Mitie unleashes drones for high-rise building surveys

Outsourcing and facilities management specialist Mitie is to start using remote-controlled drones to inspect high-rise buildings.

Mitie said its drones offer 'cost and time efficiencies'. Picture: Contributed

The group, one of Scotland’s biggest private sector employers, said the new service would allow it to carry out surveys and “thermal mapping” at previously inaccessible sites.

The drones, capable of flying to 400 feet and equipped with high-resolution 4K video cameras, will be flown by operators licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority.

Mitie first tested the drone technology at its pest control business, inspecting roofs for gulls’ nests.

Pest control managing director Peter Trotman said: “Drone technology is great innovation which increases our safety when working at height and it also offers both cost and time efficiencies compared to traditional surveying methods.

“The new technology enables us to provide our clients with a more comprehensive and flexible service with the ability to recommend solutions in real-time.”.