Roof Inspection With a Drone

Follow along with InterNACHI's Ben Gromicko as he performs a roof inspection while using a drone. One way to thoroughly and safely inspect a roof is by using a drone. Become drone certified today by visiting nachi.org/certification.

[@yamahaxs6501]

I'm adding a drone to my toolbox, so this is a nice and quick overview. thanks Ben.

[@internachi]

You got it.

[@grizinohio1]

To use a drone for roof inspections you can not use it as a set of flying binoculars. The best method is to fly a grid pattern over the roof shooting high quality images. Download those images and view them full scale and high definition. Shoot multiple angles, using a high quality camera. I currently use the DJI Air 2s for my roof inspections. This provides 20 Meg imagery and video over 4K. The 1 inch sensor allows me to photograph from a little further away. I take images looking up from the roof line as well. I rotate the gimbal up to get a great image of the roof.

[@internachi]

Nice, Digger.

[@speedbird7976]

How do I get certified for this besides the 107 certification

[@dajur1]

@@speedbird7976 Pass the drone ground exam and register it, then you are ready to go!

[@Odin31b]

That's the info I needed..

[@kylecouture1917]

@@speedbird7976 There is no other way to legally do this. You NEED a part 107 certification to fly any drone for any reason other than fun.

[@N7DRONES]

I did a roof inspection of my own roof the other day as I have some loose tiles and rubbish in my gutters , and some neighbour, comes to my door a day later and complains that I shouldn’t be doing that , and he will report me ! Go right ahead , I can fly over my own roof , and the drone never left my property boundary ! Some people are just dumb ! 😮

[@internachi]

Yep. I agree. Flying for fun over your own house should be just that - fun, and easy to do. Just want you to know about this: www.faa.gov/uas/recreational_flyers/knowledge_test_updates

[@russellbrooker2122]

You can fly over his house to their isnt any laws against it, its not Near a airport or closed air space

[@N7DRONES]

@@russellbrooker2122 in Australia you can fly over your own property, you can not fly over anyone’s private residence without their consent

[@jaymcluvin6809]

Great vid Ben

[@internachi]

Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@BrianClunie]

Awesome information thank you for sharing, I just subscribed!

[@internachi]

Thanks for the sub!

[@Stanthebop]

Many thanks for this video - just what I was looking for. Could you please let us have your thoughts about your experience on the kind of lifetime (in flying hours) you would expect from the DJI mini 2 drone?

[@internachi]

Thanks for watching.

[@ghostriderwashere]

Does that drone come with the remote control. I’m there site it doesn’t seem to say. I would assume it does.

[@internachi]

Yes. That drone has the remote control.

[@dankdriven5827]

thanks for the idea ! 🙏🏾

[@internachi]

youre welcome

[@skywalkerair]

Thank you for a great video.

[@internachi]

I appreciate that! Thanks for watching. I teach free online classes for inspectors at www.nachi.org/webinars. Free, online, and open to everyone.

[@ghostriderwashere]

Do any of you guys use drones exclusively for your inspections? I know there may be some houses that have circumstances where flying one is not doable but how many guys have done away with climbing on roofs and went strictly with drones?

[@internachi]

Yes. Many fly drones to do the roof and property inspections. No need for ladders now.

[@htfirefuze8653]

@@internachi yessss!! This is what i wanted to hear! Nobody wants to be climbing ladders and maybe die one day from falling because of a poorly built roof. You never know!!

[@shawnbridge4263]

do you use the drone for inspecting the inside if its a crawlspace?

[@internachi]

I would not. Too tight.

[@dajur1]

When you use your phone as the eyes of the Mini 2 (or 3), is it easy to take quick pictues and videos and save them directly to your phone?

[@jacksheehy5328]

With one click of the button it takes a photo of whatever the camera is showing you on the screen of your phone. Then these photos save directly to your phone. Sometimes they need to be downloaded after the drone lands but all of my photos save automatically as soon as I take them right to my camera roll

[@internachi]

Nice. Agreed.

[@tjmaineinspector]

I'm happy to see this video! If you like some videos and photos, I will be more than happy to share what I have to help other inspectors.

[@internachi]

Please do!

[@tjmaineinspector]

@@internachi I wanted to teach classes in the InterNACHI school for how to use drones on Inspections and safety with a few on Septics

[@edwardrtt]

do you need to be a certified inspector to do this work? ie only take pics to send to claims adjustor?

[@internachi]

Yes. You have to take the FAA drone pilot exam.

[@edwardrtt]

@@internachi I already have 107. How do I do this. Do I need to be certified roof inspector

[@internachi]

Visit faadronezone-access.faa.gov/#/

[@edwardrtt]

@@internachi already 107, and drone is registered with FAA, how or can I do this, take Pic send Pic to who ever needs them, do I need to get cert in roofs or anything or who can I go to, I'm in WV, VA area

[@homemadesolutionsandideas5239]

I was wondering the same thing. I got my drone a couple months ago and passed my 107 a couple weeks ago. I've inspected my own roof - main reason my wife wanted me to get the drone. However, now that I'm FAA Remote Pilot certified, I'd like to do it for other people. However, I'm not qualified/trained to actually 'inspect' a roof. My line of thought is to do what you suggested - take pics/vids for the customer that they can give to their inspector/adjustor. Btw...I grew up in Charleston, WVa. Beautiful area, especially in the fall!

[@Distoke4]

I don't remember covering satellite roof mount flashing in any of my courses. Never seen it installed that way, lol.

[@internachi]

Yep.

[@Halfwaytohope]

I see it says “mini 2”, but could you please tell me the name of the drone? Thanks!

[@internachi]

DJI

[@vipnetworker]

How would you do an inspection or take photos without a drone? How was this done before drones?

[@internachi]

I use my camera.

[@TheOblivionMemeGuy]

Do you need a license still for drones that are lighter than the weight class requirement?

[@grizinohio1]

Yes, weight is not relevant if you are using the drone for commercial purposes.

[@internachi]

For commercial, yes. You need to pass the FAA exam. We have a prep course for that exam.

[@internachi]

There's something special about registering a drone that's under 250 grams.

[@tjmaineinspector]

Any drone (below or above 250grams) that's used for a commercial purpose, has to be registered and you need a part 107 license.

[@crossbowsniper]

@@tjmaineinspector Doesn't even have to be for commercial purposes, if it is used for self promotion even though no money is made and it is not used for anything other than promoting yourself (i.e. a non monetized youtube channel for instance) then it still needs the part 107 and the registration per FAA guidelines.

[@MrBuchanan333]

How much does a drone pilot charge for doing a roof inspection

[@internachi]

That's up to you. I would include it for free for my home inspection.

[@jaramiahmarquez8966]

Well damn, what are you required to do?

[@internachi]

The requirements are listed at www.nachi.org/sop

[@hkdanahui]

There's one time the drone suddenly landed itself on the roof while I was shooting, I wonder if I might have decended it too close to the roof? Should I keep drone still at a reasonable height and zoom to check on the roof or gutters?

[@internachi]

Glad you enjoyed watching the video.

[@SilentStudioExplores]

As a drone flyer myself, avoid flying too low. Dji has an auto landing feature at like 2 ft. If you shoot in full res and play back the footage on a computer you can do a post zoom to find defects closer. Idk if this helps or if you have already figured this out 🤷‍♂️

[@hkdanahui]

@@SilentStudioExplores After the sudden landing, I tended to keep the drone away from the roof for a good distance, and it seems working! Your reply affirmed my thinking and provided a good suggestion on zooming on the photos, thanks again.

[@Maruman_man]

use your zoom

[@smashhitz6653]

Hi I'm from malaysia. Can I become certified home inspector even I'm not from US?

[@internachi]

Easy 6 steps to certification at www.nachi.org/cpi-requirements.htm

[@alexjimenez4851]

Drip edge was installed over shingles

[@internachi]

Glad you enjoyed watching the video.

[@Maruman_man]

you don't have to be an FAA certified pilot to fly the mini2. Only to inspect and charge

[@internachi]

The law requires that all recreational flyers pass an aeronautical knowledge and safety test and provide proof of passage if asked by law enforcement or FAA personnel. The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) was developed to meet this requirement. If the drone is less than 250 grams, you don't have to register it. But you still have to take the test. www.faa.gov/uas/recreational_flyers/knowledge_test_updates

[@dlopdx]

How much is a average roof inspection ?

[@internachi]

I would charge per value of the information provided.

[@alligatorshade8110]

I want to do this but I worry about the line of sight rules with the FAA, any advise?

[@sampb0906]

They’re making slight changes to the VLOS rule. But most houses you should be able to have line of sight.

[@internachi]

Thank you for watching.

[@vonkriktonite838]

I have taken off and landed in multiple locations around the same house to get the full set of photos / video if for some reason I cannot see my drone due to trees or other obstacles. and I go slow. it just isn't worth crashing your drone. :)

[@Hotshotscott]

Can the drone crease shingles tho

[@internachi]

Hm. Maybe.

[@kennedykaltavara7673]

Thanks Sir, I will buy a drone and start on it.

[@internachi]

Go for it!

[@Jack__________]

Aside from the part 107 certificate... what other training or certifications do you need to start inspecting roofs?

[@internachi]

I recommend www.nachi.org/certified-roof-inspector.htm

[@orangeblossomhomeinspectio432]

Mmmmmm....Florida windy days. John Grimaldi CMI and InterNACHI Home Inspector Mentor

[@internachi]

Drone vs. Wind.

[@videos40058]

maby in america is like that but this roof can be reconditioned with a fraction of the costs. Lol inspector this roof will last as it is another 30 years:))

[@internachi]

Okay.

[@carlosluque3285]

Thats great video ben thank you

[@internachi]

You're welcome.

[@michaelwinter742]

“Drone” is a loose word and doesn’t have to preclude walking the roof. A GoPro on a pole can reach unsafe areas and get you views otherwise inaccessible. I feel like a padwon lecturing Yoda.

[@internachi]

You're correct. Good comment.

[@Danny-fs1hk]

Cool

[@internachi]

Thanks

[@lewchishelltaya5745]

WARNING: Using a drone exposes you to other risks. Some things on a roof CANNOT be inspected properly with a drone. The list is actually quite large. A few of them are, weak sheathing, loose plumbing vents, comp not attached to flashing, unable to get to an angel to view flashing or the underside of eaves, unable to get close enough to vents to ensure screens are in place, and more. When walking on a roof you can clear debris to inspect further, often revealing issues. You can also touch things like antennas, chimneys, flashing and more to determine if they're secure. I understand that drones can be useful for a roof that simply cannot be safely walked, but make it the exception not the standard. At minimum get your ladder out and view it from different edges. Avoid the drone until it's simply the best option, which is really only ever going to be over binoculars. Also, regarding what you're required to do or not, don't make the MINIMUM requirements your standard. Go above and beyond what's required if it's not going to be a huge risk. There's always risk when inspecting. If you eliminate all of them you just become the inspector that everyone hates, the one that says, "consult a qualified professional for further inspection" for everything. Also, that roof is weathered like a 14-17 yr old roof, and it's a 25 yr shingle. I don't see any shiny fiberglass edges and relatively minimal black asphalt that would indicate heavy granulation loss. The minor curling of the shingles is the quickest indication that you have multiple layers, however, and that can reduce life expectancy by as much as half, depending on shingle type and installation method. I feel bad if you're telling people that a roof like this is end-of-life. 😬Sorry bro. If my perfect vision can't see it with your 4K video, it's not there. I do see an old satellite bracket with bolts through the roof that aren't sealed over and should be regularly maintained. Wrinkles in rolled roofing typically indicate improper installation or underlying moisture penetration. These spots often cause water pooling that could allow for moisture to seep in at those, now weak, wrinkled joints. Maybe you just need more time on roofs and getting accurate info about the install date and covering life. I'd suggest spending some time with an experienced roofer.

[@internachi]

Correct. The drone is very good for inspecting the roof-covering materials. Drone can't inspect components and conditions that require a physical presence and contact with the component or system itself.

[@wanaraz]

I was going to say as just a homeowner with viewing the video the granules looked good and no cracks in the shingles that I could see as a novice. Also different locations or states probably present different problems. My last house built in 1996 with a standard roof like in the video was sold in 2020 with no leaks anywhere. All the granules were in the rain gutter every year in Northern California. When I sold the house I gave money to the new owner for the roof but as of to this day he has not replaced the roof. No Leeks! So these roofs in some places can last a long time.

[@devonteturner5505]

It really can depends on your software and 3d modeling with artificial intelligence catching things that we as humans can possibly miss during an inspection artificial intelligence can catch things from CERTAIN parts of the AC UNIT not being installed correctly to certain parts of the roof leaking water that may not look as such from you directly looking at it artificial intelligence then grades it depending on how bad of a risk factor it is even if it’s not a problem now it potentially will be a problem 5,6 months to even a year down the line

[@lewchishelltaya5745]

@@devonteturner5505 The ai I'm using right now says you don't have a clue what your talking about. ... that's weird

[@devonteturner5505]

@@lewchishelltaya5745 😂🤣🤣

[@bossiniada]

The roof tile should all be replaced after 5 years with metal tile.

[@internachi]

Hm. Not sure about that recommendation.

[@infidel4478]

You don't have to be a faa pilot to fly a drone. And you can check your own roof or a friends roof as long as you aren't charging money for it and follow normal rules. You do need a faa license if you want to use it to make money etc.

[@internachi]

Right. Unless you're a professor of a class at an accredited college like internachi.edu/.

[@wanaraz]

That also depends on how high you fly or where you fly etc.

[@badfoot11]

he started off with a lie ! YOU DO NOT NEED A LICENCE TO INSPECT YOUR ROOF WITH A DRONE ! this is a sure sign YOU ARE ABOUT TO GET SCREWED !

[@internachi]

Nope. You're incorrect. Please review the video again. Maybe twice. It starts at kzbin.info/www/bejne/mpXTl4t3aduqbMU where I say that you have to have an FAA pilot license to fly a drone.

[@whitmeradventures9602]

@@internachi you don't need a part 107 to inspect your own roof.

[@sampb0906]

You need a part 107 if you’re flying commercially. I fly for work and i needed a license to do so. You don’t know what you’re talking about. Obviously yes you could survey your own roof but technically in order to use that with an insurance company it would need to be done by a professional and that would mean someone with a license. 😂

[@whitmeradventures9602]

@@sampb0906 I have my 107 and my Actual fixed wing private/ instrument but go off about being wrong. Unless you're making money from it or promoting a business then you don't need a commercial.

[@inshoreman87]

@@whitmeradventures9602 you do need 107 for this. Since he uses it for his business, which makes money and utilizes as a tool, and does not lose sight of the drone, he needs it per 107.1 Applicability. Because it is not used for recreational purposes he is required.

[@fillupread]

You do not have to have an FFA license to fly a toy. Clown

[@internachi]

Incorrect. If you fly a drone for commercial purposes, you have to pass the FAA pilot exam.

[@fredpenner5667]

@@internachi And no response from the know it all troll as expected.

[@adriandc9761]

Do I need a FAA license to fly one for a home inspection? Thank you!

[@elliott44597]

You do

[@internachi]

Yes you do. Start here at www.nachi.org/certified-drone-pilot-training.htm