The average number of new tenancies agreed per lettings branch rose 12.4% between January and April 2026, according to analysis from lettings technology provider Propoly, reaching 9.63 per branch by April. Over the previous 12 months, the increase was 9.9%.
The data, which tracked tenancy volumes per branch from April 2025 to April 2026, shows a brief dip to 8.57 at the start of the year before activity picked up sharply. Propoly says the trend highlights the growing administrative and compliance workload facing letting agents, and makes the case for integrated lettings technology platforms.
Rising volumes are broadly positive for the sector, but each new tenancy brings with it a range of tasks:
referencing, Right to Rent checks, deposit registration, documentation and ongoing tenancy management. As those tasks multiply, the cost of disconnected systems becomes more visible.
Propoly identifies five ways that integrated platforms can help agencies manage the pressure.
The first is creating a single source of truth across an agency's technology stack. Synchronising landlord, tenant and property data between systems reduces manual data entry, minimises errors and keeps information consistent throughout the tenancy lifecycle.
Second, integrated platforms can embed compliance directly into existing workflows. With regulatory requirements continuing to evolve, including those tied to the Renters' Rights Act, automated processes help ensure key checks and documentation are completed consistently without relying on manual intervention.
Third, centralising referencing, tenancy progression, contracts, compliance documentation and communications creates a comprehensive digital audit trail, helping agencies demonstrate compliance to landlords, tenants and regulators.
Fourth, automation frees agency teams from repetitive administrative tasks, allowing more time for customer service, tenancy management and risk mitigation. Integrations with referencing providers and deposit schemes can significantly reduce the burden of onboarding new tenants.
Finally, agencies with connected and automated compliance processes are better placed for future regulatory change. As compliance becomes a more important factor for landlords when selecting an agent, technology that supports those obligations is increasingly a competitive differentiator.
"Letting agents have never faced a shortage of technology solutions," said Sim Sekhon, group CEO at Propoly.
"The challenge today isn't finding software, it's making sure the software you use works together effectively.
"When tenancy volumes increase, every additional application, compliance check and document request creates more pressure on agency teams. If information has to be entered multiple times across different systems, that pressure quickly becomes an operational bottleneck.
"The agencies that are best positioned for the future won't necessarily be those with the largest technology stack. They'll be the ones with connected systems that remove duplication, automate routine processes, and create a clear audit trail from enquiry through to move-in.
"That's why at Propoly we have ensured seamless integration with other vital tech products that agents commonly use, such as Reapit, Street, Rex and, soon Alto, plus our own API stack.
"As regulation continues to evolve, integration is no longer just about efficiency. It's becoming a fundamental part of how agencies manage compliance, reduce risk and deliver a better experience for landlords and tenants alike."
