By Ian Cohen, Inspected.com
The construction industry needs increased productivity to meet growing demands and tighter schedules. Emerging technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM), AI-powered project management, and drone surveys change the game. Among these innovations, remote inspection technology is transforming efficiency, altering how projects move from blueprint to completion.
Construction productivity lags behind other industries. McKinsey & Company reports that the sector’s annual productivity growth increased only 1% over the past two decades. Common bottlenecks include the persistent workforce shortage, permit delays, inspection wait times, and communication gaps, derailing project timelines and inflating costs. A delayed inspection can halt work for weeks or even months, leading to idle workers, equipment rental overruns, and missed deadlines. By eliminating the need for inspectors to travel to sites, virtual inspections cut vehicle emissions and reduce the construction industry’s carbon footprint.
Overcoming Resistance to Virtual Inspections
Some local governments resist adopting virtual inspections, citing concerns about oversight and quality control. Traditional inspection champions often argue that virtual inspectors lack legitimacy, claiming complex systems like electrical work demand physical presence. But in this digital age, how can we consider paper-based inspections legitimate? They lack the comprehensive video and photo documentation that virtual inspections provide. High-definition video, real-time communication, and detailed digital documentation often surpass the effectiveness of in-person inspections. Virtual platforms allow inspectors to zoom in on specific areas, capture multiple angles, and review recorded footage, potentially catching details a human eye might miss on-site.
Advocates for virtual inspections are challenging these restrictions in areas that don’t currently allow them. This fight for innovation deserves support, as it aims to modernize the industry and improve efficiency. This resistance slows the adoption of time-saving technologies, particularly in areas with stringent building codes or those experiencing rapid growth. Local building departments often face pressure to maintain traditional inspection methods, balancing innovation with established practices.
The Power of Virtual Inspection Platforms
Digital tools transform construction at every level. BIM allows for detailed 3D representations of buildings before breaking ground. Drone surveys provide accurate topographical data and monitor progress from above. AI-powered project management software streamlines scheduling, resource allocation, and communication across complex projects. Similarly to these technologies, remote inspection platforms integrate seamlessly into operations while addressing critical challenges for contractors. These virtual platforms connect contractors with inspectors through smartphone technology, allowing real-time examinations and immediate feedback. By tackling the inspection bottleneck, these technologies reduce wait times, improve communication, and enable faster decision-making and problem-solving.
Companies like Inspected.com offer online platforms where contractors can schedule and conduct same-day, third-party inspections conveniently, significantly reducing downtime. Despite the notion that virtual inspection services don’t compare to the traditional inspection process, virtual inspectors are highly qualified and trained to meet the same code requirements to thoroughly examine a property’s structural elements. This includes HVAC systems, plumbing fixtures, and more, ensuring the property complies with local codes and regulations, all while speeding up the process. Most importantly, every inspection is done by video, so all documentary proof is stored on the platform for future reference. Traditional inspections rely on paper trails, which often prove messy and difficult to maintain. In contrast, video documentation provides easy access and reliable evidence, eliminating the uncertainty and potential disputes that can arise from incomplete or lost paperwork.
Remote inspection technology uses smartphones or tablets to conduct virtual inspections. Inspectors connect with contractors through a secure video call, viewing the work site in real-time. This eliminates travel time, reduces scheduling conflicts, and allows for immediate re-inspections if needed. Virtual inspection platforms work by providing a secure, user-friendly interface for both inspectors and contractors. The contractor uses the platform to schedule inspections and stream high-quality video of the work site. Inspectors can direct the camera, take screenshots, and provide immediate feedback.
Benefits for contractors include reduced wait times, faster project completion, and the ability to take on more projects. Inspectors complete more inspections per day and reduce travel time and costs. Project owners see faster completion times and reduced costs due to fewer delays. In disaster recovery efforts, virtual inspections speed up the rebuilding process. When physical access is limited due to safety concerns or infrastructure damage, remote technology allows for swift assessment and approval of repair work.
Real-World Success
Bo’s Electrical Services, one of Southwest Florida’s fastest-growing electrical contracting companies, exemplifies the benefits of virtual inspections. The company struggled with lengthy plan review cycles, municipal delays, and scheduling conflicts with homeowners. These issues hindered their ability to track progress and monitor quality control. By implementing Inspected.com’s virtual inspection services and same-day inspections for generator installations, Bo’s now completes multiple inspections in one day. This change reduced the number of visits to each project, eliminated additional commutes, and cut drive time and miles driven by 35%. The company also saw reduced labor burden, insurance, and maintenance costs, improving productivity and their bottom line.
Implementing Remote Inspection Technology
Steps for adopting remote inspection in your workflow include researching and selecting a third-party inspector approved by local jurisdictions, training key personnel on the technology and best practices, updating project management processes, and communicating benefits and processes to clients. This transition offers a valuable opportunity to educate team members on the latest industry technology, adding another tool to their professional toolbox. Ensuring reliable internet connectivity on job sites remains a key consideration. Overcome these by demonstrating the technology’s effectiveness and investing in necessary infrastructure. Best practices for maximizing productivity gains include thorough preparation for inspections, using high-quality cameras and ensuring good lighting, developing clear communication protocols with inspectors, and regularly reviewing and optimizing your virtual inspection process.
The Future of Construction Productivity
The construction industry rapidly adopts new technologies to stay ahead of the competition, a trend that shows no signs of slowing. Similarly to how the industry has integrated BIM technology, AI, and other innovations to maintain an edge, companies must embrace third-party inspections to remain competitive in 2025 and beyond. The industry will see further technological advancements, including integration of remote inspections with BIM for real-time comparisons, AI and machine learning assisting in identifying potential issues and ensuring code compliance, and increased use of augmented reality in both construction and inspection processes.
Remote inspections fit into the broader digital transformation by streamlining a critical bottleneck in the construction process. As the industry moves towards greater digitization, virtual inspections will become standard practice. To prepare for this future, construction businesses should invest in training and technology adoption, stay informed about emerging technologies and best practices, and foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. This approach not only enhances the workforce by educating them on new technologies but also adds valuable tools to their skill set, benefiting the company through increased project capacity and efficiency.
Remote inspection technology offers clear productivity benefits: improved efficiency, reduced costs, and faster project completions. By embracing this and other technological innovations, construction companies gain a competitive advantage in an evolving industry. The path forward is clear: adopt remote inspection technology and other digital tools to stay ahead in the construction industry, actively advocate for change where remote and third-party inspections face legal barriers, and engage with local authorities to demonstrate benefits and push for updated regulations allowing these innovative practices. Companies that innovate continuously will lead the way in shaping the future of construction, meeting the demands of a rapidly changing world with increased productivity and efficiency.
About the author:
Ian Cohen, Chief Operating Officer at Inspected, brings over 20 years of senior leadership experience to his role. His background spans business transformation, growth management, and strategic planning across technology, SaaS, e-commerce, and real estate sectors. Ian excels in developing innovative growth strategies, managing P&Ls, and leading restructures. At Inspected, he drives operational excellence, scales business operations, and expands market reach. Ian’s strategic vision and practical experience in aligning initiatives with overall business strategy fuel the company’s growth in remote inspection technology.”
