1. Make Sure They Are FAA-Certified (Part 107 Licensed)

In the U.S., anyone flying a drone for commercial purposes (real estate, inspections, mapping, etc.) must hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
This license ensures the pilot understands:

• Airspace classifications and flight restrictions

• Weather, safety, and emergency procedures

• Legal altitude and operational limits

Tip: Ask to see their Part 107 license before hiring. It’s your proof that they’re qualified and insured to operate legally.

2. Confirm They Have Insurance

Professional drone operators should carry drone liability insurance at minimum.
Insurance protects both the pilot and the client if something goes wrong — such as:

• Property damage

• Bodily injury

• Equipment loss or malfunction

Many professional pilots also carry hull coverage (for drone damage) and payload insurance (for expensive cameras).

Pro tip: Always ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI) listing your company or property as an additional insured if applicable.

3. Ask About Experience and Specialization

Drones can be used for many purposes, and experience matters depending on your project:

• Real Estate: Look for cinematic video and photo examples.

• Construction/Mapping: Ask about accuracy, data deliverables, and software used (e.g., DroneDeploy, Pix4D).

• Inspections: Check if they have experience with thermal or zoom inspections.

Request a portfolio or sample project to make sure their skill set matches your needs.

4. Understand What Deliverables You'll Receive

Be clear on what you’re getting. Common deliverables include:

• Edited photos and videos

• 2D maps or 3D models

• Site progress documentation

• Raw data files (if requested)

Ask about turnaround times, file formats, and how data will be delivered (cloud link, USB, etc.). Knowing this up front prevents misunderstandings later.

5. Safety Procedures and Flight Planning

Professional pilots follow strict safety and pre-flight protocols. Ask questions such as:

• Do you perform a site assessment before flying?

• How do you handle crowded or urban areas?

• Do you follow local airspace rules and weather checks?
  A true professional will explain their process confidently and may even provide a flight safety plan.