At London PropTech Show 2024, held at ExCeL on February 27–28, the talk wasn’t just about smart homes or sensors—it was about what it really means to build smarter cities. With over 2,200 attendees, the event served as a barometer for how innovation, policy, and sustainability are converging across the built environment.
From Government Funding to Market Confidence
“We’re committed to scaling this sector,” said Housing Minister Lee Rowley MP, as he announced a fresh £4 million fund to accelerate digital transformation in property.
The UK PropTech sector is now valued at £14 billion, and the government made clear it sees that number growing.
More than just rhetoric, Rowley’s message confirmed something the industry already sensed: PropTech is no longer experimental. It's essential.
Real Estate Powered by Data, AI—and Tenants
Day One focused heavily on AI, data analytics, and tenant engagement tools.
Andrew Knight from RICS unpacked the role of predictive modelling in risk and asset performance. Sandra Donovan, CEO of Openbricks, argued for tenant-centric platforms that “respond in real time to real needs.”
From lease automation tools to digital maintenance dashboards, the message was clear: Smart means human-first.
Transport-led development also got attention. Places for London shared how it’s leveraging data to rethink land use around public infrastructure.
The Green Imperative: Tech for ESG and Efficiency
Day Two shifted toward sustainability and ESG.
Homes England presented tools to drive energy-efficient construction, while startups pitched solutions from carbon tracking to retrofitting analytics.
SwissPropTech’s Lars Sommerer urged investors to focus on “climate-aligned capital,” warning that regulation will favour tech-enabled compliance.
Startup showcases brought fresh urgency. Whether it was a Romanian firm digitising building permits or a London-based app making insulation data visible to buyers, these young companies made one thing clear: climate tech and PropTech are converging fast.
Key Takeaways
• £4M in public funding signals strong government backing – The UK is serious about PropTech as a national strategy, not just a niche.
• AI is reshaping the asset lifecycle – From planning to leasing, data tools are becoming integral.
• Tenant-first tools are winning – User experience is no longer optional; it’s central.
• Sustainability is now investor-grade – ESG isn’t just marketing. Tech solutions must support measurable environmental outcomes.
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