The Future of Drone Technology in Property Adjusting
Drones are quickly becoming one of the most useful tools in a property adjuster’s toolkit. What used to be a niche technology is now transforming how inspections are done, saving time, improving safety, and providing better data.
And this is just the beginning.
If you are not yet using drones in your work, it is worth paying attention. Here is a look at where drone technology is heading and how it will impact property adjusting in the years ahead.
Faster, Safer Inspections
One of the biggest advantages of using drones is speed. Traditional roof inspections can be slow, physically demanding, and sometimes dangerous. Drones change that.
With a drone, you can scan an entire roof in a matter of minutes without ever leaving the ground. No ladders. No harnesses. No climbing unstable surfaces after a storm.
Drone software is also improving. Many drones now offer pre-programmed flight paths to ensure you capture consistent images and video every time. This means faster inspections, safer working conditions, and a more efficient claims process.
Better Data and Smarter Reports
It is not just about taking pictures anymore. Today’s drones can capture high-resolution images, thermal data, 3D models, and even LiDAR scans.
This advanced data helps you detect hidden damage, measure loss areas accurately, and create clear reports for carriers and policyholders. Many software platforms are starting to offer AI tools that can automatically analyze drone images and flag potential issues.
The result? Less time spent reviewing files and more confidence in your assessments.
New Ways to Use Drones
Right now, drones are most commonly used for roof inspections and large commercial losses. But that is starting to change.
Drones are now being used to assess damage after floods, wildfires, and hurricanes. In post-disaster environments, they can quickly scan entire neighborhoods, giving carriers a big-picture view of the damage and helping prioritize claims.
There are also new small drones being developed for indoor inspections. These can navigate through damaged or hazardous interiors where it might be unsafe to send an adjuster.
What You Should Know
If you want to start using drones in your work, here are a few things to keep in mind.
You need to be licensed. In the U.S., this means getting your FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
Learn the basics. Understanding how to fly safely, plan flights, and troubleshoot issues will help you get the most from your drone.
Drones are a tool, not a replacement. They enhance inspections, but personal contact and adjuster judgment are still key.
Drones are not the future of property adjusting. They are the present, and they are only going to become more important.
If you invest in learning how to use this technology now, you will put yourself ahead of the curve and deliver better results for your carriers and your policyholders.