However, we’re already beginning to see some big changes in the way that property inspections are being completed, which positively impact efficiency, productivity, and accuracy.
1. Heavy reliance on mobile devices
Already, we’re seeing mobile devices used in the field to upload images, and we can expect this trend to continue to evolve to the point where all workflows are completed from a tablet. By using a tablet and relying on mobile technology to generate an order receipt, use real-time routing, and upload images all from the field, properly inspections can be created faster and more accurately.
2. An abundance of data
In our industry, there’s been a lot of buzz about big data and when we can expect this information to have a big impact on inspections. To some extent, the data that we have available to us today regarding different property types plays a role in the way that property inspections are conducted. However, we can expect that there will be considerably more data available over the next 10 years regarding properties in our country and from around the world that will help property inspectors and field inspectors to more accurately assess risk and estimate structure costs.
3. The use of geospatial and remote sensing technologies
Geospatial data and the aerial images that can be gained from it will most definitely be a game changer for property inspections and field inspections alike (contributing to the abundance of data that we can expect to have as mentioned above). Also, with remote sensing technologies, inspectors will be able to get precise dimensions of a property.
4. The use of real-time video conferencing
With the use of mobile technology, it can be incredibly powerful for underwriters to take a virtual ride-along of a property with inspectors via a real-time video conference. This can help to speed up the property inspection process and allow insurance companies to more accurately assess a property’s risk.
5. The use of drone technology
While the use of drone technology in property inspections is still controversial, we can expect that the idea of drone use will most certainly be given more consideration over the next 10 years as it as the increased efficiency and productivity that it could provide would be invaluable.
As a field inspector, do you feel as though these changes over the next decade will positively impact the way that you do your job? What are some other key ways that you see our industry changing in the coming years?
Please contact us for more insight into the way that we see property inspections evolving over the next 10 years.
