Live in Surrey and need a building inspection? There’s an app for that.
Earlier this week, in an effort to reduce red tape and increase efficiencies, the City of Surrey launched a new smartphone and mobile application for building inspections.
The new technology includes a web application that will be available for BlackBerry, iPhone and iPad.
“The City of Surrey is the first municipality in Canada to introduce this type of inspection technology,” said Mayor Dianne Watts.
“The application allows us to improve communication and streamline our procedures. The end result is that we improve customer service and prevent tradespeople from wasting time by having to wait around on work sites.”
Monday’s launch follows a pilot period with local builders who volunteered to participate in the test environment.
The application allows clients to schedule inspections using their smartphones instead of having to call city hall.
The program includes text messaging features, which will let clients know when an inspector will arrive and provide updates, should an appointment need to be advanced or postponed.
Once the inspection is completed, clients receive updates and results via email.
Currently, the application is available for building inspections. The city anticipates rolling out the program for plumbing, electrical, tree and landscape inspections in 2012.
Jennifer Harrison
@JHarrisonBIV