So, you’ve made the leap into renewable energy and installed solar panels on your home or business—great move! But here’s the million-dollar question: what happens if those shiny panels get damaged? Whether it’s a rogue hailstorm, a fallen tree branch, or even a fire, solar panels are just as vulnerable to damage as any other part of your property. That’s where insurance comes in.
First things first—most standard homeowners insurance policies do cover solar panel damage. But (and it’s a big but), the extent of that coverage can vary wildly depending on your provider, your policy, and how your solar panels are installed. Are they roof-mounted or ground-mounted? Owned or leased? These details matter.
Let’s break it down. If your solar panels are permanently attached to your roof, they’re typically considered part of your home’s structure. That means they’re usually covered under your dwelling coverage. But if they’re ground-mounted or installed on a detached structure like a shed, they might fall under “other structures” coverage, which often has a lower limit.
And what about leased panels? If you’re leasing your solar panels, the leasing company usually holds the insurance responsibility. However, you should still double-check your lease agreement and talk to your insurer to make sure there are no gaps in coverage.
Need help navigating the fine print? That’s where LMR Public Adjusters come in. As South Florida’s premier public adjusters, they specialize in advocating for property owners to maximize insurance claims. Their dedicated team can help you understand your policy and ensure you’re fully protected.
For more insights on how property insurance works, check out our FAQ page or dive into our detailed guide on property claims.
Solar panels are built to be tough, but they’re not invincible. Understanding what can go wrong helps you prepare—and more importantly, helps you know what to look for when filing an insurance claim. So, what are the usual suspects when it comes to solar panel damage?
1. Weather Events: South Florida is no stranger to wild weather. From hurricanes and tropical storms to hail and lightning, Mother Nature can wreak havoc on your solar setup. Wind damage is especially common, and if your panels aren’t securely mounted, they could be ripped right off your roof. Learn more about wind damage claims and how to protect your investment.
2. Water Damage: Water might not seem like a big threat to solar panels, but it can be. Poor installation or cracked panels can allow water to seep in, damaging the internal components. This is especially problematic during Florida’s rainy season. If you suspect water damage, don’t wait—check out our water damage services for help.
3. Fire and Electrical Issues: Faulty wiring, power surges, or even nearby wildfires can cause serious damage to your solar panels. While rare, these incidents can be devastating. Make sure your insurance policy includes fire coverage, and if you’ve experienced a fire, visit our home damage page for guidance.
4. Physical Impact: Think falling tree branches, debris from a storm, or even a misfired baseball. Physical impact is a common cause of solar panel damage, and it’s usually covered under most insurance policies.
Remember, documenting the damage is key. Take photos, keep receipts, and call in the pros. LMR Public Adjusters can help you assess the damage and file a claim that gets results.
Filing an insurance claim can feel like navigating a maze blindfolded. But don’t worry—we’re here to walk you through it step by step. If your solar panels are damaged, here’s what you need to do:
Step 1: Document Everything
Start by taking clear, high-resolution photos of the damage from multiple angles. If you have “before” photos, even better. Keep any receipts for repairs or inspections, and jot down the date and time the damage occurred.
Step 2: Contact Your Insurance Company
Call your insurer as soon as possible. The sooner you report the damage, the better. Be prepared to provide details about the incident and the extent of the damage.
Step 3: Schedule an Inspection
Your insurance company will likely send an adjuster to inspect the damage. But here’s the catch: their adjuster works for them—not for you. That’s why it’s smart to have your own advocate. LMR Public Adjusters can represent your interests and ensure you get a fair assessment.
Step 4: Review the Settlement Offer
Once the inspection is complete, your insurer will make a settlement offer. Don’t accept it blindly. Compare it with your own estimates and consult with a public adjuster if needed.
Step 5: Repair or Replace
Once you’ve agreed on a settlement, you can move forward with repairs or replacement. Make sure to hire a licensed contractor and keep all documentation for future reference.
Need help with the process? Visit our property claims page or check out our blog for more tips on navigating insurance claims.
While you can’t control the weather, there are plenty of proactive steps you can take to protect your solar panels from damage. Think of it like putting a helmet on your investment—it just makes sense.
1. Regular Maintenance: Just like your car needs oil changes, your solar panels need regular check-ups. Schedule annual inspections to catch issues early. Look for cracks, loose wiring, or signs of corrosion.
2. Trim Nearby Trees: Overhanging branches are a recipe for disaster. A strong wind can send them crashing onto your panels. Keep trees trimmed and clear of your solar array.
3. Secure Mounting: Make sure your panels are securely mounted, especially if you live in a hurricane-prone area like South Florida. Reinforced mounting systems can help your panels withstand high winds.
4. Install Surge Protectors: Electrical surges can fry your solar system. Installing surge protectors can help safeguard your investment from lightning strikes and power fluctuations.
5. Monitor Performance: Many solar systems come with monitoring software. Use it! A sudden drop in performance could indicate damage or malfunction.
Want to learn more about protecting your property? Visit our pages on mold damage and plumbing issues—because prevention is always better than cure.
Let’s be real—insurance companies aren’t exactly known for handing out generous settlements. Their goal is to minimize payouts, and that can leave you short-changed. That’s where a public adjuster comes in.
What is a Public Adjuster?
A public adjuster is a licensed professional who works on your behalf—not the insurance company’s. They assess the damage, file the claim, negotiate with the insurer, and fight to get you the maximum payout.
Why Choose LMR Public Adjusters?
At LMR Public Adjusters, we’re not just adjusters—we’re advocates. Based in South Florida, we specialize in helping property owners like you navigate the complex world of insurance claims. Our personalized, dedicated team is committed to maximizing your claim and getting you back on track.
We’ve helped clients in Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pembroke Pines, and beyond. Check out our Google reviews to see what our satisfied clients have to say.
Still not sure if you need a public adjuster? Visit our FAQ page or give us a call. We’re here to help.
Solar panels are a smart investment, but like any part of your property, they’re vulnerable to damage. Understanding your insurance coverage, knowing how to file a claim, and taking steps to prevent damage can save you a lot of headaches down the road. And when things go wrong, having a trusted advocate like LMR Public Adjusters in your corner can make all the difference.
Whether you’re dealing with storm damage, water issues, or just want to make sure you’re covered, we’ve got your back. Don’t leave your solar investment to chance—get the support you need and the payout you deserve.
Most homeowners insurance policies cover damage from events like storms, hail, fire, and falling objects. However, coverage can vary depending on how your panels are installed and whether they’re owned or leased.
Usually, no. If your panels are permanently attached to your home, they’re typically covered under your existing homeowners policy. But it’s always a good idea to double-check with your insurer.
Document the damage with photos, contact your insurance company, and consider hiring a public adjuster like LMR Public Adjusters to help you file a strong claim and negotiate a fair settlement.
If your panels are leased, the leasing company usually handles the insurance. However, you should still report the damage and review your lease agreement to understand your responsibilities.
LMR Public Adjusters advocate for you—not the insurance company. They assess the damage, file the claim, and negotiate on your behalf to ensure you get the maximum payout possible.
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