Utility operators can use InSAR ground movement histories to prioritize inspection and maintenance where settlement may put stress on vulnerable connections, focusing field crews on the parts of the network most likely to need attention. Satellite measurements do not diagnose a leaking pipe or quantify the condition of a buried joint. Their value comes from combining expert-interpreted movement with the network's asset records, engineering vulnerability and field evidence.
Identify where movement can affect an asset
A buried network does not necessarily move the same way as the ground or structures around it. A service pipe entering a building on piles can experience differential settlement because the surrounding soil and the building respond differently. Similarly, a connection to a rigid structure or a change in ground type can matter because movement is not uniform along the route. You can read how a utility applied this kind of network screening in the Stedin case study.
The first step is to map failure mechanisms, not to color every section of the network by its nearest displacement rate. Some assets are sensitive to differential movement, while others can tolerate slow regional settlement.
Turn a broad map into a targeted inspection list
Combine suitable InSAR observations with asset type, construction details, age, maintenance history, soil conditions, reported incidents and the consequences of failure. Identify locations with persistent or unusual movement that are well supported by the measurements. Then apply engineering rules to rank where a site visit or closer check would be worthwhile.
The ranking should include uncertainty and missing coverage. An asset without coherent radar points should not automatically be scored as low risk. Poorly observed locations may need a different source of information or a different inspection approach.
Applying the Stedin experience
SkyGeo's published Stedin case describes a pilot in Portland, near Rotterdam, where around 30,000 displacement time series covered roughly 3 km² (just over a square mile). The utility had planned an extensive program involving more than 800 service connections. By incorporating ground movement evidence, Stedin prioritized the roughly 20% identified as high risk instead of working uniformly across the area. You can see more examples of InSAR supporting asset decisions on our clients page.
Results will differ from network to network, and the case also describes selective checks on lower-risk connections. The broader lesson is that measured movement can direct limited inspection resources far more efficiently.
Keep the risk model explainable
Asset managers should be able to see why a location was prioritized, which movement history supports the decision and when the conclusion was last reviewed. Export stable asset IDs and location geometry into the existing GIS or maintenance system. Track whether inspections confirm or challenge the ranking, and use that feedback to improve the model.
Where a high-consequence section lacks reliable satellite coverage, its priority should come from the overall risk assessment, not from a missing data value.
Does InSAR replace leak detection or condition testing?
No, and it is not designed to. InSAR estimates surface or structural movement, not flow, pressure, wall thickness, corrosion or leakage. Its role is to add a complementary layer of geotechnical evidence that tells inspection teams where ground movement may be affecting the network. SkyGeo can help assess where that layer adds enough value to justify a pilot and operational integration.
Frequently asked questions
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No. It estimates surface displacement and helps identify ground-related inspection priorities, while pipe condition and leaks require other methods.
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Combine the displacement trend and its confidence with asset vulnerability, past incidents, ground conditions and the consequences of failure. A person should review and confirm the shortlist.
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No. It describes one documented application, which shows how the approach creates value. Costs and results depend on each network, its decisions, its existing inspection process and the available evidence.
Explore a utility network pilot
If settlement contributes to maintenance concerns on your network, let's discuss a representative area and the asset decisions you want to improve. Contact SkyGeo.
