practices to provide residents with safer spaces. According to Rently, 54% of renters expect smart locks, smart thermostats and security cameras. Well-lit common areas and outlets designed to prevent and/or notify tenants of electrical hazards can provide residents with a sense of security and peace of mind.
Intelligent lighting and advanced electrical outlets can also reduce potential liabilities and thus administrative burdens for efficiently managed properties, Becker says. “We don’t require complex, integrated solutions throughout the site. Simple products like motion-activated light switches exemplify how lower-cost devices can extend bulb lifespans and reduce maintenance needs and energy usage.”
Device compatibility eases usage and compatibility
The technologies and amenities that today’s tenants expect require a coordinated planning and installation effort. Choosing a single supplier for electrical and smart building systems can offer packaged offerings and ease technology integrations, Becker says. “It ensures seamless interoperability, as all components are designed to work together, eliminating compatibility issues and creating a truly integrated ecosystem.”
For example, Leviton can provide guidance to streamline the planning and design process and ensure optimal performance and code compliance across systems, Becker says. “Our LED compatibility tool ensures a seamless experience between light fixtures and dimmers by sharing the results of our extensive bulb and fixture testing and offering custom testing for developers upon request.”
Consolidating procurement also increases supply chain efficiency, reduces administrative overhead, and simplifies future hardware and software upgrades, enabling easier long-term maintenance and support. “Delivering integrated solutions across a broad spectrum of electrical and smart building needs is something few suppliers can offer to the multifamily market,” Becker says.
By investing in advanced networking, electrical and smart technology upgrades, multifamily property owners and operators can meet tenant expectations and improve their own bottom line.
