Drones for Roof Inspections
Published on 19 October 2020
United Kingdom
This is the good practice's implementation level. It can be national, regional or local.
About this good practice
There is an ongoing need to inspect the roofs of local authority buildings in order to detect damage or maintenance issues that need addressing.
Council buildings have to be inspected at least once every five years. Typically this involves erecting scaffolding which is costly. It also requires workers to 'work at height' which carries the risks of falls and injuries.
By performing the roof inspections using modern drone platforms there are considerable savings to the tax payer, and savings from public funds can be used elsewhere.
Council buildings have to be inspected at least once every five years. Typically this involves erecting scaffolding which is costly. It also requires workers to 'work at height' which carries the risks of falls and injuries.
By performing the roof inspections using modern drone platforms there are considerable savings to the tax payer, and savings from public funds can be used elsewhere.
Resources needed
No additional staff required. Thermal imaging drone can be purchased for as little as 1500 euros.
Evidence of success
Repeat surveys at other council assets. The cost saving benefits are the key driver for using drones in this application area. For example a conventional roof survey on a certain main building, will cost the local authority upwards of £20,000 and may take up to two weeks to complete. The same survey conducted by drone can be completed in a day or two, and costs approx. £2000, a £18,000 saving.
Potential for learning or transfer
Any local authority could adopt this practice and realise cost savings.
Further information
Website
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.
Organisation
Lancashire County Council
United Kingdom
Lancashire
Contact