Countrywide Surveying Services (CSS) has launched a new virtual inspection tool.

SurveySphere enables CSS surveyors to complete 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 visuals and identifies potential risks.

The new tool provides surveyors with more visual data than a traditional desktop valuation.

Every survey instruction is pre assessed using automated risk scoring and property data analysis to confirm whether a virtual inspection is appropriate.

Suitable cases proceed virtually and those that require further review are escalated to protect both lenders and consumers.

CSS managing director Matthew Cumber says: “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.”