Checkatrade Drone Surveys: What It Means for Trades

The Checkatrade Drone Survey is designed to help homeowners spot roofing issues early — and connect them with trusted Checkatrade roofers for repair work. This guide explains how the service supports your business, how it generates additional jobs, and how you can use it to strengthen customer confidence.

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Will This Service Take Jobs Away From Me?

No — this service is built to generate more work, not less.

Many homeowners avoid roof inspections because they’re costly or inconvenient. By offering an affordable and accessible drone survey, more homeowners will become aware of potential problems and will be guided toward Checkatrade members like you for repairs.

If an issue is identified, homeowners are immediately connected to local roofers through Checkatrade.

More informed customers also means better-quality leads. When a homeowner has a report in hand, they’ll better understand what needs doing before they contact you.

How Can I Use the Drone Survey to My Advantage?

If a homeowner is unsure about your recommendations, you can suggest a Checkatrade drone roof survey from as little as £99. It’s an independent, low-cost way to show what’s happening on the roof and help them feel confident moving forward.

A drone survey is also useful when:

• It isn’t safe to inspect the roof in person

• Certain areas are difficult to access

• You want clear evidence to support your quote

Whether it’s reassurance for the homeowner or backup for your advice, a drone survey helps get the job sorted safely and simply.

Will the Drone Survey Affect My Current Leads?

No. Your existing Checkatrade leads won’t be impacted. The Drone Survey is an additional service designed to increase homeowner awareness of roofing issues — which ultimately drives more work toward Checkatrade members.

How Do I Get Jobs From the Drone Survey?

If a homeowner’s report identifies an issue, they’ll be directed to Checkatrade roofers in their area for quotes and repairs.

Homeowners can search for local members to complete the work.

You can also be proactive by suggesting a Drone Survey to customers who aren’t sure about the condition of their roof — helping reinforce the need for repair work.

What Does the AI-Generated Report Include?

Each Drone Survey report contains:

• High-quality images of the full roof

• A clear summary of visible issues, such as:

  • Missing tiles

  • Structural concerns

  • Chimney stack defects

  • Ventilation issues

• Indicators showing what needs urgent attention versus minor maintenance

What If a Homeowner Asks Me to Verify the Report?

The Drone Survey is not a professional survey, but it highlights visible issues that can act as a starting point.

You can review the report with the homeowner and provide your expert opinion on the best next steps.

What If I Work Outside the Pilot Locations?

At the moment, the Checkatrade Drone Survey is only available in:

• Newcastle

• Reading

• Oxford

If the pilot is successful, the service may expand into other areas in future.

Will the Drone Survey Be Promoted More Than My Listing?

No. Your Checkatrade listing will continue to appear as normal and will receive the same exposure.

The Drone Survey is designed to complement roofing work — not replace traditional services or member listings.

How Can I Join as a Drone Pilot?

If you are a licensed drone operator and want to be considered for the Checkatrade Drone Survey programme, visit: Checkatrade Roof Inspections

You’ll find full details on how to apply.