Drones aren’t just cool flying toys anymore. Now they are powerful tools used by professionals in construction, agriculture, real estate, and even environmental conservation. You’ve probably seen one buzzing overhead. You’ve wondered what it’s doing? Chances are it might be involved in something called Drone Surveying.
So, what exactly is drone surveying? Yes, it’s surveying done through drones. Not that easy peasy though.
What is Drone Surveying?
Drone surveying uses drones (unmanned aerial vehicles) to collect data about the ground below. The drones are usually equipped with high-resolution cameras or laser scanners (like LiDAR). They fly over a site, capturing images and measuring information, which is then used to create maps, 3D models, or detailed reports.
It’s surveying from the air, really, but quicker, often cheaper, and definitely more high-tech.
Why Would Anyone Need This?
You might think that surveying is only for people mapping things out or staking property lines. But in fact, surveying is used everywhere. From tracking construction progress to infrastructure planning, forestry management, building inspection, and even helping with search and rescue operations.
And drones? They’ve made it faster, safer, and way more effective.
Here’s why more Australian companies are using drones in their business:
1. They save time
Traditional surveys, especially of big or difficult-to-reach areas, can take weeks or even days. Drones can scan those same areas in just a few hours. The data gets captured digitally and can be processed quickly. Less waiting, more doing.
2. They’re very accurate
Drones now use GPS and high-tech sensors to gather information with exact accuracy. This allows project managers and engineers to make informed decisions, detect problems early, and reduce costly mistakes.
3. They keep people safe
Need to inspect a roof? A cliffside? A construction site with heavy machinery roaming around? Rather than placing a person atop a ladder or into dangerous territory, you deploy a drone. It ventures where people can’t (or shouldn’t), reducing risk.
4. They save money
Reduced field time, fewer people in the field, and quicker report turnaround all add up to cost savings. Drones are most valuable on large projects where small efficiencies make a huge difference.
Real-World Uses
Construction & Building Sites
Companies like Two70° use drones for monitoring progress, topographic surveys, and quality control inspections. A weekly bird’s-eye view of a whole site. A project manager’s treasure. Additionally, the data collected helps to keep the clients in the loop with detailed reports and 3D mapping.
Roof and Asset Inspections
Roof or solar panel inspection used to mean climbing ladders and walking on hot, sloping surfaces. Drones can sweep over a site in minutes, taking close-up video without anyone needing to leave the ground.
Forestry and Environmental Monitoring
From tracking the development of trees to identifying zones which have been ravaged by disease or fire, drones help environmentalists get a clearer perspective without interfering with the land. It’s a non-invasive way to survey extensive landscapes.
Search and Rescue
In a crisis, drones can be lifesavers. Drones can scan areas from the air, identify people in harm’s way, and lead rescue teams where they’re needed most in a hurry. Thermal cameras even spot in darkness.
Private Security
You can bet, drones also get used to monitor property, spot intruders, and keep areas that are safe. Drones are stealthy, inexpensive, and cover far more territory than someone on foot.
What Kind of Drones Are We Talking About?
Not the ones you can grab at your local electronics store. Companies like Two70° use enterprise-grade drones. They’re equipped with some serious tech gear—like LiDAR sensors (which use lasers to create 3D maps), thermal imaging cameras, and automated flight software.
They’re built to fly big jobs and deliver pro-level results.
So… Do Drone Surveys Replace Traditional Surveyors?
Not quite. Think of them as the perfect sidekick. Traditional surveyors still play a vital role in legal land definitions and official certifications. But drone surveys give them a powerful edge. Speed of data collection, real-time data, and visual information they’d never have otherwise.
Two70° is insistent on this point: drone data augments a surveyor’s work, it doesn’t replace it. Together, they’re unstoppable.
What Makes Two70° Different?
NSW-based Two70° aren’t so concerned with drone flying—they’re problem solvers. Whether you’re managing a construction site, inspecting infrastructure, or need an eye in the sky for emergency responses, their team brings aviation know-how, tech smarts, and real-world experience to the table.
Their method is simple:
Capture – Digitally scan your site using drones.
Analyse – Convert the data into maps, models, and insights.
Report – Deliver easy-to-understand visuals and reports that keep everyone on the same page.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
If you’re looking at drone surveying or thinking about using it for your own projects, here are a few pieces of advice:
Always check licensing – Drone pilots need to be certified by CASA (the Civil Aviation Safety Authority) in Australia. Make sure you’re working with professionals.
Plan your goals – Understand what you need from the survey. Do you need 3D models, orthomosaic maps, or just visual footage? The more specific your goal, the more effective the result.
Keep it legal and safe – Commercial drone operators follow strict safety protocols and privacy laws. It’s always good to know your rights and responsibilities, especially when operating near residential areas or public spaces.
Wrapping it up
Drone surveying isn’t a fad in technology. It’s the new benchmark for smart, efficient data collection. Whether tracking the development of a high-rise building, scanning out bushland, or monitoring critical infrastructure, drones are revolutionizing how we see and understand the world around us.
And the best part? You don’t need to be a tech whiz to use them. With the right individuals on board, like Two70°, drone surveying is simple, scalable, and actually effective.
So the next time you look up and see a drone buzzing above, know that it may be helping someone make better decisions, keep a site secure, or even save a life.
FAQ
What is drone surveying?
It’s the use of drones to collect data for mapping and analysis.
How does drone surveying save time?
Drones can survey large areas quickly, reducing project timelines.
Are drones accurate?
Yes, they use advanced sensors to capture highly accurate data.
Is drone surveying safe?
Yes, drones keep workers out of dangerous areas, improving safety.
Do drones replace surveyors?
No, they complement surveyors by enhancing data collection.
What industries use drone surveying?
Construction, real estate, agriculture, and more benefit from drone surveys.
What equipment do drones use for surveying?
Drones are equipped with cameras, LiDAR, and GPS for precise data collection.
Want to learn more or book a service? You contact Two70° now