Solar panels are a great investment for both homes and businesses. They help cut down electricity costs, reduce carbon footprints, and boost energy independence. However, there’s one thing many people overlook – what happens if a hailstorm damages your solar panels? This concern is valid, especially for those living in hail-prone areas.
In this blog, we’ll break down how to protect your solar panels from hail damage and, more importantly, whether hail damage insurance covers you. We’ll also give some personal tips on navigating solar panel insurance to ensure your investment is safe from the unpredictable forces of nature.
Understanding Solar Panels and Hail Damage
Solar panels are designed to be durable. Manufacturers often test them for various weather conditions, including hail. In fact, most high-quality solar panels can withstand hailstones as large as one inch falling at high speeds (SEIA). But let’s face it: Mother Nature can be unpredictable. Severe hailstorms can bring larger hailstones that might crack or shatter your solar panels. This damage can reduce the efficiency of your system or even render it useless.
A few years ago, I had my first experience with a hailstorm in Texas. My solar panels were fairly new, and I was nervous that the storm might destroy them. Thankfully, they survived with just minor scratches. But that moment got me thinking – would my insurance cover this if the panels had been damaged?
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Solar Panels Hail Damage?
If you’re wondering whether your solar panels are covered by your homeowner’s insurance, the answer is: most of the time, yes. Solar panels attached to your home are typically considered part of the home structure. As long as your policy covers damage to the home due to weather events like hail, your solar panels should also be covered. However, it’s important to double-check your specific policy and verify that hail damage is included. Some policies may have exclusions or may require you to purchase additional coverage.
For example, when I called my insurance company, they reassured me that my solar panels were protected under the same terms as my roof. However, I discovered that I had a high deductible for weather-related damage, so I had to adjust my coverage to better suit my needs.
Why You Shouldn’t Rely Solely on Insurance
Although most insurance plans cover solar panels, the fine print is crucial. In some cases, hail damage might fall under “cosmetic damage” rather than functional damage, meaning the insurance won’t pay unless the panels stop working. It’s also possible that your insurance may not cover panels that are installed separately from the house, such as ground-mounted systems.
That’s why I recommend double-checking your policy. You may also want to look into supplemental insurance or warranties that specifically protect against hail or other weather-related damages.
The Importance of Solar Panel Warranties
Apart from insurance, solar panel warranties play a critical role in protecting your investment. Most reputable solar panel manufacturers offer two types of warranties:
- Product Warranty: Covers manufacturing defects and material failures, typically lasting 10 to 25 years.
- Performance Warranty: Guarantees that the panels will produce a certain percentage of their original capacity over time, often around 80% over 25 years (NREL).
However, warranties might not cover all weather-related damage. It’s crucial to understand what your manufacturer offers and how this warranty complements your insurance. Some companies even offer specific weather-related warranties for areas prone to hailstorms.
Steps to Take After Solar Panel Hail Damage
If your solar panels get damaged during a hailstorm, don’t panic. Here’s a simple guide to follow:
- Inspect the Damage: After the storm has passed, take a close look at your solar panels. Look for visible cracks, chips, or shattered glass.
- Document Everything: Take pictures of the damage from multiple angles. This will help with insurance claims or warranty requests.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the damage immediately to begin the claims process. Make sure to ask if hail damage is fully covered and what your deductible might be.
- Check with Your Installer: If your solar panels are under warranty, reach out to the installer to see if they can replace or repair the panels.
How to Prevent Solar Panel Hail Damage
While insurance and warranties can help, prevention is always better than dealing with the aftermath of damage. Here are some practical steps to protect your solar panels from hail damage:
- Use High-Quality Panels: Choose panels tested for durability, specifically for weather events like hail. Some panels are rated to withstand hailstones up to 1.75 inches in diameter (energy.gov).
- Regular Maintenance: Keep your solar panels clean and check them for any signs of wear. This ensures they remain in top condition and can handle tough weather.
- Install a Protective Cover: If you live in a region prone to severe hail, consider adding a protective mesh cover or using retractable shields that can be deployed during a hailstorm.
Personal Experience: Hailstorm Protection Tips
Living in Texas, hailstorms are almost a yearly occurrence. After that first scare with my solar panels, I made some changes to protect my system better. First, I upgraded to higher-quality solar panels that had a higher hail rating. I also purchased a protective mesh cover, which my installer recommended, and added extra hail-specific insurance to my policy. While these precautions cost a little upfront, they give me peace of mind, knowing that my panels are well-protected.
The Cost of Replacing Hail-Damaged Solar Panels
If your solar panels are severely damaged by hail, they might need replacing. On average, replacing a single panel can cost between $200 and $400. If you have several panels that are damaged, the costs can add up quickly. This is why having comprehensive insurance and a solid warranty is critical.
Solar Panels Hail Damage Insurance: Is It Worth It?
Now that we’ve covered the potential risks and costs, the question is: Is hail damage insurance worth it?
In short, yes. Solar panels are a big investment, and while most are built to withstand tough weather, hailstorms can be unpredictable. Insurance offers peace of mind knowing that even if the worst happens, you won’t be stuck with expensive repair or replacement bills. But remember, always read the fine print, adjust your coverage if necessary, and consider investing in additional protective measures.
FAQs on Solar Panels and Hail Damage
1. Does homeowners insurance cover solar panels damaged by hail?
Yes, in most cases, solar panels attached to your home are covered under homeowners insurance. However, verify that hail damage is included in your policy.
2. What type of solar panels withstand hail?
High-quality solar panels tested for durability, such as those rated to handle hailstones of 1 inch or more, offer better protection.
3. How do I know if my solar panels are damaged after a hailstorm?
Look for visible cracks, chips, or shattered glass. Contact a professional for an in-depth inspection.
4. Can I add hail-specific insurance to my policy?
Yes, you can. Talk to your insurance provider to see if hail-specific coverage is available for your solar panels.
5. What should I do if my solar panels are damaged by hail?
Take pictures of the damage, report it to your insurance company, and contact your installer if the panels are under warranty.
6. How often should I check my solar panels for damage?
Regular inspections every 6 months and after any severe weather event are recommended.
7. Can I prevent hail damage to my solar panels?
You can reduce the risk by using high-quality panels, adding protective covers, and maintaining your system regularly.
8. How much does it cost to replace hail-damaged solar panels?
Replacing a solar panel can cost between $200 and $400, depending on the size and type of the panel.
9. Do solar panel warranties cover hail damage?
Some warranties may cover hail damage, but it varies by manufacturer. Always check your warranty’s specifics.