Drones, or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), are increasingly being utilized in the real estate sector, with their potential applications expanding at a rapid pace. From conducting bird’s eye surveys to inspecting hard-to-reach areas and investigating potential violations of planning regulations, drones have become an essential tool for professionals in the real estate industry.
One of the primary uses of drone technology in real estate is conducting bird’s eye and panoramic surveys, particularly beneficial for large agricultural sites or greenfield development projects. Drones are also employed to carry out inspections in challenging locations and identify potential breaches of planning regulations.
Additionally, drones have the capability to access hazardous or otherwise inaccessible areas, such as dilapidated buildings with structural issues or known contamination. They can provide footage for 3D surface models and overlapping imagery, thereby offering a more comprehensive view of the property.
Real estate enterprises are proactively preparing for the increased utilization of drones. Clients, such as Cubex Land, are already integrating drone landing pads into their new schemes, as exemplified by the Halo Building in Bristol.
However, as drone technology continues to advance and become more prevalent in the real estate industry, there are legal aspects that need to be considered. In England and Wales, the prevailing legal standpoint is that a landowner has ownership of the immediate airspace above their land up to a certain altitude, which may affect the use of drones in the airspace above properties.
When planning drone landing spots or vertiports for new build and refurbishment projects, landlords and developers need to take into account planning permission, as well as the ecological impact of drone flight on animals, particularly birds.
Privacy and GDPR considerations related to the use of drones in real estate are also significant. Drones are equipped with increasingly sophisticated cameras and recording devices, raising concerns about privacy and data protection. Landlords and operators must ensure compliance with regulations and consider potential disturbance to occupants.
Looking ahead, companies are exploring various potential uses for drone technology, including air taxi services, commercial delivery, and medical supply transportation, illustrating the vast scope of applications for drone technology in the real estate sector.
As the use of drones in real estate continues to grow, it is evident that more legislation and regulation will be required to address privacy, flight paths, and areas of national security. Despite the regulatory obstacles, the potential for drone usage in real estate is undeniable, making it an area that warrants close observation in the years to come.
In conclusion, the use of drone technology in the real estate industry is steadily expanding, presenting both opportunities and challenges for the sector. As this technology evolves, real estate professionals will need to navigate the legal, privacy, and regulatory considerations while maximizing the benefits offered by drone technology.
For more information, you can contact Louise Irvine, a Senior Knowledge Development Lawyer at Forsters, on +44 (0)20 7863 8333.
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