Thermal inspection cost
Thermal finds what photos miss: wet insulation under a flat roof, heat loss, hot electrical parts. Here is what it usually adds to a visual drone inspection.
Choose a property type.
Thermal prices listed operators publish
These are prices the operators post on their own sites (read 2026-11-14). They are one company’s price in one market, not a national average. Ask for a written quote.
| Operator | Service | Published price | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas Aerial Group | Thermal add-on (any roof) | +$125 | Post-sunset moisture pass, radiometric data. Official site |
| Texas Aerial Group | Standalone thermal survey | from $275 | Electrical, envelope, or moisture focus. Official site |
| SkyView Drone Services | Thermal inspection | $349 | Pricing varies with urgency and location. Official site |
| Alabama Drone Pros | Thermal package, residential / small commercial | from $349 | Up to 5,000 sq ft; commercial / industrial from $699 up to 50,000 sq ft. Official site |
| Phoenix Drone Pros | Thermal roof inspection | $400 first hour on site | $200 each additional hour; after-hours or emergency add $200. Official site |
| Desert Drones (Tucson) | Thermal scan, commercial roof or array (Tucson) | $500–$1,500 | Depends on size and deliverables. Official site |
Common questions
How much does a thermal drone inspection add?
Rotor Rate’s 2026 roof guide says a thermal or radiometric roof scan runs about 40–80% over the visual price. Its general inspection guide uses 30–60% for other assets such as towers.
Why are thermal roof scans flown at night?
Wet insulation holds heat longer than dry insulation. After sunset, wet areas show up warmer on a thermal camera. Several listed operators describe post-sunset moisture passes on their own pages.
Do I need radiometric thermal?
If the report must show temperatures (for an energy audit, solar warranty claim, or electrical work), yes. A radiometric file stores a temperature for each pixel. Use the Radiometric thermal filter.