Visual Condition Surveys

Trusted, consistent defect data for places where automation can’t reach.

When You Need Eyes on the Surface

Not every asset can be surveyed by machine. From footways and rural roads to high-footfall urban areas, many surface types still require human judgment-delivered in a structured, standardised format.

WDM’s Visual Condition Surveys provide the accuracy, consistency, and quality control you need to make evidence-based decisions. Whether for routine monitoring, targeted schemes, or funding submissions, our certified teams collect what automated surveys can’t-without compromising on speed or reliability.

We also offer other visual survey types including RMMS, Safety Inspections, and NRMCS-all backed by comprehensive planning, QA, and data delivery processes.

Why WDM?

We’ve delivered thousands of UKPMS-compliant visual surveys across the UK. Our methods remove the inconsistency often associated with manual inspections-combining certified surveyors, software tools, and tightly managed QA processes.

Whether you’re targeting footways, shared surfaces, or rural carriageways, WDM ensures you get accurate, auditable results to back every maintenance decision.

Professional Assessments with Proven Methods

Our in-house surveyors use accredited software and tailored approaches depending on the asset and level of detail required. Each method is aligned to UKPMS and delivers directly usable outputs for maintenance planning.

  • 1

    Coarse Visual Inspection (CVI)

    • Conducted from survey vehicles using certified surveyors
    • No need for walked inspections
    • Real-time touchscreen data entry and Brantz distance measurement
    • Digitally mapped routes for precision and consistency
    • Data delivered in HMDIF or WDM® Interchange format
  • 2

    Detailed Visual Inspection (DVI)

    • On-foot inspections for carriageways and footways
    • Conducted individually or in pairs depending on coverage
    • Data captured using WDM’s accredited, in-house software
  • 3

    Footway Network Survey (FNS)

    • Reports footway condition using four consistent levels (AN, AI, FI, SU)
    • Developed by the FCMG to support targeted investment
    • More efficient and repeatable than CVI for footway networks

Why Customers Choose WDM Visual Surveys

  • Capture what machines can’t

    Visual surveys remain essential for many roads and footways

  • Certified and consistent

    All surveyors are trained, experienced, and use accredited software

  • Fast, structured outputs

    Data is captured once and delivered in ready-to-use formats

  • Customisable methods

    Choose the right survey type for your asset or project goal

  • Total delivery partner

    Planning, training, supervision, QA, and processing all in-house

Talk to a Visual Survey Specialist

Need consistent, structured insight where machines fall short? Our expert team can help.

Related Condition Surveys

  • Bespoke Condition Surveys

    Combine structural insights with other data types for a holistic asset view

  • Deflectograph Surveys

    Understand the structural strength of your network and traffic load impacts

  • RAV Surveys

    High-speed condition data with automatic defect detection