In this practical task, students carry out a thorough visual inspection of a flat roof by analysing footage captured with a drone. Drone technology allows the entire roof area to be surveyed quickly, safely and in detail, without students needing to work at height. This significantly reduces the risk of accidents and improves the efficiency of the inspection.

During the task, students learn how to prepare and operate a drone, plan flight paths, and record and document footage correctly. By reviewing the drone images and video, they identify potential faults and areas of concern such as cracks, signs of leakage, standing water, sections with inadequate fall, or movement of the roof covering. The methods used help students develop a critical eye, record issues accurately, and propose suitable maintenance or repair actions.

A strong emphasis is placed on producing clear documentation and organising the collected data. Students practise interpreting photos and videos, classifying defects, and writing inspection reports—skills that are essential in professional settings such as construction inspections and refurbishment projects. The activity also supports teamwork, shared evaluation of findings, and the development of practical problem-solving skills.

Through the exercise, students develop key competences including communication and language skills, technical and professional knowledge, digital skills, and personal and social competences such as responsibility, autonomy and teamwork. They also complete the task with a focus on safety, quality and sustainability, learning to follow health and safety requirements, apply quality assurance practices, and take environmental considerations into account.

Drone-based visual inspection also encourages creativity, critical thinking and decision-making. Students must choose the best approach for capturing and assessing footage, and make judgements about how to prioritise and document defects. Overall, the project helps students build real-world readiness by strengthening their technical, digital and professional skills while practising modern inspection methods used in today’s construction and engineering work.