Drone Insurance for Real Estate Photographers: Costs, Coverage & Top Providers
- Are you prepared for the unexpected?
- Have you thought about the costs if your drone accidentally damaging a property?
- Could your business survive a lawsuit?
- Or, do you wonder if insurance is even worth it for a small operation?
Many drone operators wonder the same, especially when just starting. In my experience working with hundreds of new photographers, I’ve seen how drone insurance for real estate photographers can save a business from unexpected expenses and give you confidence on every shoot.
Imagine being free to take on any project, knowing you’re protected from costly accidents. Insurance lets you focus on the real work—capturing amazing real estate shots.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about drone insurance and how to find the best plan for your business.
Read also: Your Guide to Real Estate Drone Photography
Do I Even Need Drone Insurance for My Real Estate Photography Business?
Peter’s Quick Answer
No, drone insurance isn’t required by law, but it’s smart to have. Some states and cities have their own rules, and being fully insured lets you fly legally across locations in the U.S. without stressing over local requirements.
If you’re in real estate photography, drone insurance might feel like an extra cost. But it’s a smart move, especially when flying near valuable properties or in busy areas. Accidents happen, and insurance saves you from hefty out-of-pocket expenses when things go wrong.
For newer operators, liability insurance is key—it covers property damage or injury costs if your drone causes an accident. This coverage not only protects you but also reassures clients you’re serious about safety.
More experienced operators might consider hull insurance to protect the drone itself, especially if you use high-end equipment. It’s about staying covered so you can keep doing what you love, without setbacks.
What Types of Drone Insurance Are Available?
Several types of insurance can protect your real estate drone operations, each offering coverage for specific scenarios.
Liability Insurance is a common choice for real estate work, as it covers damages your drone might cause to other people’s property or potential injury claims. Liability policies often range from $1 million and up, which can be crucial if you’re working on high-value properties where damage risks are higher.
Another type is Hull Insurance, which provides coverage for the drone itself if it’s damaged or lost. This can be useful if you’re flying high-value drones, as repair or replacement costs can be steep. Typically, hull insurance costs around 8-12% of the drone’s value per year, but it offers significant reassurance if your drone encounters a malfunction or crashes during a shoot.
Additionally, Payload Insurance covers additional equipment attached to your drone, like cameras, special lenses, or neutral density filters. If you work with high-end gear, this insurance can protect your investment in case of damage.
Some operators also opt for Personal Injury Insurance, which offers coverage in privacy violations, such as accidental footage of private areas. Choosing the right mix of these policies depends on the type of work you do and your risk tolerance.
What Does Drone Insurance Cost for Real Estate Work?
Drone insurance for real estate work generally costs between $500 and $1,500 annually, depending on the type of coverage. Basic liability insurance, which covers third-party damages, typically starts around $500 per year, while adding hull coverage for the drone itself can bring costs closer to $800 or more.
For those who fly occasionally, hourly insurance rates average around $10, and monthly plans can start at $44. These flexible options allow real estate drone operators to find the coverage that best fits their usage and budget
Below, you will find the top insurance providers and their costs so you can better understand what you need.
Which Drone Insurance Providers Are Best for Real Estate Photographers?
When it comes to drone insurance for real estate work, a few providers really stand out for making the whole process easy and tailored to what photographers need.
- SkyWatch.AI is a favorite for flexibility. You can choose hourly, monthly, or annual coverage. Their app makes it super easy to buy a policy on the go, starting at $10 per hour or $44 monthly. Great for part-timers or anyone needing quick, on-demand coverage.
Learn more at skywatch.ai for drone insurance.
2. BWI Fly is more traditional, offering comprehensive annual plans starting at around $475. They’re well-known in aviation, so you get access to higher liability limits, up to $25 million if you need it. If you’re working on high-value properties and want strong, year-round protection, BWI Fly’s coverage might be what you’re after.
3. Avion Insurance – While not as low-cost as hourly options, Avion provides competitive rates with the flexibility to add only necessary coverages. They allow for detailed policy tailoring, which can keep premiums down if you only need specific protections, such as liability without full hull coverage.
4. DroneInsurance.com is budget-friendly and a good pick for consistent, basic coverage. They offer monthly plans from $7, and you can add extras if you need more protection. It’s a simple setup, but you still get liability and some add-ons for privacy and equipment if needed.
Each of these options has its perks, whether you need just the basics or more comprehensive, high-limit coverage. Give each a look to find what best fits your work style and budget.
4 Key Things to Look for in a Drone Insurance Policy
Choosing the right drone insurance policy is all about knowing what you need and what each policy offers. Here are a few things to check off your list before committing to a plan.
- Coverage Limits Matter
Coverage limits can vary a lot, so think about how much you might need. If you’re flying over high-value properties or in busy areas, consider higher liability limits—most basic policies offer $1 million, but some go up to $25 million. Hull insurance (for drone damage) is also worth looking into if your equipment is costly. Don’t skimp on limits if you’re in riskier situations; it’s better to have a cushion than be caught off guard later.
- Understand Deductibles and Exclusions
Deductibles can make or break a policy’s affordability, so choose one that balances cost with practicality. Lower deductibles mean less out-of-pocket, but higher premiums; high deductibles save on premiums but cost more when you file a claim. Also, every policy has exclusions—some don’t cover flying in restricted zones or extreme weather conditions. It’s crucial to know these limits upfront, especially if you’re working in varied conditions or areas with strict regulations.
- Evaluate Customer Service and Claims Process
You don’t want to get stuck in red tape when you need help fast. Look for providers with good customer reviews for smooth claims processes and accessible support. Some providers, like SkyWatch and Thimble, offer app-based claims, which can speed things up. It’s also worth checking if you can name clients as additional insureds at no extra cost, which many clients appreciate and some providers offer for free.
- Balancing Cost with Coverage
Finding the sweet spot between cost and coverage means being realistic about your needs. If you fly occasionally, hourly or monthly plans can keep costs down. For frequent flyers, annual policies with bundled coverage (like liability and hull) can be a better deal in the long run. Think of it like any investment—the right coverage means peace of mind without draining your budget.
With these factors in mind, picking the right policy becomes much easier. Just weigh what’s important for your business and don’t hesitate to ask providers for the details you need to make a smart choice.
What Could Go Wrong Without Drone Insurance?
Skipping insurance may seem like a way to save money, but it can lead to serious financial and reputational issues in the long run. Here’s what can happen if you operate without coverage.
Financial Risks That Add Up Fast
Imagine your drone malfunctions and crashes into a property, damaging a high-value window or landscaping. Without liability insurance, repair costs fall entirely on you, and lawsuits for property damage or personal injury can quickly add up. Plus, if your drone is damaged or lost, you’ll be on the hook for the replacement. Hull insurance, which covers your equipment, can save thousands in repair or replacement costs—something to think about, especially if your gear is high-end.
Real-Life Cases of High-Cost Consequences
There are cases where operators without insurance face hefty fines or legal action after accidents. For example, a photographer working near a crowded area accidentally damaged a parked car. Repairing even minor damage like this can cost thousands. And in some cases, clients may refuse to cover repair costs if you’re uninsured, leaving you financially stranded. Insurance steps in here, covering liability and preventing out-of-pocket disasters.
Long-Term Impact on Your Business Reputation
Operating without insurance can also hurt your business reputation, especially with clients who expect professionals to have protection. Real estate agents and property managers often prefer insured operators because it shows responsibility and foresight. Lacking coverage can make clients hesitant to hire you for high-stakes jobs, affecting your potential income and opportunities. Having insurance tells clients you’re serious, trustworthy, and prepared for anything.
In the end, insurance isn’t just a safety net; it’s an investment in your business’s future. It helps you manage risks, build trust with clients, and keep you prepared if things don’t go as planned.
Ready to Get Started? Steps to Get Drone Insurance for Your Business
Getting drone insurance doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a simple guide to help you secure the right coverage and start your business on solid ground.
Step 1: Assess Your Insurance Needs
First, think about the value of your drone and how often you’ll be flying. If you’re using a high-end drone or doing regular real estate jobs, you may want comprehensive coverage that includes both liability and hull insurance. On the other hand, occasional flyers or those using lower-cost drones might only need basic liability coverage. The key is balancing what you can afford with the level of protection your work demands.
Step 2: Get Quotes and Compare Providers
Once you know what type of coverage you need, gather quotes from different providers. Providers like SkyWatch.AI, BWI Fly, and DroneInsurance.com each offer unique options, from on-demand to annual plans. Comparing quotes can help you see where you get the most value—whether it’s flexibility, higher coverage limits, or lower deductibles. Most providers offer free online quotes, so take advantage of this to shop around.
Step 3: Evaluate Policy Terms and Finalize Coverage
When you’ve narrowed down your options, carefully review the policy terms. Look at coverage limits, deductibles, and any exclusions that might impact your specific work. Some providers even allow you to name clients as additional insureds, which many real estate clients appreciate. Once you’re satisfied, go ahead and secure the policy that best matches your needs.
Keep Policy Information Handy for Clients
Once your policy is in place, it’s a good idea to keep proof of insurance easily accessible. Many clients, especially in real estate, will want to see this before hiring you. Some providers even offer digital proof on their apps, making it easy to share when needed.
Following these steps helps you get covered efficiently, giving you peace of mind and a competitive edge when working with clients.
Conclusion
Getting insurance isn’t just another item to check off—it’s about protecting yourself and your business from the unexpected. For real estate photographers, one small accident could mean huge repair costs or even damage to your professional reputation.
With drone insurance for real estate photographers, you’re ready for anything, letting you focus on delivering great shots and earning client trust. And if you’re planning to use your drone commercially, make sure to read my guide on obtaining a commercial drone license—it’s a key step for legally operating in real estate photography.