Paragon launches in-house drone service

Building and project consultancy Paragon has launched an in-house drone service, with the recruitment of a highly experienced aerial surveyor.

The new service, which is believed to be the UK property industry’s first in-house drone service, sits within Paragon’s building consultancy department and is already being used to produce condition reports on commercial and retail buildings in industrial estates, city centres and high streets.

Elliott Garrett joins the London, Manchester and Edinburgh-based business following nine years experience working for Formula One Management. In previous roles, he travelled the world planning Grands Prix infrastructure and conducting precision GPS surveys of racing circuits using Global Navigation Satellite Systems, laser scanners and drones.

Drone surveying works by combining high resolution GPS-tagged photographs, 4k video and photogrammetry software to create 3D models, site mapping, fly-over videos and roof surveys.

Paragon joint managing director, John Munday, said: “When it comes to surveying, the property industry is a dinosaur that still uses slow, archaic processes. Embracing drone technology will be to the benefit of surveyors, developers, property funds and contractors alike.

“We have collaborated closely with Elliott on a number of projects, so we know just how transformational, impressive and effective his approach is. Drone technology is a game-changer for surveying, so we are very pleased to be leading the way and collaborating with our clients to benefit their assets and create commercial advantage.”

Paragon also expects footage from drones to be used by clients to create impactful marketing videos, giving them a commercial advantage when selling or letting an asset. During construction projects, drones will also be used instead of time-lapse cameras to give accurate and real-time measurements of the mass of the site, helping avoid disputes about progress.

Commenting on his appointment, Garrett, said: “Having worked closely with Paragon, I know it is a business brimming with innovation and ambition.

“Everyone here is always looking for new and better ways to work together with clients to provide them with the best outcomes. The drone surveying service has got off to a great start, and I’m looking forward to expanding our reach and its applications with the support of my colleagues and our clients.”