Solar panels don’t automatically void your roof warranty, but installation mistakes, drilling into the roof, and ignoring best practices can create coverage gaps. Some panels come with their own product, performance, and workmanship warranties, which may cover defects, energy output, and poor workmanship, but it’s not a guarantee. Read your roof and panel warranties carefully before any work starts so you understand what’s covered and keep a log of all work.
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Solar panels are a great investment that can lower your utility bills and may pay for themselves over time by protecting your roof from harm. They’re an eco-friendly energy source that allows you to do your part in protecting our planet for future generations by lowering your fossil fuel consumption.
But there’s a catch: they may also void your warranty if they aren’t installed correctly. It’s essential to check the terms and conditions of your warranty before any work starts, but it can help to understand what you’re looking for in the first place.
Below, you’ll learn about roof and solar panel warranties and what they typically cover. We’ll also tell you which installation mistakes lead to problems the most often and what to do if you’re left out in the cold.
There are two types of roofing warranties: materials and workmanship. In most cases, your roof will be warranted for both.
In most cases, solar panels will not void your roof warranty as long as your installer follows the roofing manufacturer’s instructions. The main exception is if they (or you) drill holes in the roof. Sometimes, this can void the materials section of your warranty because the company still sees it as intentional damage.
Read More: How to File a Roof Leak Insurance Claim
Solar panels typically come with three types of warranties: a product warranty, a power or performance warranty, and a workmanship guarantee. All three cover specific situations.
This covers any defects in the solar panels or the other materials used in your system. Inverters are usually covered for 10-12 years, while the panels themselves are covered for a much longer period. Inverters just don’t last as long as panels.
This covers your panels’ energy production. The power or performance warranty typically lasts 10 years and guarantees 90% of the predicted energy output. If they underperform significantly, you may be able to return them or have them replaced.
This covers the quality of the installation itself. If your installers do a poor job that damages your roof or some other area of your home, the workmanship guarantee should cover the repairs. Some policies will contain exceptions, so it’s best to read the fine print.
Read More: 8 Important Questions to Ask Every Roofer Before You Hire Them
Generally speaking, anything that damages your roof in any way other than minor scuffs or surface damage can potentially void the warranty. With solar panels, problems are typically related to one or more of the situations spelled out in this helpful chart.
If you’re noticing a trend, you’re on the right track! The best way to protect both your roofing warranty and your solar warranties is to make sure that both your roofer and solar installer are looped in on any work.
| Situation | Warranty Status | Why It Matters | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bad racking install | ❌ Voided | Faulty installation isn’t covered by the roofing company | Hire a reputable installer and make sure they follow the manufacturer’s instructions |
| Flashing removed, added, or changed | ❌ Modified elements are no longer covered | Roofing warranty only applies to materials and work done by the roofer | Ask your roofer to review their work or take part in the installation. |
| Holes drilled into the roof | ❌ Likely voided | Penetrations increase your risk for leaks, especially if they aren’t properly sealed | Ask your roofer to review their work or take part in the installation. |
| No roofer input or oversight | ❌ Coverage may be affected | Roofer may not honor the warranty if anything goes wrong | Ask your roofer to review or take part in the installation. |
| Panels removed for roof updates | ⚠️ May void solar warranty | Roofers aren’t responsible for solar work or damage during reinstallation | Contact the manufacturer for your panels or installer before roofing work |
Your roof protects one of your biggest investments, so it’s natural to wonder how a Roof Maxx treatment might affect your warranties. We’ve treated more than 100 million square feet of roofs without a single homeowner complaining that their roof warranty claim was denied because of Roof Maxx.
In terms of solar warranties, it’s best to have Roof Maxx sprayed on before you install your panels. The treatment won’t usually violate the warranty, anyway, it’s just easier to apply without obstructions.
Having a treatment actually works in your favor by:
You get all the benefits of our eco-friendly, soy-based roof rejuvenation solution without needing to jeopardize your coverage in the process. The fact that a single treatment can extend the life of your roof by up to 5 years (or 15 with regular reapplications) makes it a valuable option for your home.
Connect with a dealer in your area now for a free quote!
If you do run into the unfortunate situation of a solar install voiding your roof warranty in some way, stay calm. Follow these steps to take action and explore your options.
Confirm what was voided and why. Make copies of each document so you have them on hand or can provide them to your installer, if necessary.
Take clear photos and notes. Keep invoices, inspection reports, and any communication that shows when and how the issue started.
Ask your roofing company for a short written note linking the damage to the solar installation. This gives you backup when approaching the installer.
Share your documentation and the roofer’s statement. Ask them to honor their workmanship warranty and explain how they’ll address the issue. If they balk, ask them to put it in writing.
If possible, have your solar installer and roofer either meet or communicate directly. Make sure responsibilities are clearly defined and the repair plan is documented.
If the installer won’t cooperate, escalate through their company, the panel or racking manufacturer, or your state licensing board. If all else fails, it may be time to consult a lawyer.
The bottom line is that the installer is responsible for fixing the damage if they caused it. Most professionals know mistakes can happen, even with years of experience, which is exactly why workmanship warranties exist. If something goes wrong, that policy is there to protect you.
Plan to check your roof at least once a year for signs of wear or damage. If anything looks off, reach out to your roofer or solar installer depending on what you find. Keep a checklist or log of any work on hand so you know what’s been done and can prove you didn’t put off regular maintenance needs.
If your asphalt shingle roof is over 10 years old and you’re thinking about putting solar panels in, don’t forget to schedule a Roof Maxx treatment first. Our eco-friendly, soy-based roof rejuvenation solution can help extend the life of your roof so you’re less likely to need to remove them to have your roof replaced.
Call (855) ROOFMAXX to reach a dealer in your area now or contact us below!
With our five-year, transferable warranty, you’ll enjoy the peace of mind that your roof and entire home are protected.
