🛡️ Risk Management: Ensuring Your PV System is Fully Protected

An owned solar system is considered an attached fixture and is typically covered under the 'Dwelling' portion of a standard homeowner's insurance policy, but it requires verification.

1. Verifying Your Coverage

You must inform your insurance agent about the new system.

• ✅ Dwelling Coverage: Owned rooftop solar is usually covered for perils like fire, wind, hail, and theft, as long as the dwelling coverage limit is high enough to include the system's replacement cost.
• ✅ Umbrella/Rider Policy: For very large or ground-mounted systems, or if you want specific component protection (e.g., against faulty installation), you may need a separate rider.
• PPA/Lease: The solar provider maintains the insurance on leased systems, but you should verify who is responsible for the system while it's on your roof.

2. Potential Impact on Premiums

The impact on your annual premium is usually minimal.

• Increase: Premiums may increase slightly (usually less than \$100/year) because the total replacement value of your home has increased by the system's cost.
• Deductible: Ensure you understand your deductible amount for solar claims, as it is often tied to the dwelling deductible.

Lightning and Storm Damage

Solar systems are grounded to protect against lightning strikes, but in the event of severe storm damage (hail, high winds), the claim process is the same as a roof or structural claim. Always document the damage and inform your installer immediately. 💡