The application of infrared thermography has provided a reliable and accurate assessment method for the inspection of buildings and structures. The principle of the infrared thermography technique is the detection of energy by an infrared scanner and mapping the temperature contours over the surface of a target object to provide an appropriate measure of the damaged building or structure. This paper reviews the background of infrared thermography and the factors influencing the IR imaging. The applicability of infrared thermography in two particular situations is considered – the delamination of external wall finishes and a roofing system condition survey.