An automated customer service platform that uses AI and is popular among the UK’s many housing associations has now launched into the private rented sector.

Built by proptech firm converse360, its Assist-Me platform is already talking to several big but unnamed estate agencies about its service, which offers agents an automated and scalable way to manage tenant communications.

This includes viewings, onboarding, improved rent collection, reducing arrears and voids, maintenance queries and meeting evolving compliance standards.

Assist-Me brings together a clutch of different technologies including AI and ‘chatbotgs’, enabling agents to manage tenants and tenancies around-the-clock via its app or website.

MD Richard Brown saying that his service frees up agents to focus on more complex and proactive issues, while providing consistency and compliance across interactions.

For example, by prompting tenants to their rent on time, the company says recent studies show that this reduces arrears by 25%, while platforms like Assist-Me generally help reduce call tenant call volumes.

It can be used alongside agents’ existing property management suites.

Tenant expectations have shifted.

Brown adds: “Tenant expectations have shifted. Agents need tools that deliver speed and flexibility without increasing admin or headcount. Assist-Me enables our [social] housing customers to offer a 24/7 self-service that understands up to 95% of inbound enquiries and takes the appropriate actions.

“We’re already in early discussions with residential lettings companies keen to streamline operations and enhance tenant service – a sign that demand for scalable, cost-effective, AI-powered automation is growing.”

The company was formed in 2018 by Brown together with Karl Roberts and Karl Dani and is UK-based.

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