Drone-Assisted Structural Surveys: Seeing Beyond Fire Damage for Smarter Rebuilds
- Mark Weston (Director- Chartered Structural Engineer)
- Apr 14
- 2 min read
Drone-Assisted Roof Survey & Basement Redevelopment in Salford
Fire-damaged buildings are complex puzzles. Beneath every scorched surface lies a deeper story of structural integrity, resilience - and opportunity. At JMS Engineers, we specialise in understanding that story. Our recent project in Salford, Manchester, is a perfect example of how early intervention, accurate surveying, and experienced structural engineering can guide ambitious redevelopment plans safely and successfully.
The First Step: Structural and Roof Survey Post-Fire
Following a significant fire at a property on Northumberland Street, our structural engineers were called in to complete a drone-assisted roof and structural survey. In fire-damaged buildings, safety is paramount, and drones provide a non-invasive, high-resolution overview of structural conditions - especially in areas that may be unsafe to access manually.
Using aerial imaging and close-up analysis, our team assessed the condition of the existing portal frame rear extension and surrounding structures. The drone footage gave us a precise view of surface damage, potential weaknesses, and areas requiring reinforcement - critical insights for planning the redevelopment ahead.
The Bigger Picture: Redevelopment Below Ground
As part of the proposed scheme, the project goes far beyond fire repair. In fact, it’s being reimagined from the ground down. The plan includes the construction of a new reinforced concrete basement beneath the existing rear extension - while keeping parts of the existing building in use throughout the works.
Key design highlights include:
A new RC basement floor slab and perimeter walls
Retention of the existing beam & block ground floor
Introduction of 1 to 2 internal column rows to support the basement span
Phased works to allow the existing ground floor (Shull) to remain operational, with temporary screening where necessary
This kind of redevelopment presents logistical and engineering challenges—but also an opportunity to add significant value, space, and resilience to the structure, all without the need to rebuild entirely.
Engineering Resilience Into Redevelopment
At JMS, our expertise lies not just in assessing damage, but in unlocking what’s still possible. We use advanced surveying techniques - like drone imaging - to inform every step of the process, from early concept to completion.
Our Salford project is a blueprint for modern, intelligent redevelopment: a fusion of engineering innovation, careful planning, and real-world practicality.
Whether responding to structural damage or planning complex works beneath existing buildings, JMS Engineers delivers the clarity and confidence that your project needs to move forward.
Need a Roof or Structural Survey?
Whether you're redeveloping a fire-damaged property or planning a complex basement extension, JMS Engineers brings clarity where others see complexity.
JMS Engineers are award-winning Consulting Structural & Civil Engineers with over 25 years experience in providing engineering solutions across residential, commercial and industrial projects.
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