One of the biggest questions we get this time of year is "Can I only get a 6 month insurance policy instead of a full 12 month policy?" It's a fair question, especially for operators who work seasonally. Let's break down the reality of short-term drone insurance.
The Short Answer
Most underwriters in the aerial application space write 12-month policies. The reason is simple: the risk assessment, underwriting, and administration costs are roughly the same whether the policy is for 6 months or 12. Cutting the term in half doesn't cut the cost in half.
Why Annual Policies Make More Sense
- Year-round protection means your equipment is covered even in the off-season against theft, fire, and transit damage.
- Annual policies typically offer better per-month rates than short-term alternatives.
- You maintain continuous coverage history, which can lead to better rates over time.
- No gap in coverage means no gap in compliance if you need to fly unexpectedly.
What About Seasonal Operators?
If you truly only operate for a few months, talk to your agent about adjusting coverage levels during the off-season rather than canceling entirely. You can often reduce your liability limits while keeping hull coverage active—protecting your investment year-round at a lower cost.