Remote/virtual building inspections way of the future

Fifteen per cent of Council’s building inspections are currently completed virtually using an app, saving time and money, and that figure is set to grow.

Building Control Group Manager Dhyanom Gala told last week’s Environment and Planning Committee that virtual/remote inspections were the future of the building industry.

“We were one of the very early adopters of the BRANZ Artisan app and we now have 35 building firms using it,” he said. “Since we started using it in 2021, 1,085 inspections have been completed, saving more than 32,000 kms and 1,000 man-hours.”

The Government recently announced plans to make remote inspections the default approach for BCAs (Building Consent Authorities), an initiative expected to streamline the building consent system, reduce costs and improve efficiency.

While remote/virtual inspections were the future of the building industry, there were several challenges Mr Gala said.

The benefits were increased efficiency, cost savings, flexibility, high-quality digital records, reduced health and safety risks as inspectors were not on site and continuity during emergency events (i.e. road closures).

Challenges included lack of liability sharing framework, resistance to change, staff training, technological requirements and maintaining consistency and quality control.

Mr Gala said Council’s Building Control Group currently undertakes up to 5,000 inspections yearly and was continually exploring ways to promote efficiencies.

The Artisan app is recognizing the quality assurance processes of building teams and fostering stronger connections between Council and the building community.

The Building Control Group is gradually increasing its uptake of inspections carried out using the Artisan app.

“We will continue to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of remote/virtual inspections and make adjustments as needed to adapt to new challenges and regulatory challenges,” Mr Gala said.