How Drones Are Changing the Game for UK Facilities Managers

In today’s fast-paced environment, facilities managers are expected to do more with less—manage more properties, handle more responsibilities, and maintain high standards across complex portfolios. The role is demanding, time-sensitive, and constantly evolving.

One technology that’s making a real difference for UK facilities managers is drone surveying.

At SkyScan Solutions, we’ve seen first-hand how drone inspections are giving FM teams a clearer view of their sites, speeding up maintenance, and improving reporting. Here’s how drones are helping facilities managers take back control.

The Facilities Manager’s Dilemma

You’re tasked with overseeing multiple buildings—each with its own unique needs, structures, and issues. Roofs need checking, drainage needs inspecting, facades need monitoring… but traditional inspection methods can be slow, costly, and disrupt daily operations.

That’s where drone inspections step in—providing a safe, efficient way to see more and do more.

How Drone Surveys Help Facilities Managers

1. Faster Inspections = Faster Repairs

Drones can be deployed in a matter of hours. Whether you’re dealing with a leak, a loose panel, or a potential structural issue, we can survey the area without scaffolding or cherry pickers—and deliver findings the same day. That means less downtime and quicker decision-making.

2. Reduced Costs and Budget Waste

Traditional surveys often involve external contractors, equipment hire, and safety paperwork—all of which eat into your budget. Drones significantly cut those costs by reducing access requirements and speeding up the process.

3. Better Reporting to Stakeholders

Need to show your boss, landlord, or insurance provider what’s happening on the roof? Our drone reports are high-resolution, clear, and fully documented—perfect for audits, funding requests, or justifying urgent repair work.

4. Improved Health & Safety

No ladders. No scaffolding. No working at height. That’s an instant improvement to your site safety record and risk profile.

5. Ideal for Multi-Site Portfolios

If you manage multiple buildings—like schools, offices, care homes or retail units—we can help you survey them all quickly. Drone inspections allow you to build an accurate digital record across your entire portfolio.

Real Example: Multi-Site Care Group in the West Midlands

We worked with a regional care group managing 12 residential care facilities. Previously, each roof inspection required separate contractors, costing time and money.

With drones, we surveyed all 12 sites in 3 days and delivered a full visual report for each, highlighting minor repairs, blocked gutters, and areas needing urgent attention. The FM team now plans maintenance more proactively—and their overheads have dropped by over 30%.

Why Facilities Managers Choose SkyScan Solutions

• CAA-licensed and fully insured

• Fast UK-wide coverage

• Friendly, FM-aware reporting style

• Custom reporting to suit asset registers

• Thermal and elevation options available

• GDPR and safety compliant

We work closely with FM teams to deliver what they actually need—no fluff, no jargon.

Conclusion

As a facilities manager, your time is valuable. You need insights fast, without unnecessary risk, disruption, or cost. Drone inspections tick every box—delivering powerful data that helps you protect your properties and stay ahead of problems.

At SkyScan Solutions, we’re here to make your job easier.

Want to see how drones can support your facilities team?

Book a free consultation with SkyScan Solutions and take the stress out of inspections.

👉 Speak to Our Team