Where’s the job?

Scope of Works

• Pre-flight checks & paperwork – confirm CAA-compliant risk assessment, check airspace, issue NOTAM if required, and brief any spotter.

• Site set-up – cordon a small take-off/landing area, run through equipment checks, and calibrate drone sensors.

• Aerial capture – fly multiple orbits/passes to photograph and video all roof slopes, chimneys, flashings, parapets and gutters at high resolution (usually 20–48 MP).

• Detail shots – hover-close for specific defects; shoot obliques and nadir imagery for accurate scale.

• Data download & backup on site; pack down safely.

• Post-processing back at base – review images, label defects, compile PDF/online gallery and (if purchased) written condition report or 3-D model.

• Deliverables sent electronically to client within 24-72 h.

Typical Cost (incl. VAT, 2025)

Time on Site

• 30 – 60 minutes for a typical two-storey house – includes set-up, 10–20 min flight, and pack-down.   

• Up to 2–3 hours if the roof is very large/complex, nearby airspace constraints require staggered flights, or multiple battery cycles are needed.

Questions to Ask Your Tradie

1. Do you hold CAA operational authorisation (GVC / A2 CofC) and £1 m+ public-liability cover?

2. What deliverables are included – raw images only, annotated PDF, 3-D model, or full RICS-style report?

3. Will you check and manage any no-fly-zone permissions or local council consents?

4. How will adverse weather or high winds affect scheduling and price?

5. What resolution and lens set-up do you use, and can you zoom for close-ups of flashings?

6. How quickly will I receive the final report/raw files, and in what format?

7. Are travel, parking, and extra flight time chargeable beyond the quoted price?

How to Avoid Surprises ✔

• Confirm airspace – give the operator your exact postcode early so they can check restrictions.

• Clear the launch area in the garden/driveway and ensure occupants know to stay clear during flight.

• Arrange parking within 20 m of the property for rapid kit unload and battery swapping.

• Check weather window the evening before; strong winds or heavy rain will postpone flights.

• Advise of nearby obstacles (trees, overhead cables, scaffolding) that could limit line-of-sight.

• Discuss data security and who can access the imagery, especially on shared-ownership blocks.

With this guide you’ll know exactly what a professional drone roof inspection involves, the ball-park 2025 costs, and the right questions to keep the visit safe, legal and on budget.