Examining the social, legal, and ethical implications of LiDAR property assessment
While the technological aspects of this research are compelling, the ethical dimensions of implementing LiDAR-based property assessment deserve careful consideration. This project acknowledges various stakeholders' interests and rights while addressing Ireland's housing crisis through technological intervention.
This research project adheres to strict ethical guidelines ensuring privacy protection, community engagement, professional respect, and equitable access to technology.
3D scanning of properties raises important privacy concerns, particularly when properties may contain personal belongings or when neighbouring properties are inadvertently captured.
Technology that accelerates property development can inadvertently contribute to gentrification and displacement of vulnerable populations.
The technology could potentially disrupt traditional surveying and assessment professions, affecting livelihoods.
Technology as an enhancement to professional services
Upskilling programs for existing professionals
Partnership with professional bodies
Creating jobs in 3D modelling and digital assessment
Advanced technological solutions may exacerbate existing inequalities if not implemented with accessibility in mind.
This research project affects and involves multiple stakeholders with varying interests and concerns:
Interests: Accurate valuation, cost reduction, privacy protection
Concerns: Data security, unauthorized access to property details
Response: Clear consent procedures, data minimisation, secure access controls
Interests: Inventory management, renovation planning, cost efficiency
Concerns: Data reliability, implementation costs, technical expertise
Response: Validation studies, phased deployment, training programs
Interests: Affordable housing, neighbourhood improvement, cultural preservation
Concerns: Gentrification, loss of heritage, community displacement
Response: Community consultation, heritage documentation, affordable housing integration
Interests: Service enhancement, professional development, new markets
Concerns: Job displacement, devaluation of expertise, liability issues
Response: Collaborative development, skill enhancement programs, professional integration
This project was conducted with upmost regard for privacy and adheres to the following ethical principles:
All property owners provided explicit written consent for scanning and data usage.
Participants could withdraw their data at any point during the research process.
Only necessary information was collected and stored in accordance with privacy principles.