What does Updater do for me?

Updater offers an easy way to care for your incoming residents during the stressful time of moving. With Updater’s platform helping to streamline the entire moving process, it means higher satisfaction for them, and time saved for you.

74% of renters wish that their management company offered moving assistance—and residents who have positive moving experiences tend to renew more often than those that don't.

Updater makes your life easier. Here's just some of what we offer you as a community manager:

• Fewer headaches. Easier moves for residents mean fewer problems for you and your team on move-in day.
• Increased adoption of partnerships. Drive residents to your preferred partnerships when they’re making decisions about their move.
• A dedicated success team. Our Client Success Team understands the needs of your business. We provide strategic guidance to get the maximum value from each and every one of your partnerships.
• Marketing resources. Access our Resource Center for helpful training and marketing materials that you can share with your site teams and residents.
• An expert moving support team. Our experienced Moving Support Team is available to help your residents with any moving-related they have. We field the questions, so you don’t have to.

Updater guides residents through your community's move-in requirements. For example, if your community requires that every resident set up an electric account, or that each resident hold a minimum in liability coverage, we're on it. Updater helps your residents stay on top of things so you can focus on other priorities. Check out the next FAQ (right below this line!) for more.

What does Updater do for my incoming residents?

Updater helps residents with any and all moving tasks to reduce the assistance needed from your onsite teams. That means providing the tools and information needed to do everything from securing insurance to setting up utilities and connecting TV and internet—all in one place.

Updater offers each of your residents an easy way to automate all key move-in tasks. Residents can efficiently:

• Shop for and secure a renters insurance policy that meets property requirements for move-in day
• Secure proof of Utilities: electric, gas and water services
• Compare, purchase and install TV and internet packages
• Register a pet, with functionality for property onsite staff to approve or deny the request
• Register a car for parking, with functionality for the property onsite staff to grant access
• Pay move-in fees as specified by building>
• Forward mail and update driver’s license
• Compare and reserve moving companies nationwide
• Book on-demand local delivery help for their moves

Each step of the process is personalized to their specific destination and moving timeline. We know that each home and community is unique, so we make it easy for you to update specific requirements and prepare a resident for move-in day through Updater. Just log in to your Updater dashboard, then click on the Properties tab. Select the community you want to edit, and check out the "Property Info" tab. You'll see a variety of information about the community, from address to preferred TV provider. Feel free to edit any of these. Learn more.

You can also check out instructional videos on setting your community's providers TV service, utilities , and renters insurance.

Curious for more info on what we offer your residents? Click here.

You can also learn more about the communications we send to your residents.

What will I have to do?

Updater was designed with your onsite teams in mind. Updater runs completely behind the scenes, so there's very little work required for your team. (Technically it's not magic, but it's pretty close.)

Updater supports you best when residents know how to use it. Don't be shy about recommending that your residents take advantage of Updater—the more they do, the easier your life will be. Learn more about Updater's features for residents.

Where can I learn more?

The Help Center is here to answer all of your questions. For additional information, continue reading with our article on getting started with Updater.

Have a question that’s not answered by our FAQs? Please contact our team at [email protected].

Get started with Updater

Updater was designed with your onsite teams in mind, which means we’re here to help, not add more work to your day. Our platform does a lot of work behind the scenes, so there's not much you need to do.

Read on for more about how to get the most out of your partnership with us, and how to get your community going on Updater.

FAQs in this article:

• How does Updater work?
• What information does Updater need?
• Is residents' information safe with Updater?
• When do residents receive invites to Updater?
• What if a resident doesn't get their invite?
• What else should I do to get started with Updater?
• What do I have to do for Updater to work?

How does Updater work?

Updater is a digital moving assistant. Our technology integrates directly with your property management software, which gives us resident information in real time as you’re leasing units.

Once Updater has the required information, it will run effortlessly behind the scenes. We'll automatically send new residents invites to Updater, and they'll be able to manage all the details of their move. You won't have to do anything else—other than enjoy the perks of happier residents and fewer moving headaches. Learn more about how we communicate with your residents.

What information does Updater need?

Your property management software must have the following information for all of your residents:

• First and last name
• Email address
• Move date
• Address(es) that the resident is moving to and/or from

It's that simple.

Is residents' information safe with Updater?

We want to be very clear: we never share, rent, or sell your company's or your residents' data to third parties. As outlined in our privacy policy, Updater will only use the data that you share about your residents to facilitate delivering the product and offering our various services. Updater integrates directly with leading property management software for one reason only: to automatically send your residents a co-branded invitation to use the app.

For more information, check out our privacy policy.

When do residents receive invites to Updater?

Using our proprietary technology, we determine the best possible time to send an Updater invite to each new resident. If a resident signs a lease close to their move-in date, we'll send an invite the next business day.

Residents can also go to updater.com, enter the email address that they used to lease their unit, and instantly trigger an email invite.

For more details on how invites are scheduled for your community, contact success@updater.com.

You can also Learn more about how we communicate with your residents.

What if a resident doesn't get their invite?

If a resident in your community doesn't receive an invite to Updater, start by making sure that all of their required information is in your property management software.

If that checks out, get in touch with us. The resident can also visit updater.com and enter their email to trigger an invite.

What else should I do to get started with Updater?

There's one simple step: talk to your residents about Updater! Tell them about how you'll help streamline all their moving-related tasks in one simple platform. They just need to check their email for an Updater invite.

When your residents use Updater, you'll enjoy better operational efficiency and potentially increased partnership revenue. We direct residents to your preferred providers, so you could see an immediate benefit to your bottom line.

We'll automatically send invites to residents based on their move-in dates and lease approvals. You don’t need to do anything. Because Updater gets resident information directly from your property management software, every resident has an experience customized to fit their unique move. Learn more about how Updater communicates with your residents.

Residents can also go to updater.com to request their invites, as long as they've met your criteria and don’t want to wait to start their moving tasks.

What do I have to do for Updater to work?

We’ve designed Updater to run completely behind the scenes, so there's very little work required for you or your team.

One simple step ensures that you’ll get the most out of our partnership: talk to your clients about Updater! Tell them about how you'll help streamline all of their moving-related tasks in one simple platform. They just need to check their email for an Updater invite.

Updater gets important data about your clients' moves by connecting with your transaction management system. Those integrations let us help your clients at exactly the right times. (Technically it's not magic, but it's pretty close.)

Updater will always send you a notification 2 days before your client's move.

You can also let prospective clients know that you offer Updater, so they know about the extra value that you offer.

Explore Updater's key features

Updater was designed with your onsite teams in mind. The magic all starts from the Updater dashboard. It's customized and co-branded with your community, so your residents get tools that are relevant and useful for their moves.

Updater helps residents with any and all moving tasks to reduce the assistance needed from your onsite teams. The features below highlight how we help take the stress out of moving and save your team time.

FAQs in this article:

• How does Updater help my residents move?
• How does Updater help my residents set up their new homes?

How does Updater help my residents move?

We provide residents with the tools and information they need to make their moves easy. Prepared residents = fewer questions for your site teams.

Move-in
Seamlessly automate all key move-in tasks for new residents. They can pay their move-in fees, share proof of utilities and insurance, and register their pets or vehicles.

Set up utilities
Residents can easily set up all of their utilities – gas, water, and electricity – in one place.

Purchase TV and Internet
Compare, purchase and install TV and internet packages. We’ll help you find the fastest speeds and most affordable providers in your area.

Secure insurance
Your residents can handle insurance from the Updater dashboard. If your community requires renters insurance, we’ll let them know, and include the exact requirements. Learn how to set up preferred insurance providers.

Move belongings
Residents can coordinate their physical moves directly through Updater. Depending on how far they're moving, we'll show options to get their stuff from Point A to Point B. Learn more about finding movers through Updater.

Forward mail
Members of your community can skip that trip to the post office. In just a few clicks, each new resident can file their official USPS mail forwarding form. We'll even pre-fill the form with their new address—and they won't pay a dime extra.

Access your community's resident portal
Members of your community can go directly from the Updater dashboard to your community's resident portal. Depending on how you've set up your portal, residents can manage move-in day tasks like booking an elevator or letting the front desk know when they'll arrive.

How does Updater help my residents set up their new homes?

We provide residents with the tools and information needed to not only make their moves easy, but also help them feel at home faster in your community.

Connect utilities
Residents can seamlessly sign up, transfer, or disconnect their electric, gas, and water services. Updater lets them know which utilities your community requires, along with which utility companies to use.

Hook up TV and internet
Members of your community can compare cable and internet packages and schedule installation directly through Updater. If you set a preferred provider for your community, we'll suggest that provider to your residents. Learn how to set a preferred TV and internet provider.

Explore move-in offers
Moving can be expensive, so we're here to help. We'll show your residents timely discounts and deals within Updater. They might even want to treat themselves for a job well done.

Check out the local guide
The local guide showcases local services, amenities, and businesses that your community trusts and adores. It's a great directory for residents who are new to the neighborhood. Make sure to add your top picks and make the guide a valuable resource for your community. Learn how to use your Updater dashboard.

Use your dashboard

The power of Updater lives in the dashboard. It's your one-stop shop for accessing all of our tools, and using it is a breeze. We've got an overview and some tips for you to make the most of it.

FAQs in this article:

• What is the dashboard?
• How do I use the dashboard?
• What if I have a problem using the dashboard?

What is the dashboard?

The dashboard is your destination for interacting with Updater. You will be able to monitor your residents’ engagement with Updater and their task progress. The Dashboard also gives you access to custom data reports, a resident directory, and configurable settings for your preferred providers, Updater profile, and move-in requirements.

Update preferred TV and internet providers

• 1. Log in to Updater.
• 2. Select the “Settings” tab from the left side navigation.
• 3. Select the appropriate community from the “Properties” section.
• 4. Select the “Task Configuration” tab that is under the property name displayed in bold.
• 5. Under Task Configuration, you will see a toggle to “turn on” the TV & Internet Task.
• 6. Once the task is toggled, you will be able to add a preferred provider by clicking the “Add provider” button below the section title.
• 7. To edit providers you've already added, click the icon on the right side of the toggle.
• You will be able to search for the name of the provider, click the provider name when it appears below the search box, and then click the blue Link button below.
• You're done! If your community has a bulk agreement or exclusive marketing agreement, or is only wired to support a specific provider, let us know at [email protected].

• 1. Log in to Updater.
• 2. Select the Settings tab from the left side navigation.
• 3. Select the appropriate community from the Properties section.
• 4. Select the Task Configuration tab that is under the property name displayed in bold.
• 5. Under Task Configuration, you will see a toggle to “turn on” each utility individually. There will be options for Electricity, Gas, and Water.
• 6. Once the task is toggled, you will be able to add a preferred provider by clicking the Add Provider button below the section title.
• 7. To edit providers you've already added, click the icon on the right side of the toggle.
• 8. You will be able to search for the name of the provider. We'll automatically show providers based on your community's zip code.
• 9. At the bottom of the pop-up screen , you will also see a toggle to indicate whether the resident must submit proof of coverage. Once this is toggled, residents will be required to attach documentation to confirm they’ve completed the task successfully.
• 10. You will also be able to add specific directions to instruct residents on how you’d like the task to be completed.
• 11. Click the provider name when it appears below the search box, and then click the blue Save Changes button below.
• 12. You're done!

• 1. Log in to Updater.
• 2. Select the Settings tab from the left side navigation.
• 3. Select the appropriate community from the Properties section.
• 4. Select the Task Configuration tab that is under the property name displayed in bold.
• 5. Under Task Configuration, you will see a toggle to “turn on” Renter’s Insurance.
• 6. Once the task is toggled, you will be able to add a preferred provider by clicking the Add Provider button below the section title.
• 7. To edit providers you've already added, click the icon on the right side of the toggle.
• 8. You will be able to search for the name of the provider or add a custom referral link.
• 9. At the bottom of the pop-up screen , you will also see a toggle to indicate whether the resident must submit proof of coverage. Once this is toggled, residents will be required to attach documentation to confirm they’ve completed the task successfully.
• 10. You will be able to add specific directions to instruct residents on how you’d like the task to be completed.
• 11. Click the provider name when it appears below the search box, and then click the blue Save Changes button below.
• 12. You will also have the option of editing insurance requirements for individual residents directly from the Resident Details page.
• 13. You're done!

How do I use the dashboard?

Start by logging in to Updater. Once you do, we'll take you to your dashboard.

Here are some actions you might want to take once you're there:

• Check the status of each resident’s move. This will allow you to see what each resident has completed and what remains. You will be able to filter by property or search by resident or unit number.
• Analyze data and reports on your Updater activity. This includes invites, signups, trends in task completion, and total orders for your preferred providers.
• Set up company branding and key information, including property details, key contacts, web and social links, and a connection to your resident portal.
• Configure move-in tasks and preferred providers in your property settings. You can specify which tasks you want your residents to complete, from setting up utilities to paying their move-in costs. You can also set preferred providers under task and provide specific instructions for added context.

What if I have a problem using the dashboard?

We're here for you. Just reach out to [email protected].

How Updater communicates with your residents

You might be curious about what your residents receive directly from Updater. Rest assured that we take data privacy very seriously. Here's a guide to understanding the kinds of communication we send, so you're never in the dark.

FAQs in this article:

• Why does Updater send emails to residents?
• What kinds of communications does Updater send?
• What value do Updater communications have for me?
• What if someone doesn't want to receive emails?

Why does Updater send emails to residents?

Our communications complement the Updater app, and make sure that your residents have the timely reminders they need for a successful move. Rather than only offer the app, we engage and help people throughout the entire moving process—and email is a big part of staying in touch with them.

Your residents will automatically get invites to Updater, because Updater integrates with your property management software. Most communities are set up to trigger Updater invites as soon as each renter's lease application is approved in your system. We only send invites to residents who have signed a lease.

Data privacy is extremely important to us. Learn more about our commitment to privacy.

What kinds of communications does Updater send?

We send emails to keep residents engaged and up-to-date on their moving tasks. Here are some example emails:

• Invite to Updater. This is residents' first taste of Updater, and it shows them how much we can help during the stressful process of moving. It's triggered only after a resident signs a lease, and happens automatically through Updater's integration with your property management software.
• Advice on budgeting for a move
• Reminder to forward mail
• Last-minute moving checklist

What value do Updater communications have for me?

To kick off the whole process, residents receive an invite to Updater that's co-branded with your community. As we send them emails, they see more and more evidence that you're on top of the move, and want to be of service.

By helping moves go smoothly, our communications also make life just a little bit easier for everyone involved... including you.

What if someone doesn't want to receive emails?

We won't send invites to residents who don't want to receive them. If you have an incoming resident who doesn't want to get emails from us, reach out to us at [email protected].

Keep in mind that if a resident unsubscribes from Updater emails, they won't get emails from Updater for your or any other communities they might move to in the future.

How residents set up TV and internet

As soon as one of your residents creates their Updater account, they'll see the option to set up TV and internet on the Updater dashboard. Here's a step-by-step guide to making it happen, so they can get back to working from home—or a prestige drama binge. Feel free to share these steps directly with residents if they have questions about the process.

Don't forget to update TV and internet settings for your community. We've got you covered with a quick, step-by-step video on how to make it happen. You can also get step-by-step instructions right here in the Help Center.

FAQs in this article:

• How do residents start setting up TV and internet?
• How do residents select and contact a provider?

How do residents start setting up TV and internet?

Residents can set up their TV and internet in a few easy steps:

1. Login to the Updater app
2. You can set up your services from the Essentials Tab.
3. Click the Set up Internet/TV card.
4. Answer the questions that appear.
5. First, we'll ask whether they want to set up a new service or transfer existing service. They'll also see providers that they can choose from, starting with your community's preferred provider.
6. Continue through the following questions.

How do residents select and contact a provider?

Once a resident answers a few questions, they'll see cable and internet package options that match their preferences.

How residents secure renters insurance

Residents can compare and purchase renters insurance directly through Updater. We'll showcase your community's liability coverage requirements, as well as your preferred insurance provider. It's another way we take the stress out of moving.

Don't forget to review renters insurance settings for your community. We've got you covered with a quick, step-by-step video on how to make it happen. You can also get step-by-step instructions right here in the Help Center.

FAQs in this article:

• How will residents know about required coverage?
• Does Updater show my residents different insurance options?

How will residents know about required coverage?

With the help of your Success Manager, you'll set your minimum required liability coverage and preferred provider. If you don't set a preferred provider, Updater will offer different provider options to your residents.

Does Updater show my residents different insurance options?

If you have an exclusive partner for renters insurance, we'll show your residents only that provider. If you don't have an exclusive partner (or you do but haven't told us), we'll show your residents different options for renters insurance.

When residents are shown both the community's preferred provider and other options, they choose the preferred provider 85% of the time. That makes life easier for residents, and helps drive more revenue for your community's partnerships.

Residents' Updater dashboards will show the option to secure renters insurance as soon as they open their Updater accounts. For communities that require renters insurance, we'll add a “Required” banner to give them a heads-up.

Once a resident has selected a provider, we'll send them to the provider's website to complete the process. Once they purchase a policy, they'll need to manually send you their proof of insurance.

How residents connect utilities

Utilities are one of the first and most important tasks for residents to handle when they move into a new home. Updater simplifies the process by telling them about your community's requirements and suggesting local providers who can provide what they need. Don't forget to update your utility requirements and providers.

How do residents know which utilities to set up?

Each resident's dashboard will show the option to set up utilities as soon as they open their Updater account.

This will be displayed on the Essentials Tab.

They'll see providers for gas, electric, and water. We'll let them know which utilities are required based on your community's requirements.

We automatically add utility providers based on your community’s zip code. As a community manager, you can also tailor the options from your Updater dashboard.

How residents move belongings through Updater

Updater knows how much stuff goes into moving. That's why we offer help getting everything from Point A to Point B. Depending on your resident's move, they'll see the option to move with either Dolly or Move Your Stuff. (Dolly is currently available only for local moves, and in select areas.)

Did you know that 74% of residents wish their communities offered moving services? At Updater, we work with vetted moving companies to offer new residents a seamless moving experience. We can set your residents up with help moving only a few large items, or their entire home.

FAQs in this article:

• How does Dolly work for short-term moves?

How can Updater help with long-distance moves?

When residents click Move Your Stuff on the Updater dashboard, we'll ask what they're looking to move, and whether they need movers or just a truck.

How does Dolly work for short-term moves?

For local moves, Dolly gives residents the ability to book, track, and tip all through the Dolly app. It puts residents completely in control of their moving logistics.

They'll start by providing a few simple details about their move.

Once residents book a local move with Dolly, they'll get live updates. On moving day, they can track where movers are throughout the process, and get easy access to movers' contact details.