Remote Verification Site Inspection for Building Standards
Virtual site inspections, known as Remote Verification Site Inspections (RVSI), are available as an alternative method to in person site inspections.
The e-Building Standards Portal should be used for the submission of any prior or post supporting information relative to a RVSI.
This video demonstrates a virtual building inspection being carried out.
How to arrange a RVSI
A RVSI needs to be approved by a member of staff as there will be instances where it may not be suitable, for example, final completion inspection or where building work is complex.
If you would like more information on RVSIs and whether it would be an appropriate option to use during your building project, please contact our team to discuss your requirements.
Once agreement has been reached to schedule a RVSI, we will give you instructions how to join. We will try to work with you regarding IT requirements however, our preferred options for RVSI are:
- Near Me
- Microsoft Teams
You will receive a meeting invite for a scheduled RVSI, which will confirm the:
- Date
- Time
- Instructions for the agreed IT software to be used
- Highlighting if software needs to be downloaded before the RVSI
The RVSI will not be recorded, and the information shared during it is for the sole purpose of the inspection.
How to prepare
Please pre-arrange access to all relevant areas prior to the inspection, and make sure all requirements for site health and safety will be met relative to the RVSI.
It would also be appreciated if you could have available:
- A measuring tape
- Torch
- Any other necessary tools that might be required to assist with the inspection
What to expect during the RVSI
At the start of the RVSI the member of staff will introduce themselves and show you their Aberdeenshire Council ID badge. They will talk you through the plans at the start of the call and tell you what they want to see and where they want to start. You will be guided to point your camera in a certain direction, show closer detail, provide scale and context.
You may be asked to take some photographic evidence as you walk through the inspection, you will be helped and directed if this is needed.
During the RVSI it would be appreciated if you can avoid videoing anyone else.
We fully acknowledge that there could be a failure of technology and/or poor-quality video call during a RVSI. Please don't worry about this as we understand and can rearrange or request additional photographs. Alternatively, an on-site inspection will be needed.
The staff member will confirm if they are satisfied with the level of detail shown, indicate that the inspection is complete, and that the information will be reviewed to check that you can progress to the next stage of the Building Warrant process.
Any building works identified as requiring remedial work will be detailed in correspondence following the RVSI.