What Is TR 78 and Why It Matters
TR 78 is the technical reference published by BCA that establishes the methodology for using unmanned aircraft systems in building facade inspections across Singapore. Before TR 78, there was no standardised framework for drone-based facade assessment, creating uncertainty about whether drone data would be accepted for regulatory compliance.
TR 78 defines requirements across four areas: flight planning and execution, image capture standards, defect identification and classification, and report format. Any drone facade inspection following TR 78 methodology produces data that BCA recognises for periodic facade inspection submissions.
For building owners, MCSTs, and facility managers, TR 78 compliance means your drone inspection report can be endorsed by a Professional Engineer and submitted to BCA — the same as a traditional inspection, but completed faster and at lower cost.
TR 78 Requirements for Drone Facade Inspection
Flight Planning
Systematic flight paths covering all facade elevations with defined overlap. Pre-flight risk assessment and emergency procedures documented before every mission.
Image Resolution Standards
Minimum ground sampling distance (GSD) requirements ensuring defects are detectable. Flights are planned so every image achieves 0.15 cm per pixel or finer, as BCA requires.
Defect Classification
Standardised taxonomy covering structural cracks, delamination, sealant failure, corrosion, water ingress, and panel displacement. Each defect graded by severity.
Report Documentation
Structured report with annotated imagery, defect location maps, severity ratings, and remediation recommendations. Ready for PE endorsement and BCA submission.
Our TR 78 Inspection Process
Document Review and Planning
We review drawings, facade specifications, and previous records. Flight paths are planned for complete coverage. CAAS permits obtained.
Site Assessment
On-site evaluation of flight conditions, obstacle mapping, GPS quality, and safety zones. Special attention areas identified from building geometry.
Systematic Data Capture
CAAS-licensed pilots execute planned patterns capturing high-resolution RGB and thermal imagery across all elevations. Real-time monitoring ensures no gaps.
Analysis and Classification
Engineers review every image, classifying defects according to TR 78 taxonomy with location coordinates, severity grades, and photographic evidence.
Report Compilation
Final TR 78 compliant report includes executive summary, methodology, defect register, annotated elevations, and remediation recommendations. Delivered in 3-5 days.
TR 78 Compliant vs Non-Compliant Inspections
| Aspect | TR 78 Compliant | Non-Compliant |
|---|---|---|
| BCA acceptance | Accepted for PFI submission | May be rejected |
| Methodology | Standardised, documented | Ad-hoc, variable |
| Image quality | Defined GSD minimum | Inconsistent |
| Defect classification | Standardised taxonomy | Subjective descriptions |
| Report format | BCA submission-ready | Non-standard |
| PE endorsement | Compatible | May require rework |
Choosing TR 78 compliant inspection from the start avoids BCA rejection risk and re-inspection cost. Every inspection we conduct follows TR 78 as standard.
Who Needs TR 78 Drone Facade Inspection
- Building Owners — meet PFI obligations with a faster, safer method accepted by BCA.
- MCSTs and Managing Agents — reduce costs for condominium inspections with more detailed defect documentation.
- Professional Engineers — receive TR 78 compliant data packages ready for review and endorsement.
- Facility Managers — integrate inspection data into maintenance programmes with precise defect locations.
- Contractors — use reports to scope repair works accurately, reducing variation orders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where TR 78 Ends and the Competent Person Takes Over
TR 78 is the technical reference for using unmanned aircraft in building facade inspection. It deals with how a drone survey should be planned and run: flight planning, image capture, data handling, advance notice to occupants and privacy controls. It does not replace the Competent Person, and it does not change who is legally responsible for the PFI.
Under the PFI regulations, the CP, a PE or RA with a Certificate in Façade Inspection, owns the inspection and the report. BCA's 2025 circular confirms the CP must notify BCA before the drone work, be physically present while the drone flies, and review the images personally. The images themselves must meet 0.15 cm per pixel or finer and be supplied without annotation.
In practice, TR 78 governs the capture and the CP governs the judgement. The drone survey covers the whole facade for the Stage 1 visual inspection and highlights where Stage 2 close-up checks should go, but hands-on tasks such as tapping tiles and render still need physical access. Through our partner Competent Persons we can run the full process, from CP appointment to report submission.
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