07/08/2026
“What does a drone actually add to a building survey? 🚁
A drone can provide a much clearer view of roofs, chimneys and other high-level elements that may be difficult or impossible to inspect properly from ground level.
During a drone inspection, we may be looking for:
• Slipped, cracked or missing roof coverings
• Deteriorated chimney pots, flaunching and masonry
• Defective lead flashings
• Blocked or poorly formed valley gutters
• Damage around rooflights and penetrations
• Ponding or deterioration to flat roofs
• Defects hidden behind parapet walls
• Areas of previous repair or alteration
It can also help establish the overall roof arrangement and how different slopes, gutters, extensions and drainage points interact.
However, a drone does not remove every limitation.
It cannot see beneath roof coverings, confirm the condition of concealed timbers or prove that a roof is watertight. Weather, access restrictions, nearby buildings and aviation rules may also limit its use.
The images still need to be interpreted alongside the internal inspection, construction type, visible staining, moisture readings and the history of the property.
A drone is therefore not a substitute for surveying judgement.
It is another inspection tool that can provide better evidence and reduce uncertainty when used properly.”