Emerging technologies are pivotal in this transformation and among the most promising are drones. Offering an aerial perspective and the ability to automate tasks, drones are rapidly becoming indispensable tools for property managers, particularly in the critical areas of inspections and cleaning, say Charu Thapar, Executive Director, PAM APAC-JLL; Sumeet Vijh, Head Technology, PAM India, JLL and Rahul Arora, Senior Manager-Business Analytics, PAM India, JLL
Eyes in the sky
The ability of drones to take to the skies offers a game-changing perspective for property inspections, providing detail and access that traditional methods simply cannot match. Equipped with high-resolution cameras and advanced imaging technology, drones can capture detailed images and videos of building exteriors. This aerial vantage point allows for comprehensive evaluations of hard-to-reach areas such as rooftops, facades and gutters – areas often overlooked or difficult to inspect manually.
Property managers can efficiently identify a range of issues, from specific cleaning requirements of a building’s facade to critical structural damage, corrosion or potential leaks, all from the safety of the ground. This level of detail enables proactive maintenance, preventing minor issues from escalating into costly repairs.
Taking flight against grime
Beyond inspections, drones have the potential to revolutionize property cleaning, particularly in challenging and inaccessible areas. Advanced drone technology is evolving to incorporate cleaning functionalities.
Drones equipped with specialized cleaning modules or integrated with robotic facade cleaning systems can autonomously wash windows, clean rooftops of debris and tackle grime in otherwise inaccessible spaces. This is particularly beneficial for maintaining the aesthetic appeal and structural integrity of skyscrapers, industrial facilities and other large-scale properties where manual cleaning is often complex, expensive and potentially dangerous.
Enhanced safety
One of the most significant advantages of drone inspections is the elimination of risks associated with manual inspections in hazardous environments. Sites like Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) or high-altitude facade structures, which traditionally require specialized equipment and put personnel at risk can be safely and efficiently inspected by drones. This not only protects workers but also reduces liability for property management companies.
