What Does Smart Building Software Cost Per Unit? The Cost Drivers Explained

Property professional reviewing costs on a laptop
Nov 13, 2026
Adam Hepworth

The short answer: smart building software is usually priced per unit per month (PUPM), with hardware and installation as separate one-time costs. The total for a property depends less on the software line and more on how much of your existing equipment can be reused, which modules you turn on, whether you need new network infrastructure, and how many properties share one standard. Ask every vendor for a quote built from these drivers, for your specific buildings.

The main cost drivers

  • Software subscription (PUPM). Varies with the modules you choose: resident app and PMS sync only, or access, smart apartment devices, Wi-Fi onboarding, energy and AI as well.
  • Hardware you can reuse. The biggest swing factor. A platform that works with your existing locks, access control and thermostats avoids replacement costs.
  • New hardware. Smart locks, thermostats, leak sensors, intercoms or hubs where a property has none, or where existing models can't be supported.
  • Network. Whether devices can run on existing connectivity or need a dedicated building network or gateways.
  • Installation and commissioning. Local integrator labor to install, connect and test devices and hand the building over to staff.
  • Scope and scale. Units, doors and properties. Repeating one standard across a portfolio is cheaper per property than custom projects.
  • Support. Who supports the property day to day, and what is included.

Where the return comes from

  • Labor: fewer manual access changes, lockouts and trips to vacant units.
  • SaaS consolidation: fewer separate apps and portals to pay for and manage.
  • Energy and water: vacant-unit setbacks and leak detection. Savings depend on the building and how it is run.
  • New income: resident services and ancillary programs managed through the same platform.
  • Retention: one app for the things residents do every day.

How to get a quote you can compare

  1. List each property's PMS, units, doors, lock and access models, intercom, thermostats and network.
  2. Decide which outcomes matter first, such as automated move-ins or energy setbacks.
  3. Ask each vendor to price software, hardware, installation and support separately, and to name any equipment it would replace and why.
  4. Ask what can start with software only. With Della OS, about 60% of capabilities need no new hardware.

How Della OS is priced

Della OS is offered in packages (Della OS, Della OS+ and Della OS with Smart Living Package) and is quoted by a certified integration partner after reviewing your buildings, because the right number depends on the drivers above. Ask for a quote for your portfolio.

Frequently asked questions

How much does smart building software cost for apartments?

It is usually priced per unit per month, plus one-time hardware and installation. The total depends on hardware reuse, modules, network needs, scope and portfolio size.

How much does multifamily building automation cost per unit?

There is no single figure. Ask for software, hardware, installation and support priced separately for your specific buildings.

Does Della OS publish pricing?

Della OS is quoted per portfolio by a certified integration partner, because cost depends on existing hardware, chosen package and scope.

Can I start without buying new hardware?

Yes. About 60% of Della OS capabilities, including PMS sync, the resident app, messaging, amenities, packages and maintenance, need no new hardware.

Book a walkthrough to see Della OS on one of your own properties, or browse the systems Della OS works with.

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