Path-Q Solar
How can I assess the risk of severe weather damaging my solar panels?
Answer
Assess risk by combining the property's exposure to hail, wind, lightning, flooding, wildfire, snow, and falling debris with the roof condition, mounting design, equipment ratings, installation quality, and insurance coverage.
Key points
- Review the site's history and exposure for relevant severe-weather hazards.
- Check panel, racking, attachment, inverter, and battery specifications for applicable environmental ratings.
- Evaluate roof age, remaining life, drainage, tree proximity, and attachment points.
- Confirm that the design follows applicable structural and electrical requirements and manufacturer instructions.
- Review warranties and insurance for weather damage, removal, reinstallation, and consequential roof damage.
What it depends on
- Local hazard frequency and severity
- Roof structure and condition
- Mounting design and installation quality
- Equipment ratings and placement
- Insurance and warranty terms
Risks and trade-offs
- More robust equipment or mounting may increase upfront cost but reduce damage risk.
- A panel warranty may not cover all weather events or labor.
- Trees and nearby structures can create both impact and shading risks.
Information you may need
- Property hazard history and roof inspection
- Proposed structural and mounting design
- Equipment environmental ratings
- Insurance and warranty documents
Your next step
What to do next
Request a site-specific hazard and structural review that identifies the main weather exposures and the proposed mitigations.
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