Drone roof inspections are one of the smartest niches for a new commercial pilot: steady demand from roofers, realtors, and insurers, far less competition than real-estate media, and you replace a dangerous ladder climb with a 15-minute flight.
Who buys roof inspections
- Roofing companies — fast estimates without sending a crew up a ladder.
- Realtors & home inspectors — pre-sale roof condition reports.
- Insurance — storm-damage documentation and claims.
- Property managers — routine maintenance checks across portfolios.
What you need
Your Part 107 certificate, a drone with a solid camera (4K is plenty; thermal is a bonus for leak detection), and a simple deliverable: a folder of clear photos + a short summary report. That's it to start.
What to charge
Typical US pricing is $150–$400 per roof, depending on size and whether you include a written report or thermal imaging. Bundle deals with roofers (e.g., a per-roof rate for volume) turn one client into steady recurring work.
How to land your first clients
- Make a one-page offer: "Same-day drone roof inspection + photo report, $X."
- Walk into (or DM) 10 local roofing companies with a sample report.
- One busy roofer can become weekly recurring work — that's the goal.
Do it like a pro from day one
A clean contract, a professional report template, and confident pricing are what separate a $300 inspection from a "can you do it for $75?" The Drone Business Launch Kit includes the contracts, pricing calculator, and checklists to look pro on your first job. Just getting started? Grab the free Part 107 Starter Pack first.
This is general business guidance, not legal advice.
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