As extreme weather events multiply and the number of danger orders continues to rise in France, a study conducted by Feelbat specialist in infrastructure monitoring via connected sensors (Plug&play and easy to use), reveals a growing concern among citizens regarding the state of buildings, bridges, and other everyday structures. The ageing property stock, lack of maintenance, and climate risks are all factors that exacerbate the fragility of infrastructures and reinforce the need for suitable technological solutions.
Concerned French citizens regarding the state of infrastructure
According to the study conducted by Feelbat, 78% of the French say they are concerned about the condition of the buildings, roads, and bridges they use on a daily basis.
A finding that can be explained by a general perception of a lack of maintenance: 63% believe that these infrastructures are insufficiently monitored and maintained, while 48% report having already observed visible signs of degradation, such as cracks, subsidence, or advanced deterioration.
Among the structures deemed most concerning in terms of safety:
➡️ Old buildings (59%), particularly in city centres and historic areas.
➡️ Bridges and viaducts (52%), regularly subject to structural vulnerabilities.
➡️ The roads and tunnels (44%), often affected by subsidence and infiltrations.
The impact of climate: a recognised aggravating factor
The recent climate events – floods, heatwaves, storms – are further accelerating the deterioration of infrastructure. 72% of respondents believe that these phenomena significantly increase the risks to buildings and bridges, and 58% claim to have already observed damage related to these events near their homes.
In light of this reality, the French are unanimous: 89% believe it is necessary to strengthen the monitoring of infrastructure.
Technology and prevention: towards intelligent monitoring of infrastructures
The solution lies in innovation. Today, tools like Feelbat allow for continuous monitoring of the evolution of cracks and structural movements through connected sensors. This technology is deemed essential by more than one in two respondents (56%), who believe that these devices should be generalised to prevent risks and avoid tragedies such as the collapse of buildings or the late closure of bridges in poor condition.
“At Feelbat, we have seen a significant increase in sensor orders in recent months, particularly from engineering firms mobilised after collapses or alerts regarding buildings. This proves that the need for reliable and user-friendly solutions is more urgent than ever. Our sensors, designed to be easily installed by any technician, provide real-time data on the evolution of structures and help anticipate risks.”
Today, technology gives communities and asset managers the means to act before it is too late.
Jean-Christophe Habot, co-founder of Feelbat
In the face of security challenges and the growing expectations of citizens, local authorities and infrastructure managers now have the means to adopt a preventive and technological approach. With nearly 25,000 homes affected by danger orders each year, the challenge is immense.
About Feelbat
Founded in July 2020, Feelbat is a French start-up specialising in real-time monitoring of infrastructures through connected sensors. Its objective: to prevent structural risks and provide proactive surveillance of buildings, bridges, and other structures. With a plug & play technology, its sensors enable building experts, local authorities, and construction companies to remotely monitor the evolution of cracks, inclinations, and humidity, thus ensuring better safety and optimised management of built heritage. With a team of 19 employees, Feelbat is experiencing rapid growth and has already sold over 3,000 sensors across France. In May 2024, the start-up raised €1.5 million from the Apicap fund and Bpifrance to accelerate its development, strengthen its teams, and prepare for European expansion. Winner of several innovation awards, including the IOT Business Hub Connect Award and the Overseas Innovation Award, Feelbat aims to launch three new sensors each year and develop increasingly efficient solutions to secure infrastructures.🔗 More information: www.feelbat.fr