The building industry keeps getting bigger, and the need for drone services is on the rise.
Starting a drone business to check roofs is a smart move.
This kind of work helps out clients like insurance groups, real estate firms, and building companies. Using drones to look at roofs means the job is done quickly and right, saving time and cutting down on danger for workers.
Read on to find out how to start and build up your very own drone roof inspection business.
- Advanced Imaging Technology: Equipped with a 3-axis motorized gimbal and 1-inch 20MP CMOS sensor with a mechanical shutter for high-quality, distortion-free images.
- Enhanced Viewing and Control: Features a 5.5-inch 1080p LCD screen on the remote controller for clear visibility in direct sunlight.
- Superior Flight Performance: Boasts a maximum speed of 72 kph, 8km transmission range with 1080p livestreaming, and OcuSync 2.0 for efficient frequency switching.
Why Start A Drone Roof Inspection Business?
Drones are undoubtedly revolutionizing many industries around the world for the better. Drone pilots can help businesses and people in need by offering their services to support traditional tasks that were previously time-intensive, expensive, and potentially dangerous. This is certainly the case in the roof inspection industry.
Video Credit: InterNACHI
A skilled drone pilot can now help construction companies, homeowners, and property managers build, inspect, and maintain their roofs through a quick assessment that can sometimes take less than an hour.
As a drone pilot, it’s your job to help your clients understand that their roof inspection needs can now be solved by the services you provide with your drone. The traditional method of inspecting a roof by literally climbing a ladder or scaffolding up a building is no longer necessary.
According to Google Trends, the search term, “roof inspection” is continuously on the rise.
So if you’re a drone pilot who can properly position yourself in front of customers in need, you’ll have a steady stream of customers, and therefore, income.
Starting a drone roof inspection business is a bountiful decision based on market data and the return on investment (ROI) that you can achieve when considering the cost of your drone, training, and other overhead costs, compared to the income you’ll receive from clients.
We’ll help you understand this further by providing you with 8 key steps to embrace when starting your drone roof inspection business.
1. Understanding the Market Demand
With construction on the rise, there’s a bigger need to check roofs. In 2018, the building trade in the U.S. made over $1 trillion, showing it’s a strong market.
This growing need means lots of chances but also lots of rivals. To stand out, you must know what makes your business different.
Start by looking at your local area to see who you’re up against and what they offer. This will help you set your business apart and pick the best spot to succeed.
By getting to know your market, you can better serve local needs and beat your rivals.
2. Legal Requirements
First, you need to ace the FAA Part 107 test. This exam tests your knowledge of air rules, handling sudden problems, and being safe in different weather.
Next, get insurance to keep your business safe from any troubles. This way, if things go wrong, you’re covered. If you’re thinking of hiring people, you need to get them insured too.
Make your business an LLC to add more shield and make it seem more solid to clients. This move also keeps your personal and company money apart, which is key for tax and legal stuff.
Lastly, chat with legal experts who know your local laws well. They can help you make sure you meet all the rules needed. This keeps your business on the right side of the law.
3. Acquiring the Necessary Skills and Certifications
After you get your FAA Part 107 exam – there’s more to do. Learn to fly over roofs in special classes to stand out. These lessons offer unique tips to make your inspections better.
The building world always changes with new tech, so it’s important to keep up. Short courses, industry meets, or online learning can help.
Staying up to date means using the latest methods and tools, making your work faster and more accurate.
4. Investing in Quality Equipment
Using better gear leads to faster and more correct checks. Go for drones made for checking roofs, like the DJI Phantom 4 RTK or the Autel EVO Lite+. These models give clear and sharp pics. Be sure to get a top camera and heat picture software to make heat maps.
Also, keep extra batteries, chargers, and extra parts on hand to keep work going. Look at different choices to find what’s best for you.
Starting with the best tools can save time and money, making sure your work flows well with no issues.
5. Business Plan and Marketing
One of the most important things is making a good plan for your drone roof inspection business. This plan helps you determine your goals, who your clients will be, how much cash you need, and how to market your services.
Read on to learn how to make a top-notch plan for success.
Business Plan Essentials
- Detail what services you provide. If it’s not just roof inspections – think about adding thermal imaging or 3D mapping to stand out.
- Outline your startup costs and ongoing expenses like – drone equipment, insurance, marketing, and training.
- Set short-term and long-term goals. This could be the number of clients or revenue targets within 6 months, a year, and beyond.
- Decide how you will acquire new clients. Use a mix of online and offline strategies.
Marketing Strategies
- Make your website simple to use and show off your projects. Have a clear way for folks to reach out or ask for a price.
- Use socials like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to connect with people. Post about what you do, good outcomes, and tips for checking roofs.
- Don’t skip the old-school ways. Hand out flyers put ads in the local paper, and show up at community events to meet more people.
Mixing online and offline marketing efforts will let you meet more people and make your business bigger.
6. Building a Strong Network
Building a strong network can help you find new customers, partners, and opportunities to grow.
First, talk to real estate agents, builders, and insurance companies – they can lead you to good jobs and team-up opportunities. Then, go to field events and join groups to meet the right people.
Make sure your customers are happy with your work, as they will spread the word about you. This will bring in more customers and build a reliable name for your work.
7. Handling Finances Wisely
Always keep an eye on what you earn and spend. This lets you see where your money goes. It’s key to save some of your money for taxes.
Put aside a bit more cash each month for surprise costs or fixes. Simple bookkeeping tools can keep you on track and sort out your finances. Think about talking to a financial advisor. They can guide you in setting goals and planning ahead.
With smart money moves, your business can grow well and gain a trusted name.
8. Use Advanced Technology for Business Operations
Using tech in your work can really make things run smoother and make customers happier. Start with booking apps to handle your meetings easily. This way, you’ll never skip a spot and keep it all in order.
Drones help you see issues hard to spot from the ground. Using drones not only makes check-ups better but also faster, which makes your clients pleased with quick service.
Keeping files on the cloud is another good move. It lets you get and share reports quick and keeps them safe. You won’t have to stress about losing key papers, and clients can get their files with no wait.
By using these tech tools, you can make your business work better and draw in more customers.
FAQs
Is a drone roof inspection business profitable?
Yes, a drone roof inspection business can be profitable. Lots of work areas now need drone service – real estate, farming, and building inspections. With the right skills and gear, you can grab this need and make nice money.
How much does a roof inspection cost in US?
Checking a normal house roof usually costs about $150 to $350. For big or tricky roofs, the price goes up to $300 to $600. If you need someone with more skills, it might cost you $400 to $800 or even more.
How much does it cost to start a drone business?
Starting a drone business may cost from $9,000 to $19,000. This covers getting basic drones, getting permits and insurance, and money for marketing and learning how to run it.
What drones are used for inspections?
For most external inspection needs, the DJI Matrice 300 is the top choice. This drone is known for its powerful performance and reliability. It’s equipped with advanced sensors and a long battery life, making inspections easier and more effective.
The Takeaway
Starting a drone roof check business is a smart and money-making move. It provides key services to many fields, ensuring there’s always a need.
First, you need a clear plan. List what you’ll do, from just looking at roofs to using high-tech scans from the air. Mix using the web, like social media and a simple website, with real-life actions like giving out flyers and going to local events. Making good ties with folks who sell houses and build them can get you more work and tips.
Keep track of what you earn and spend, save for taxes, and plan for surprise costs. Use the newest tech, like drones that learn on their own, to work better and more precisely.
By joining the SolDrones group, you can access helpful tools and opportunities to grow your business. Keep up with new gear and trends to keep your services the best.
