West Midlands drone survey inspections
Raising home survey standards with an elevated perspective in the West Midlands
Address these risks with a West Midlands drone survey inspection
GB Home Surveys’ dedicated team of chartered surveyors has spent years helping residents move to and from the West Midlands. Now, we’re delighted to offer add-on drone survey inspections to our standard RICS home survey services.
As chartered surveyors in the West Midlands, we’re governed by RICS and conduct our services per RICS frameworks. Our RICS Home Survey Level 2 or Home Survey Level 3 provide detailed insight into the property you’re thinking of buying or selling.
As an optional extra, we can use UAVs (drones) equipped with high-resolution cameras to captured detailed images of roofs, chimneys and other hard-to-see areas. These provide much-needed additional information about the condition and value of any West Midlands home.
Why many West Midlands properties need a drone survey inspection
The West Midlands is the heart of the country.
Home to the UK’s second-largest city, it’s a place of hustle and bustle.
Packed with cultural hubs like Coventry, Wolverhampton, Shrewsbury, Lichfield and Stratford-upon-Avon, it’s also known for its cultural diversity.
Rapid development since the Industrial Revolution led to a mix of housing types, from terraced homes for the factory workers of Birmingham to the grander properties of the industrial elite.
Today, the property market still reflects this history, with a blend of traditional Victorian homes, modern developments and a high demand for urban living. These older homes are more prone to roof problems because of their age and the typical materials and methods used in the Victorian era. Things like slate or lead flashing wear out over time. Plus, complex (and sometimes rushed) roof designs sometimes hide issues like leaks or damage that might not be obvious from the ground.
That’s where a drone survey inspection can help.
What happens in a West Midlands drone survey inspection?
Our drone survey inspections come as an optional add-on to our RICS Home Survey Level 2 or RICS Home Survey Level 3. Each of our chartered surveyors is fully trained and licensed to operate a drone.
They’ll begin the drone flight at an appropriate time during the survey. Once it reaches a suitable elevation, the surveyor flies the drone to various points around the property and uses the mounted camera to snap high-quality photos. They’ll focus specifically on areas around the roof, chimneys and any other high-up spots that can’t be seen from the ground. Each drone can fly for around 35 minutes, plus a few minutes on either side for taking off and landing safely.
After the chartered surveyor finishes the survey, they’ll return to our West Midlands office and produce your report. This will include all the information they’ve gained from the drone survey inspection and at least four photographs. You’ll get this report within seven working days.
What might your West Midlands drone survey inspection unveil?
With a high percentage of Victorian-era homes, especially in cities and town centres, our drone inspections may uncover any number of unseen issues. Here are some of the most common issues we look for:
- Damaged chimneys – When older chimneys crack or deteriorate, water gets into the home and can cause havoc.
- Cracked or missing tiles - Cracked or missing tiles – heavy rain and wind dislodge or break roof tiles, causing leaks and expensive repair jobs.
- Poorly maintained flashing – lead or mortar flashing will eventually crack or lift, allowing water to seep in.
- Blocked gutters – Debris in gutters might lead to water build-up, which can damage the roof and walls.
- Moss and algae growth - Damp conditions encourage moss to grow, which, in turn, retains moisture that can degrade roof tiles.
- Roofline cracks – As homes settle, cracks might appear in the roofline. This is often a sign of underlying structural movement from subsidence.
What are the benefits of a drone survey in the West Midlands?
While older homes often carry more risk, every property comes with its own potential issues. That’s where the high-resolution photographs from our drones give you peace of mind. But the benefits don’t end there:
Check for hidden issues:
Buying a house with roof problems means the elements get in. Avoid the risks of damp, rot, mould, structural issues or heating problems by thoroughly checking the roof before signing on the dotted line.
Time and cost-effective:
Although drone technology is still evolving, we’ve come a long way. Our drones are small, light and easy to launch. They stay in the air for around 35 minutes, which is plenty of time to get lots of useful images.
Important for unusual roofs:
The West Midlands has its fair share of unique, historic and extravagant architecture. Reassure yourself that the roof’s still in good condition before you commit.
Non-invasive surveying approach:
With a drone, there’s no need for the surveyor to put up any scaffolding or find a vantage point from elsewhere. Plus, the current owner won’t have to clear a path, so they’re more likely to be on board.
Expert analysis included:
After the inspection, including the drone survey, is complete, the chartered surveyor will analyse the images from the drone. They’ll include their findings (good or bad) in the report they send you.
Know what you’re buying:
Buying a house is, for most people, the most expensive purchase of their lives. The more you know, the better. Put the effort in now so you aren’t hit with any nasty surprises later.
Get the best perspective with GB Home Surveys
No matter your requirements, our drone survey inspections pair with a RICS Home Survey Level 2 or Level 3 to maximise your investment. Work with us to give yourself the best chance at avoiding the common pitfalls.
If you’re ready to take your home survey to new heights, get in touch with GB Home Surveys today. Our drone survey inspections bring even more reassurance and even greater peace of mind. Contact us to book your appointment today.
Why choose GB Home Surveys?
GB Home Surveys is your local West Midlands chartered surveyor, here to make buying or selling a home clear and straightforward. With over 30 years of experience, we give you everything you need to make a confident, informed decision. Our optional drone survey inspections add even more value to our trusted RICS home survey reports, offering a clear view of hard-to-reach areas and a smarter way to spot potential issues early.
