CASE STUDY: HOTEL CHAIN : UK WIDE

Introduction and Client Background

A longstanding client with a portfolio of large industrial sites across the Midlands required an urgent condition survey of several warehouse roofs. Many of these buildings had limited access and no existing safe means of roof inspection.

Objectives of the survey

The main objective was to assess the general condition of the roofing systems, particularly for signs of water ingress, membrane damage, and debris accumulation. The client needed to determine whether urgent repairs were necessary before winter and to inform their long-term maintenance budgeting.

Survey Methodology

After securing the necessary permissions and carrying out a risk assessment, we conducted a series of drone flights over the affected sites. High-resolution images and videos were captured from multiple angles, providing a full view of roof slopes, parapets, drainage points, and service penetrations.

All imagery was processed, annotated, and combined with on-ground observations to build a complete picture of the roof conditions. In some locations, we used thermal imaging to assess insulation performance and identify potential moisture build-up.

Findings and Solutions

The survey revealed several key issues:

• Ponding water on multiple flat roof sections

• Blocked drainage outlets and debris build-up

• Early signs of membrane blistering

• Dislodged coping stones on perimeter parapets

The drone imagery enabled the client to clearly see the location and scale of each issue. From this, we provided a priority-based maintenance plan with estimated costs, helping the client take proactive steps before problems escalated.

Outcome and Client Feedback

The client was impressed with both the speed and clarity of the findings. The visual documentation provided made internal approvals for remedial works faster and easier. Most importantly, the drone survey removed the need for temporary roof access or disruption to tenants, saving time and cost.

Conclusion

Drone surveys are transforming how we inspect and manage commercial buildings. At INform Surveying, we use drones not as a replacement for traditional surveying methods, but as a powerful complement that enhances access, improves safety, and delivers visual insight. This helps our clients act with clarity and confidence.

Whether you’re managing a complex portfolio or require a single-site assessment, our drone surveys bring a new level of precision and perspective to property inspections.

Interested in exploring how drone technology can support your property strategy?
Contact Inform Surveying today to find out how we can elevate your next building inspection.