If you’ve had a survey carried out by us over the last few years, there’s a chance we’ve used a drone as part of the inspection.
Until now, we’ve brought in specialist drone operators whenever a property needed a closer look at roofs or other areas that couldn’t be inspected easily or safely from the ground.
Having seen how useful the technology is, we’ve decided to invest in our own drone so we can carry out these inspections ourselves.
It’s not about replacing traditional surveying methods. It’s simply another tool that helps us gather better information where it’s appropriate.
Where a drone helps
Roofs are an obvious example. From the ground, it’s often impossible to see the condition of roof coverings, chimney stacks, valleys, flashing or gutters in any real detail.
A drone allows us to get much closer without the need for ladders, scaffolding or access platforms during the initial inspection. We can capture clear photographs and video, giving both us and our clients a much better view of what’s actually there.
It’s particularly useful for inspecting:
- Roof coverings
- Chimneys
- Gutters and downpipes
- High-level brickwork
- Flat roofs
- Larger commercial buildings
- Older and listed properties
Just as importantly, the images become part of the survey report, making it much easier to explain any issues we’ve identified.
Why bring it in-house?
The biggest benefit is flexibility.
Rather than arranging a separate visit with an external drone operator, we can incorporate drone inspections into our surveys whenever they’re needed. That means fewer delays and a smoother process for our clients.
It also allows us to decide on site whether using the drone will add value, rather than having to make that decision beforehand.
It’s still the surveyor that matters
People sometimes assume that because a drone produces detailed images, it somehow replaces part of the surveying process.
It doesn’t.
The drone shows us what we can’t easily see from the ground. What it can’t do is interpret those images, assess the significance of a defect or advise a client on what should happen next.
For example, it might reveal slipped tiles, damaged pointing or defects to a chimney. Understanding whether those issues are cosmetic, maintenance-related or signs of something more significant still relies on professional judgement and experience.
There are practical limitations too. Weather conditions, nearby buildings and aviation regulations all affect where and when a drone can be used, so it isn’t the right solution for every property.
Another tool in the toolbox
Surveying has always evolved as new technology becomes available, and drones are no different.
They allow us to inspect some properties more safely and more efficiently while giving clients a clearer understanding of what we’ve found.
Ultimately, though, the value isn’t in the drone itself. It’s in combining good technology with experienced surveying, so clients receive clear, practical advice they can rely on.
That’s exactly how we’ll be using it at Conway Chartered Surveyors.
