Most policies extend to cover panels with little or no premium increase. The risk is not telling them and finding out your claim isn't covered.
Do you need to tell your insurer about solar panels?
Yes — this is not optional. Solar panels are a permanent fixture that change the rebuild cost and material composition of your property. Not disclosing a material change to your home is grounds for an insurer to void your policy or decline a claim.
The good news: the vast majority of UK home insurers cover solar panels automatically or with a simple notification, often with no premium increase. Panels installed by an MCS-certified installer are particularly straightforward — insurers recognise the certification as a quality standard.
What to tell your insurer — and when
Notify your insurer before installation, not after. Tell them:
- You're having solar panels installed
- Approximate number of panels and total system value
- Whether you're adding battery storage (and the battery value)
- That the installation is by an MCS-certified and NICEIC-approved contractor
Most insurers will simply note the change and update your policy. Some may ask for an updated rebuild cost estimate — your installer can usually provide this.
What's typically covered — and what isn't
| Item | Typically covered? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Panels damaged by storm or fire | Usually yes | Covered under buildings insurance as a fixed structure |
| Panels stolen | Usually yes | May need to check contents vs. buildings policy |
| Battery storage unit | Usually yes | Confirm with insurer — some treat as separate high-value item |
| Loss of earnings from SEG | Rarely | Specialist policies exist; most standard policies don't cover this |
| Inverter failure | Not insurance | Covered by manufacturer warranty (10 years on Fox ESS) |
| Damage caused by panels to roof | Depends | Covered if caused by storm event; not if due to poor installation |
Panels and your mortgage lender
Some mortgage lenders require notification when making significant changes to a property. Check your mortgage terms — most residential lenders have no issue with solar panels and require only a note rather than approval. If you own a leasehold property, check your lease terms — some require freeholder consent for external installations.
Get a quote (includes MCS certification)
All Alliant installs are MCS-certified — the paperwork insurers want to see.
Why MCS certification matters for insurance
An MCS-certified installation provides documentation that the system was designed and installed to recognised standards. If you ever need to make a claim involving your panels, having MCS paperwork — including the installation certificate — makes the process considerably smoother. Insurers are less likely to query a professionally certified installation.
Keep your paperwork
Frequently asked questions
Will solar panels affect my ability to remortgage or sell?
Solar panels are generally viewed positively by mortgage lenders and buyers — they add to the EPC rating and reduce energy costs. The exception is spray foam insulation added to rafters, which some lenders flag. Standard panel installations on roof tiles cause no mortgage complications.
What happens if a panel is damaged during installation?
During installation, the installer's own public liability and goods-in-transit insurance covers any damage. Once the system is commissioned and signed off, it becomes your responsibility under your home insurance. We carry full public liability insurance and are HIES members, which provides additional consumer protection.
Do I need separate solar panel insurance?
For most homeowners, extending your existing buildings insurance is sufficient. Specialist solar insurance policies exist and may be worth considering if your system is high-value (£15,000+) or if you want specific cover for income loss from SEG. For typical residential systems, standard home insurance is usually adequate.
