Path-Q Solar
What roof warranty risk should a landlord assess before installing solar on a recently renovated commercial roof?
Answer
Confirm in writing that the proposed solar attachments, penetrations, ballast, flashing, and maintenance will not void or narrow the existing roof warranty. The landlord should identify who is responsible for roof leaks, investigation, removal and reinstallation, and warranty preservation.
Key points
- Obtain the complete roof warranty, inspection records, approved materials, exclusions, and remaining term.
- Ask the roof manufacturer or warrantor to approve the solar design and installer in writing where required.
- Coordinate roof and solar contracts so responsibility for leaks and causation is not left ambiguous.
- Evaluate whether solar installation changes future roof replacement access, cost, or warranty conditions.
What it depends on
- Roof warranty language and issuer
- Solar attachment and waterproofing method
- Roof condition and remaining life
- Installer and manufacturer approval requirements
- Contract allocation of leak and removal responsibility
Risks and trade-offs
- A warranty exclusion may transfer substantial leak or reinstallation risk to the landlord.
- Roof work may require solar removal, causing cost and lost production.
- Avoiding penetrations may reduce roof risk but increase ballast, wind, structural, or maintenance concerns.
Information you may need
- Roof warranty and renovation documentation
- Proposed attachment and waterproofing details
- Written warrantor approval
- Roof and solar contract responsibilities
- Removal and reinstallation pricing
Your next step
What to do next
Obtain written approval from the roof warrantor and a coordinated leak-responsibility plan before selecting the solar design.
Path-Q
Find the right next step
Answer a few questions and we’ll narrow your options.
Loading…
SQ03283