The future of Residential Surveying
Tom Langdown MSC, MRICS residential surveyor and valuer, who is based in our Taunton office, considers the impact of advancements in technology, sustainability, AI and extended realities on the future development of residential surveying.
It cannot be said exactly when the first formal professional survey was undertaken, but we know that surveying in some form, that is for the purpose of valuation, development, construction and property management, has a history that dates back several centuries.
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors was established in 1868 by a group of surveyors in London and has now grown to be a global organisation operating in six regions outside the UK.
Methods and technologies have changed over time, but in principle as long as people have been buying and selling land or property there has been a demand for professional expertise to help clients make important, informed decisions and manage their risk.
It is due to this that surveying appears to be a respected profession which is here to stay in the foreseeable future.
So, what does the future look like?
As already highlighted, methods and technologies have changed over the years, and they will continue to do so into the future. Here are some thoughts about how things may change and develop.
Digital technology and automation will likely take the place of many processes. As surveyors we are employed by our clients to report and analyse what we see and improvements in technology are likely to significantly aid our ability to accurately collect data and report on anything we find.
Historically, with condition surveys, we have been limited to only visibly inspecting properties, however advancements in technology will enable surveyors to inspect previously inaccessible areas to find hidden defects. This could be achieved by using thermal imaging cameras or with drone technology to more closely inspect roof areas that were previously not visible from the ground. This will allow us to provide more detailed information and advice for our clients and possibly help answer questions that historically would have required further investigation.
What are the impacts of AI and virtual realities?
The advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning will most likely become more and more useful in helping surveyors analyse defects and provide more detailed advice to clients. AI for example will likely play an increasing role in defect detection and analysis.
Virtual reality and augmented reality may become a different way of inspecting and reporting to clients. This technology could allow surveyors to provide a more immersive and interactive way to report to their clients. Imagine receiving a 3D immersive experience of an inspection so you can actually see any defects or issues that need attention before buying the house.
Will sustainability and energy efficiency play a role?
Sustainability and energy efficiency will only continue to become more important and new technologies will likely be developed and improved. How much more energy efficient can properties be? Will we need to build more eco homes or modular type houses which are greener and less harmful to the environment? What will happen to the older housing stock and will it ever be possible to improve them enough?
Modern methods of construction and advances in energy efficiency technology are also likely to require specialist skills and knowledge which may see surveyors honing their skills in more specific types of property construction or specialising in areas like sustainability.
In conclusion, along with most other professions, the future of residential property surveying will be shaped by technology-driven advancements, changing regulations, and the growing importance of environmental and sustainability factors. Surveyors who continue to adapt and use these new tools and practices are likely to thrive in the ever evolving landscape of property surveying.
Whatever happens, it is always important for property professionals to be at the forefront of these advances and have the expertise to advise and guide clients to help them make the best decision.
Here at GTH we have a wide range of expertise to help you and have surveyors based in Taunton and Yeovil who service the South West. So, if you’re looking for advice on the type of survey or professional valuation you require, speak to one of our experts today.
For more information, please contact us on 01823 334455 or 01935 423474, find your nearest survey and valuation office, or learn more about our survey and valuation services.
It cannot be said exactly when the first formal professional survey was undertaken, but we know that surveying in some form, that is for the purpose of valuation, development, construction and property management, has a history that dates back several centuries.
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors was established in 1868 by a group of surveyors in London and has now grown to be a global organisation operating in six regions outside the UK.
Methods and technologies have changed over time, but in principle as long as people have been buying and selling land or property there has been a demand for professional expertise to help clients make important, informed decisions and manage their risk.
It is due to this that surveying appears to be a respected profession which is here to stay in the foreseeable future.
So, what does the future look like?
As already highlighted, methods and technologies have changed over the years, and they will continue to do so into the future. Here are some thoughts about how things may change and develop.
Digital technology and automation will likely take the place of many processes. As surveyors we are employed by our clients to report and analyse what we see and improvements in technology are likely to significantly aid our ability to accurately collect data and report on anything we find.
Historically, with condition surveys, we have been limited to only visibly inspecting properties, however advancements in technology will enable surveyors to inspect previously inaccessible areas to find hidden defects. This could be achieved by using thermal imaging cameras or with drone technology to more closely inspect roof areas that were previously not visible from the ground. This will allow us to provide more detailed information and advice for our clients and possibly help answer questions that historically would have required further investigation.
What are the impacts of AI and virtual realities?
The advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning will most likely become more and more useful in helping surveyors analyse defects and provide more detailed advice to clients. AI for example will likely play an increasing role in defect detection and analysis.
Virtual reality and augmented reality may become a different way of inspecting and reporting to clients. This technology could allow surveyors to provide a more immersive and interactive way to report to their clients. Imagine receiving a 3D immersive experience of an inspection so you can actually see any defects or issues that need attention before buying the house.
Will sustainability and energy efficiency play a role?
Sustainability and energy efficiency will only continue to become more important and new technologies will likely be developed and improved. How much more energy efficient can properties be? Will we need to build more eco homes or modular type houses which are greener and less harmful to the environment? What will happen to the older housing stock and will it ever be possible to improve them enough?
Modern methods of construction and advances in energy efficiency technology are also likely to require specialist skills and knowledge which may see surveyors honing their skills in more specific types of property construction or specialising in areas like sustainability.
In conclusion, along with most other professions, the future of residential property surveying will be shaped by technology-driven advancements, changing regulations, and the growing importance of environmental and sustainability factors. Surveyors who continue to adapt and use these new tools and practices are likely to thrive in the ever evolving landscape of property surveying.
Whatever happens, it is always important for property professionals to be at the forefront of these advances and have the expertise to advise and guide clients to help them make the best decision.
Here at GTH we have a wide range of expertise to help you and have surveyors based in Taunton and Yeovil who service the South West. So, if you’re looking for advice on the type of survey or professional valuation you require, speak to one of our experts today.
For more information, please contact us on 01823 334455 or 01935 423474, find your nearest survey and valuation office, or learn more about our survey and valuation services.