Scenario: What Happens When Your Drone Goes Down?
You’re filming a wedding when your drone suddenly loses connection and crashes into a guest’s car. Or worse, you’re surveying a construction site, and the drone malfunctions, injuring a worker below. Now, you’re facing repair costs, liability claims, or even a lawsuit. Without the proper insurance, these expenses come straight out of your pocket. Here’s how drone insurance can protect you.
1. Drone Photography Insurance
What It Covers: Liability protection if your drone causes injury or property damage, plus coverage for loss or damage to your drone and camera.
✔ Pros: Covers liability, theft, and damage; required by many clients
✖ Cons: Can be expensive; typically for commercial use only
👤 Who Needs It? Professional photographers, real estate agents, filmmakers
Who Doesn’t? Hobbyists flying drones for fun
2. Drone Camera Insurance
What It Covers: High-end cameras and other drone-mounted equipment, including theft and accidental damage.
✔ Pros: Covers expensive camera repairs or replacement; protects against theft
✖ Cons: May not cover pilot error; deductibles can be high
👤 Who Needs It? Aerial photographers, surveyors, filmmakers
Who Doesn’t? Owners using drones with built-in or inexpensive cameras
3. Drone Insurance in the U.S.
What It Covers: Comprehensive protection, including liability, hull (physical damage), and theft. Policies vary depending on whether the use is commercial or recreational.
✔ Pros: Covers accidents, theft, and liability; ensures FAA compliance
✖ Cons: Policy costs vary; some exclusions for pilot mistakes
👤 Who Needs It? Commercial drone operators, business owners, licensed pilots
Who Doesn’t? Recreational users who are comfortable self-insuring their drone
4. Drone Replacement Insurance
What It Covers: Full or partial replacement of your drone if it’s lost, stolen, or damaged beyond repair.
✔ Pros: Helps replace costly drones; some policies include accidental damage
✖ Cons: Can be expensive; exclusions may apply for reckless flying
👤 Who Needs It? Business operators, drone racers, and commercial pilots
Who Doesn’t? Owners of inexpensive drones that are easy to replace
5. Drone General Liability Insurance
What It Covers: Protection from financial loss if your drone injures someone or damages property.
✔ Pros: Covers lawsuits, medical claims, and property damage
✖ Cons: Doesn’t cover damage to your own drone
👤 Who Needs It? Commercial drone operators, event photographers, and real estate agents
Who Doesn’t? Hobbyists flying in unpopulated areas
6. Additional Drone Insurance Options
- Commercial Drone Insurance: Full coverage for business use, including liability and hull protection
- Hobby Drone Insurance: Covers accidental damage for recreational users
- On-Demand Insurance: Pay-as-you-go coverage for occasional drone use
Protect Your Drone and Your Business Today
Drone accidents can be costly, but the right insurance keeps you covered. Whether you’re a professional or a hobbyist, securing a policy can save you thousands in potential damages. Get a free drone insurance quote today. Contact The Annuity Expert to find the best coverage at the lowest price.
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Questions From Our Readers
Do you need drone insurance in the US?
In the United States, there is no FAA requirement for businesses using drones, whether for recreational or commercial purposes, to purchase insurance, as insurance is not mandated by law.
What are the exclusions for drone insurance?
Insurance policies typically have a clause excluding aircraft coverage, which also applies to drones. This means that any harm caused by a drone to a third party, whether used for business or recreation, will not be covered under most homeowners and general liability policies.
Are drones tax-deductible?
Section 179 of the tax code can be utilized to purchase commercial drones. Your business can deduct the entire cost of qualifying equipment, such as drones, from the taxable income in the year of purchase. This way, you won’t need to depreciate the cost over several years.
Can you fly a drone without registering it with the FAA?
Drones weighing less than 0.55 pounds (250 grams) flown exclusively for recreational purposes are exempt from registration. If a drone is registered under part 107, it can be used for both recreational and part 107 purposes.