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A drone survey is a visual inspection of the parts of a building that cannot be seen safely or clearly from the ground. A camera mounted on a small unmanned aircraft captures high resolution photographs and video of roof coverings, chimney stacks, flashings, valleys, parapets, gutters and upper wall surfaces.
The images are reviewed by a RICS regulated surveyor, who interprets what they show and explains the condition of each element in plain terms. The result is a clear record of the building at roof level, supported by professional advice rather than photographs alone.
Roofs and chimneys are among the most common sources of water penetration and costly repair, yet they are often the hardest parts of a building to inspect. From the ground, slipped or missing slates, deteriorated pointing to chimney stacks, defective flashings and blocked or leaking gutters can easily be missed.
A drone allows these areas to be photographed closely and from several angles in a single visit. This is particularly helpful on tall, steep or fragile roofs, on buildings with restricted access, and where a ladder inspection would not be safe or practical.
Drone photography can also be used to monitor a known defect over time, to check the progress or quality of roofing works, or to provide evidence following storm damage for an insurance claim.
Many of the buildings we inspect are listed or of traditional construction, with complex roof forms, tall chimneys and historic materials that should not be disturbed unnecessarily. A drone inspection allows these areas to be assessed without placing loads on fragile coverings or fixing access equipment to historic fabric, and helps us plan proportionate repairs using appropriate materials.
Before any flight we review the site, its surroundings and the weather, and agree the areas to be inspected with you. Flights are planned in line with Civil Aviation Authority rules, with care taken over neighbouring properties and privacy.
On site, the aircraft is flown around the building to capture overlapping still images and, where helpful, video footage. Most domestic properties can be covered in a single short visit, and the building does not need to be vacated.
Following the inspection we provide a report with annotated photographs, a description of the condition of each element inspected, and recommendations for any repairs or further investigation. Where defects are found, we explain their likely cause and how urgently they should be addressed.
Drone inspections depend on suitable weather and may be restricted near airfields or in other controlled locations. Where this applies we will tell you before the inspection and discuss alternative arrangements.
Drone photography is often combined with our RICS Level 2 and Level 3 surveys, giving a far clearer view of roof level defects than a ground based inspection can provide.
For commercial clients, aerial images add detail to Schedules of Condition, dilapidations assessments, pre-acquisition surveys and planned preventative maintenance reports, particularly on large or complex roofs.
The photographs also provide a dated record of condition, which can be useful when agreeing repairs with contractors, neighbours or insurers.
If you would like to know whether a drone inspection is suitable for your property, please contact us on 01691 898560 or at info@sjmsurveyors.co.uk and we will be happy to advise.
Our commercial services encompass the full life cycle of a property for clients who own, occupy, develop or fund commercial real estate. We go above and beyond on every project we undertake, enabling you to benefit from traditional RICS Regulated building surveying practice combined with our local knowledge and experience.
Dilapidations refer to breaches of lease covenants relating to the condition of a property. Our reports help landlords and tenants identify and address repair liabilities, whether during or at the end of a lease.
A detailed record of a property's condition at a specific point in time. Our Schedule of Condition reports provide vital protection in lease agreements and disputes, helping to limit future liabilities.
Ensure your property stays in optimal condition with a structured maintenance plan. Our PPM reports identify future repair needs, helping you budget effectively and avoid unexpected failures.
Gain a clear understanding of a property's true condition before you commit. Our Pre-Acquisition Surveys provide detailed, professional insight—helping you make informed decisions and avoid costly surprises.
The Level 3 Building Survey is best suited to clients buying older, more unusual properties that may also require renovation or modernisation. This survey is also suitable for Grade listed buildings.
The Level 3 Building Survey is best suited to clients buying older, more unusual properties that may also require renovation or modernisation. This survey is also suitable for Grade listed buildings.
