Countrywide Surveying Services (CSS) has launched a new virtual inspection tool, SurveySphere, which is designed to enhance the accuracy of non-physical valuations.

The tool will enable CSS surveyors to complete secure, guided video inspections in real time, using a mobile device in the property occupier’s hands.

During the virtual appointment, the surveyor directs the call, confirms property characteristics, captures high quality visuals and identifies potential risks without needing to step inside the home.

CSS said the enhanced inspection approach provides surveyors with more visual data than a traditional desktop valuation, ensuring they are better informed to make decisions for lenders and borrowers.

Every survey instruction is pre-assessed using automated risk scoring, and property data analysis to confirm whether a virtual inspection is appropriate. Suitable cases then proceed virtually and those that require further review are escalated to protect both lenders and consumers.

Managing director at CSS, Matthew Cumber, said: "We are investing significantly in the latest technology to ensure we are providing market leading solutions to help lenders’ manage property risk.

"SurveySphere follows on from last year’s launches of QualityShield and Geoconnect and more developments are planned in 2026 to help us deliver a quicker, better and more cost-effective valuation and survey proposition for lenders and their borrowers.

"Working with several lenders on SurveySphere has given us the opportunity to refine the proposition which combines smart technology with our surveying expertise, robust data models, and intelligent triage. Every case is pre-assessed using risk scoring and property data analysis to confirm whether a desktop approach is appropriate. This technology has been designed to enhance professional judgement, not replace it."

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