A borescope survey uses a small camera inserted through a drilled hole to inspect the inside of your cavity wall. It's the definitive way to assess your insulation's condition.
A borescope (also called a cavity camera or endoscope) is a flexible or rigid camera attached to a thin probe. It is inserted through a small hole drilled in the wall — typically in a mortar joint — to provide a direct visual inspection of the cavity interior.
This allows our surveyor to see exactly what is in the cavity, in what condition, and how well it covers the wall. It's far more reliable than estimates based on property age alone.
The same technique is used before new cavity wall insulation installations to confirm the cavity is clear, clean and suitable for filling.
Our borescope survey reports are detailed enough to support insurance claims, CIGA complaints against original installers, and pre-purchase property surveys. We document findings with photographs and a written assessment.
Confirms whether insulation is present and whether it covers the full height and width of the cavity. Voids and gaps become immediately visible on camera.
Shows whether insulation is dry, damp, saturated, degraded, slumped or contaminated. Wet or compressed insulation is clearly identifiable and distinguishable from intact material.
Identifies whether mineral wool, EPS bead, blown fibre or other materials are present. This is important for planning extraction — different materials require different approaches.
Reveals the condition of the cavity wall ties, mortar debris and overall structure. This informs recommendations beyond just insulation — for example, if ties are corroded or the cavity has structural concerns.
The surveyor drills small access holes at intervals in the wall — typically in mortar joints to minimise visible marks. Usually three to five holes per elevation, depending on property size.
The camera probe is inserted through each hole and manoeuvred to inspect as much of the cavity as possible. Findings are recorded visually and photographed.
A detailed report documents what was found in the cavity, condition assessment, photographs and recommendations for next steps.
All access holes are repointed or filled. The survey leaves the property in essentially the same external condition as before.
Zest carry out borescope surveys across North East England, Cumbria, North Yorkshire and the Scottish Borders. Contact us to arrange a visit.
