Published 15th August 2018
Drones mounted with high-definition cameras have transformed the way in which the Vale of Glamorgan Council in Wales assesses its housing stock. “It solves a huge access issue,” said Andrew Treweek, operational manager of building services at the council. “An inspection would previously have involved the cost of equipment for scaffolding and significant safety issues. High-definition video brings you upfront and personal insight from your desk.” The Welsh authority has harnessed th...
Published 27th July 2018
It may have surprised residents of one block of flats on Southampton City Council’s Canberra Towers estate when drones and abseilers appeared on, and around, its walls. This was, though, not some sort of art installation but an inspection to find out whether the council’s chosen scheme to improve insulation and energy efficiency was workable and if any previously unknown problems lay within the walls. The tower has 144 flats over 24 storeys and was built in the late 1960s on a concrete...
Published 23rd April 2018
The largest social housing landlord in the UK has commissioned the British Board of Agrément Consultancy Investigation Training (BBA CIT) to conduct the most comprehensive study of its kind into cavity wall insulation. The Northern Ireland Housing Executive has tasked BBA CIT with surveying 1,000 social homes and 300 private homes. The research project is already underway and is expected to be completed next summer with results published later in the year. Paul Isherwood, the Housing Exec...
Published 8th December 2017