When Potter Raper Building Surveyor Lea Streat visited Gravesend Cemetery to conduct condition surveys on the historic Lodge and Chapel buildings, drone technology wasn’t just useful – it was the difference between a partial record and a thorough one.
The challenge
Both the Lodge and Chapel presented access constraints typical of older, heritage-sensitive buildings. Roof coverings and associated elements, gutters, flashings, ridge details, are not readily visible from ground level, and setting up access equipment carries both practical and safety implications in a cemetery environment.
The approach
Lea approached the survey with a structured plan covering both buildings externally and internally where access permitted, with particular attention given to the building fabric: walls, roofs, windows, doors, and any associated elements showing signs of deterioration or defect.
Ground-level camera photography was used throughout, supplemented by drone imagery to safely capture detailed views of roof coverings and other elements not accessible from the ground. Together, these provided a comprehensive photographic record to support the condition assessment.
In addition to the primary building elements, Lea also noted wider maintenance concerns – water ingress indicators, material degradation, and general upkeep issues that may affect the long-term performance of the structures.
The outcome
The information and imagery collected provide a reliable overview of the current condition of both buildings, supporting the identification of defects, prioritisation of maintenance works, and informing any future repair or conservation requirements.
It’s a useful reminder that drone technology isn’t confined to new-build construction sites, they can provide context for heritage and traditionally built structures, they assist where safe access is limited. Aerial imagery can be the most practical and cost-effective way to build a thorough condition record.
The team behind the work
Lea works as part of a wider Potter Raper team that brings together building surveying, architectural consultancy, health and safety expertise, and dedicated drone operations. The team includes:
- Ian Robertson, Senior Building Surveyor and Drone Lead
- Richard Ogunniyi, Building Surveyor and Technical Done Pilot
- Lea Streat, Building Surveyor and Drone Pilot
- Sam Arthey, Senior Health, Safety and Environmental Consultant and Drone Pilot
- Harry Goddard, Architectural Consultant and Drone Pilot
- Declan Beales, Assistant Building Surveyor and Drone Pilot
Together, the team delivers drone-supported condition surveys and inspections across a broad range of building types and project contexts.
To find out more drone use in construction here and for assistance email – info@potterraper.co.uk.
