Private and Hobby Drone Insurance

Private and Hobby Drone Insurance guide

Flying a drone for enjoyment can still create questions about damage to someone else's property, injury to others or loss of your equipment. Start by separating liability protection from coverage for the drone itself, then ask what terms are available for your flying.

Check BWI's quote requirements first

BWI currently requires a Part 107 certificate for drone quote requests, including recreational flying. If you only hold TRUST completion or are unsure whether you qualify, contact BWI before starting an application.

This is a requirement for BWI's quote process, not a statement that every recreational flight requires a Part 107 certificate. The FAA has a separate framework for qualifying recreational operations, including TRUST and other operating requirements. Review the FAA's recreational-flyer guidance to understand which rules apply to your flights.

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What protection should a recreational flyer ask about?

• Liability: Ask how the proposed policy addresses covered claims for injury or damage to others arising from your drone operations.
• Physical damage: If you want the drone itself insured, confirm the aircraft, insured value, deductible and covered causes of loss.
• Cameras and other equipment: Identify payloads, controllers and accessories separately. Do not assume every item is included with the aircraft.
• The way you fly: Describe recreational photography, racing, travel or other activities accurately and ask whether the proposed policy addresses them.

Coverage depends on the policy and the facts of a loss. A list of coverage names does not mean each item is automatically included. Ask the insurer or broker to explain the actual wording, exclusions and conditions.

Does homeowners insurance already cover my drone?

Ask your homeowners or renters insurer to review the actual policy. Questions about the drone as property and liability arising from a flight should be considered separately. Tell the insurer how you use the drone, including any paid work, and request an explanation of applicable limits, exclusions and deductibles.

Keep a manufacturer's repair or replacement plan separate in this comparison. Read what that agreement promises rather than assuming it provides the same protection as an insurance policy.

Prepare these details before asking for a quote

• Your drone make, model and requested insured value.
• The cameras, payloads and other equipment you want reviewed.
• Who flies, their qualifications and relevant experience.
• Where and how you fly, including any travel or paid activities.
• Your current insurance and the questions you want answered.

For help organizing the information, use BWI's drone insurance quote checklist. For pricing factors, see our drone insurance cost guide.

Talk with BWI about your next step

Review the current requirements on our drone insurance page, or call 800-666-4359 to discuss your situation. You can also email [email protected].

Reviewed November 4, 2026. Insurance availability is subject to underwriting. Coverage is governed by the issued policy and is not effective until binding is confirmed in writing.

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