In recent years, the use of drones in real estate marketing has surged, offering stunning aerial views and dynamic perspectives of properties. It’s an innovative tool that can help realtors showcase homes in a unique and compelling way. However, not all drone operators in this booming industry are licensed, and the consequences of hiring unlicensed drone operators can be significant. In this blog post, we’ll explore the potential pitfalls and repercussions that realtors may face when they opt for unlicensed drone services.
The Consequences of Realtors Hiring Unlicensed Drone Operators
Legal and Liability Issues: Hiring unlicensed drone operators can expose realtors to legal and liability problems. Drone pilots must obtain the necessary licenses and permits to operate commercially. When realtors engage unlicensed operators, they risk legal action and fines, as well as potential lawsuits if accidents or privacy breaches occur during the drone flights.
Safety Concerns: Unlicensed drone operators may lack the training and knowledge required to operate drones safely. This can pose a risk to people, property, and the drone itself. A mishap during a flight, such as a drone crashing into a building or a person, can result in injury, property damage, or costly repairs, tarnishing the realtor’s reputation and potentially leading to legal issues.
Quality and Professionalism: Licensed drone operators are typically more experienced and knowledgeable about the intricacies of capturing high-quality aerial footage. Hiring unlicensed operators may result in subpar images and videos that fail to effectively showcase the property’s features. This can hinder the realtor’s ability to attract potential buyers and achieve the desired impact in their marketing efforts.
Privacy Concerns: Drones equipped with cameras can intrude on the privacy of homeowners and neighbors. Licensed drone operators are more likely to adhere to privacy regulations and guidelines, whereas unlicensed operators may be unaware of or disregard such rules. Realtors hiring unlicensed operators may find themselves facing complaints from homeowners and potential legal issues related to privacy violations.
Damage to Reputation: Reputation is everything in the real estate industry. If clients or potential buyers perceive that a realtor is cutting corners by hiring unlicensed drone operators, it can damage their trust and reputation. Clients may question the realtor’s professionalism and commitment to their best interests.
Costly Revisions: Poorly executed drone footage may not effectively highlight a property’s unique selling points. When this happens, realtors may need to invest in additional marketing efforts or even reshoots with a licensed operator, incurring extra costs and delays in the process.
Missed Opportunities: The use of drones in real estate marketing can provide a competitive edge by showcasing properties in a visually stunning way. Realtors who hire unlicensed operators may miss out on opportunities to impress potential buyers and differentiate themselves from competitors who invest in high-quality, licensed drone services.
Agents Liability for Unlicensed Pilots
- Real Estate drone pilots must be licensed
- Up to an $11,000 FAA fine
- Liability for injuries or property damage
- Due diligence is agent responsibility
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) takes the licensing and regulation of drone operators seriously, and their authority extends not only to those operating drones but also to those who hire them. The FAA can impose steep fines not only on unlicensed drone operators but also agents who choose to employ their services without ensuring that the operators are properly licensed. With fines up to $11,000, this underscores the importance of due diligence for Realtors and other professionals in the real estate industry.
Any commercial activity, including real estate photography, requires a Remote Pilot Certificate from the FAA.
In conclusion, the consequences of hiring unlicensed drone operators in the real estate industry can be detrimental. Realtors may face legal, safety, and privacy issues, damage to their professional reputation, and increased costs to rectify subpar drone footage. To ensure the best results and mitigate potential risks, realtors should prioritize working with licensed and experienced drone operators who can provide high-quality, compliant, and safe aerial imagery for their property listings.
2 Comments
Can you site the actual FAA regulation?
Tks……
Sure, Robert. Here are laws covering unlicensed drone pilots and the people who hire them.
49 USC 46306(b) “A person shall be fined under title 18, imprisoned for not more than 3 years, or both, if the person (7)knowingly and willfully serves or attempts to serve in any capacity as an airman without an airman’s certificate authorizing the individual to serve in that capacity.
49 USC 46306(b) “A person shall be fined under title 18, imprisoned for not more than 3 years, or both, if the person (8)knowingly and willfully employs for service or uses in any capacity as an airman an individual who does not have an airman’s certificate authorizing the individual to serve in that capacity.