Drones have revolutionized various industries, from real estate to agriculture, providing unparalleled perspectives and data collection capabilities for stakeholders and project managers. However, with the rise of drone technology comes the risk of encountering scams and drone service operators looking to take advantage of unsuspecting clients. Whether you’re a business owner, manager, or stakeholder, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential pitfalls when hiring a drone services company. Here are five common pitfalls to watch out for:
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1. Ownership Rights Ambiguity
The Scam: “You don’t own what you paid for.”
One of the most common scams in the drone services industry revolves around ownership rights and copyright licenses. Despite paying for drone photography or videography services, clients may find themselves in legal disputes over image usage rights. Some drone operators may charge extra fees or threaten litigation if their clients use the captured images in ways not explicitly agreed upon. This could be anything from using images on social media, print or online marketing campaigns, trade shows, or billboards.
Prevention: Before hiring a drone company, inquire about image ownership rights and copyright licenses. Ensure that the contract clearly specifies who retains ownership of the photographs or data upon delivery. This will avoid unexpected charges or legal issues down the line. Also it is a good idea to be sure both companies agree on long term usage rights before delivery of the data.
What's included in the PDF...
The key elements to look for in a professional drone pilot.
How to avoid government fines and personal liability.
What a drone license is, and how to confirm a pilot has one.
2. Unqualified Pilots Yielding Uncertain Results
The Scam: “Yes, we can do that.”
Startup drone companies eager to secure clients may overpromise and underdeliver. Unqualified pilots may accept projects beyond their expertise, putting client data and projects at risk. Some operators may also lack experience with specific equipment or workflows, leading to subpar results and even causing project delays.
Prevention: Prioritize established drone companies with a proven track record of completed projects and satisfied clients. Request references and samples of previous work to assess the quality and reliability of their services. Avoid operators who hesitate to provide evidence of their capabilities or rely on excuses to conceal their lack of experience.
Video Credit: Pennsylvania Department of Transportation
3. Fake Portfolios & Case Studies
The Scam: “What companies have you worked with before?”
When evaluating a drone services provider, you might inquire about the companies they’ve worked with in the past, especially those within your industry. Genuine portfolios and well-developed case studies can provide valuable insights into the capabilities and suitability of a drone company for your project. However, it’s crucial to remain vigilant against operators who fabricate case studies or misrepresent their client portfolio.
Prevention: Pay close attention to the authenticity of the portfolios and case studies presented by drone companies. Look for specific details and results achieved in their previous projects rather than generic or vague descriptions. Be wary of operators who refuse to disclose client names or provide evidence of their work. It is also a good idea to scrutinize portfolios for images or case studies that appear suspiciously generic or could have been obtained from stock photography websites. These images are often easy to check with services like Google Lens. By verifying the legitimacy of portfolios and case studies, you can ensure that you are partnering with a reputable and experienced drone services provider.
Related Article – How to Pitch Drone Solutions to Your Boss, a Step by Step Guide
4. Non-Delivery of Services After Payment
The Scam: “Sending upfront payment then ghosted.”
In some cases, dishonest drone operators may accept upfront payment for services but fail to deliver as promised or disappear altogether. Clients left in the lurch not only lose their money but also miss out on critical data or deliverables essential for their projects.
Prevention: Conduct thorough research before engaging a drone company, checking reviews, and requesting references from past clients. Consider using escrow services for larger projects to mitigate the risk of non-delivery. It is always a good idea to ensure a detailed contract outlines delivery timelines and payment terms to protect your company’s interests.
5. Bait-and-Switch Pricing Tactics
Scam: “Low initial price with unexpected fees”
Some drone companies lure clients in with low initial quotes only to tack on additional fees and charges later on. Clients expecting a straightforward pricing structure may be blindsided by hidden costs for equipment rental, photo editing, digital storage, copyright licensing, and more.
Prevention: Insist on a comprehensive contract that clearly outlines all pricing details and potential additional charges. Review the contract carefully to ensure that there are no ambiguities or room for unexpected fees. By clarifying pricing upfront, you can avoid falling victim to bait-and-switch tactics and budgetary surprises.
Getting Started with Drone Services
While drone technology offers incredible opportunities for businesses and individuals alike, it’s essential to exercise caution when hiring drone services. By staying vigilant and informed about common scams, you can safeguard your projects, data, and financial interests from unscrupulous operators in the drone industry.
At The Drone Life, our pilots are licensed by the FAA and possess extensive experience in handling specific project requirements. Our highly trained and experienced pilots are equipped to deliver exceptional results tailored to your project needs. Schedule a free consultation today to learn more about how our expertise can elevate your project to new heights.
What's included in the PDF...
The key elements to look for in a professional drone pilot.
How to avoid government fines and personal liability.
What a drone license is, and how to confirm a pilot has one.
