RICS has standardised the principles of building surveying for many years now, but with the most recent technological developments, building surveying could be shifting to new methods. 25 years ago, the first usage of the laser scanner was put into place which was the initial catalyst of change in this profession, but in the last 2 years, additional technological advancements are improving the quality, predictability and efficiency of this industry.
The use of laser scanning and 3D modelling has significantly increased the efficiency of surveyors by providing ultra-precise data rapidly, which improves the overall cost effectiveness. There was also the need for a rapid development of virtual site inspections, which help minimise the number of individuals needed onsite. This method enables a single site-based surveyor the ability to collaborate with team members via video communications which allowed operations to continue effectively throughout the pandemic.
Digital capture and image recognition software is giving building surveying a multitude of exhilarating opportunities with the ability to analyse data and pinpoint potential defects effectively. This technology is still in the early days of usage, however in the Netherlands, this technology is already being used for identifying road defects. Its automated analysis has successfully detected more than 95% of road defects such as cracks or potholes. There is quite a bit of future potential for crossover with this technology.
There is enormous benefits available for the surveying of tall buildings or hard to reach areas of large buildings with thermographic cameras attached to drones. The ability to identify potential performance issues in a structure so quickly and accurately offers not only a benefit in health and safety of surveyors, but also benefits the client with faster reporting.
The use of many of these techniques in the future will help to streamline and drastically improve building surveying. These newest technological developments will take building surveying efficiency and effectiveness to a whole new level.