Stonewater has used drone technology to survey 969 residential blocks across its portfolio, identifying roof defects and maintenance issues early.
The programme, delivered in partnership with aerial inspection specialist Vantage UAV, was completed in four months and covered housing blocks more than five years old.
Drones fitted with high-resolution cameras and thermal imaging technology allowed surveyors to carry out detailed roof inspections quickly, safely and accurately, removing the need for traditional access methods such as scaffolding.
This meant the surveys were completed with minimal disruption to residents, while also reducing health and safety risks.
The inspections uncovered a range of maintenance issues, including missing and broken roof tiles, guttering defects, and vegetation growth – concerns that could develop into more significant problems if left unaddressed.
This has allowed Stonewater to prioritise repairs, reduce the risk of more complex works, and protect homes, while reducing repair costs.
Survey data is now stored securely and can be revisited over time, providing a digital record to support future maintenance planning, investment decisions and longer-term asset management.
Robert Panou, director of asset strategy, homes at Stonewater, said: “Completing this programme marks an important milestone in how we manage and maintain customers’ homes.
“The surveys have given us detailed insight into the condition of nearly a thousand blocks across our portfolio, allowing us to identify issues much earlier than would often be possible through traditional inspection methods.
“By taking a proactive approach, we can plan maintenance more effectively, minimise disruption for customers and help prevent smaller issues from developing into more complex repairs.
“The data will also help inform future investment decisions, ensuring we’re targeting resources where they’re needed most while continuing to provide safe, well-maintained homes.”
Grace Hammond, head of services – built environment at Vantage UAV, added: “It is great to have completed this project with Stonewater, surveying 969 residential buildings over a relatively short period.
“The technology has enabled us to capture high-quality imagery safely and efficiently, identifying a range of maintenance issues that can now be addressed before they become more serious. Having this level of detailed information gives housing providers greater confidence when planning repairs and maintaining their homes over the long term.”
The programme will be repeated every few years as part of Stonewater’s wider asset management strategy, using technology and data to improve decision-making, target investment, and maintain safe, high-quality homes.
Read next: Karbon appoints Sinead Butters as new group chair
Are you a social housing professional? Sign up for a FREE MEMBERSHIP to upload news stories, post job vacancies, and connect with colleagues on our secure social feed.
