Think you’re covered because your videographer showed you their insurance certificate? If they’re using a drone, think again.

The Hard Truth About Drone Coverage

Here’s something every venue owner needs to know: Every single vendor policy has a UAV (drone) exclusion. Yes, every single one. No exceptions.

Why Your COI Isn’t Enough

That certificate of insurance (COI) your drone operator proudly handed you? It’s not telling you the whole story. Here’s why:

  1. Standard policies exclude all drone operations
  2. Coverage only exists if there’s a scheduled aircraft endorsement
  3. Only specific, listed drones are covered
  4. The drone being used must match the schedule exactly

The Missing Piece

To actually have drone coverage, you need two critical documents:

  • The certificate of insurance (COI)
  • The schedule of covered aircraft

This schedule might be:

  • In the policy declarations
  • On a separate endorsement form
  • Buried deep in the policy

What’s at Stake?

Picture this scenario: A drone’s lithium battery explodes over your venue. The burning debris lands on your roof. Without proper coverage, you’re facing:

  • Complete property loss
  • No coverage from the vendor’s policy
  • Full financial responsibility
  • Potential business closure

Protect Your Venue

Always require:

  1. Standard certificate of insurance
  2. Specific schedule showing covered aircraft
  3. Verification that the actual drone being used matches the schedule

Don’t Take Chances

If a vendor can’t provide both documents showing their specific drone is covered, you have two choices:

  1. No drone footage
  2. Major liability exposure

The choice should be obvious.

Beyond Basic Coverage

Remember:

  • Different drones need different coverage
  • Equipment changes need updated schedules
  • Annual policy renewals need new verification
  • Each drone operator needs separate documentation

Take Action Now

  1. Check your current vendor files
  2. Request aircraft schedules from drone operators
  3. Update your vendor requirements
  4. Verify all documentation matches

Don’t let a coverage gap in the sky create a crisis on the ground.