Drones are creating a lot of buzz in the Real Estate industry. They are becoming more affordable and can capture unique angles to showcase properties to prospective buyers. However due to the infancy of the drone industry many real estate professionals are exposed to conflicting information. At Upmarket Photo we get a lot of questions like “is it ok for my nephew with a drone to take photos of my listing?” … “am I covered in a accident?” … “what’s the deal with the new FAA certification I heard about?”
This article answers the most common questions we receive from real estate professionals about using drones. For complete and current information visit: www.faa.gov/uas
Is it legal to use a drone for Real Estate?
Yes! However, using a drone to capture photos or video of a real estate listing is considered commercial use and drone operators are required to follow the FAA’s Small Unmanned Aircraft Rule known as Part 107. Read the Part 107 summary here.
My nephew has a drone, can he take photos of my listing?
While your nephew, neighbor or coworker may be eager to fly their new toy they are considered a recreational user and are not certified for commercial use (including real estate photos). By using an non-certified pilot you are liable to the FAA for fines of $11,000 per incident!
Do you need a pilot’s license?
No. As of August 29, 2016 commercial drone operators no longer need a pilot’s license. They are required to pass an aeronautical knowledge test and obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate with a sUAS rating from the FAA.
Operating requirements
Commercial drone pilots operating under Part 107 are required to:
- Hold a Remote Pilot Certificate
- Register their drone with the FAA
- Conduct a pre-flight inspection
- Maintain visual line-of-sight with the drone
- Avoid flying over people
- Avoid flying in restricted airspace
- Fly below 400 ft
- Fly during daylight hours
- Yield right of way to other aircraft
What about Insurance?
Injuries and property damage caused by drones are not covered by most brokerage’s E&O policies or small business liability policies. In most cases drone operators will need a drone specific insurance policy although it is not required by the FAA.
Are any areas restricted for drone flights?
Yes. Due to the vicinity of Oxnard, Camarillo and Santa Paula airports most of west Ventura County is a restricted no-drone zone. However most of Ventura is clear for flight. Please check with your drone pilot to confirm.
Hire a Professional?
When hiring a professional drone operator ask to see proof of their insurance and FAA certification to ensure they comply with the FAA’s Part 107. At Upmarket Photo our drone pilots are fully compliant with Part 107. We also provide $1,000,000 bodily injury and property damage coverage and $10,000 violation of privacy coverage on every flight.
Please note: This article is considered informational only and does not constitute legal advice. The author assumes no liability from its use.
For complete and current information visit: www.faa.gov/uas
Drones are creating a lot of buzz in the Real Estate industry. They are becoming more affordable and can capture unique angles to showcase properties to prospective buyers. However due to the infancy of the drone industry many real estate professionals are exposed to conflicting information. At Upmarket Photo we get a lot of questions like “is it ok for my nephew with a drone to take photos of my listing?” … “am I covered in a accident?” … “what’s the deal with the new FAA certification I heard about?”
This article answers the most common questions we receive from real estate professionals about using drones. For complete and current information visit: www.faa.gov/uas
Is it legal to use a drone for Real Estate?
Yes! However, using a drone to capture photos or video of a real estate listing is considered commercial use and drone operators are required to follow the FAA’s Small Unmanned Aircraft Rule known as Part 107. Read the Part 107 summary here.
Do you need a pilot’s license?
No. As of August 29, 2016 commercial drone operators no longer need a pilot’s license. They are required to pass an aeronautical knowledge test and obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate with a sUAS rating from the FAA.
Operating requirements
Commercial drone pilots operating under Part 107 are required to:
- Hold a Remote Pilot Certificate
- Register their drone with the FAA
- Conduct a pre-flight inspection
- Maintain visual line-of-sight with the drone
- Avoid flying over people
- Avoid flying in restricted airspace
- Fly below 400 ft
- Fly during daylight hours
- Yield right of way to other aircraft
What about Insurance?
Injuries and property damage caused by drones are not covered by most brokerage’s E&O policies or small business liability policies. In most cases drone operators will need a drone specific insurance policy although it is not required by the FAA.
Hire a Professional?
When hiring a professional drone operator ask to see proof of their insurance and FAA certification to ensure they comply with the FAA’s Part 107. At Upmarket Photo our drone pilots are fully compliant with Part 107. We also provide $1,000,000 bodily injury and property damage coverage and $10,000 violation of privacy coverage on every flight.
Please note: This article is considered informational only and does not constitute legal advice. The author assumes no liability from its use.
For complete and current information visit: www.faa.gov/uas