An insurance adjuster hires a remote pilot to document a residential roof after a hailstorm. On arrival, the pilot finds the homeowner is not present but a neighbor unlocked the gate with verbal permission from the homeowner. The adjuster confirms the scope of work by phone. What should the remote PIC verify before launching?
Why →Flying over private property without the owner's permission is not, by itself, a Part 107 violation, but state trespass, privacy, and harassment laws vary by jurisdiction and can apply to flights over private land. Getting documented owner consent before commercial overflight of residential property is common professional practice and reduces disputes. The adjuster hiring you does not speak for the property owner. This is general education, not legal advice; consult a local attorney for specific situations.
The trap →The nothing-further option reflects a common misunderstanding that flying under Part 107 settles everything. The FAA regulates the airspace, but state and local laws can still apply to what you do over private land.
Field note →A simple written authorization form kept in your pre-flight folder (client, property owner, date, scope) is common in insurance documentation work. Many adjusters will have a template they want you to use.