Installing solar photovoltaic (PV) panels in schools and businesses can often make sense as an investment in sustainability and energy efficiency. However, to ensure safety and compliance, insurance companies often set specific risk management and solar maintenance requirements.
Whilst your site and installation will be unique, the following guidelines will go a long way to ensuring you meet the solar-related risk management demands of your insurer and keep your system performing at its best.
Safety first: preventing hazards before they happen
One of the key concerns for insurers is ensuring that solar installations do not pose a risk to people or property. Regular safety checks are essential to prevent structural failures, electrical faults, and fire hazards.
- Structural integrity is a priority, as roofs and mounting structures must be capable of supporting the added weight of solar panels. Over time, weathering and external factors can weaken structures, so periodic inspections are crucial. After storms or high winds, checking for signs of stress, movement, or damage can prevent costly failures.
- Electrical safety is another major consideration. Faulty wiring, degraded connections, or malfunctioning inverters can lead to electrical hazards. Ensuring that installations comply with electrical safety standards and undergo regular inspections reduces these risks.
- Fire prevention is also vital. While solar panels themselves are unlikely to catch fire, faults in associated wiring or inverters can create a fire risk. Insurers may require clear labelling of shut-off points and easy access for emergency responders. Keeping solar components well-maintained and free from dust, debris, and damage can help prevent overheating and electrical fires.
Regular solar maintenance: a key insurance requirement
Insurance providers typically require businesses and schools to implement both routine visual inspections and annual professional maintenance to keep their solar systems in safe working order.
Assigning a competent individual to carry out simple monthly visual inspections can help catch early signs of damage or wear. This includes checking for cracked or misaligned panels, clearing away dirt or debris, and making sure that no vegetation is casting shadows over the system. Any visible damage to inverters, wiring, or mounting structures should be noted and reported for further investigation.
In addition to routine checks, an annual professional inspection should be carried out by certified experts. This typically includes:
- Testing electrical systems to ensure that isolation switches, wiring, and connections meet safety standards.
- Checking inverters to confirm they are operating correctly and within safe parameters.
- Inspecting structural security to make sure mounting systems remain secure and free from corrosion.
- Using thermal imaging to detect potential hotspots that could lead to system failures if left unaddressed.
Compliance and insurance policy considerations
Maintaining compliance with insurance and regulatory requirements is essential for keeping coverage valid and avoiding unexpected liabilities. Insurers often require documentation to prove that regular inspections and maintenance have been performed. Keeping detailed records of all maintenance activities, repairs, and system performance ensures that you can provide evidence of due diligence in the event of an insurance claim or policy renewal.
Some insurance policies may also specify that installations must be carried out by certified professionals, such as those accredited under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) in the UK. Non-compliant installations may not be covered under standard policies.
The role of emergency preparedness
Solar PV systems should be factored into a business or school’s emergency response plan. This includes ensuring that staff understand how to shut down the system safely if necessary and that emergency responders are aware of key system components. Fire evacuation procedures should take into account the presence of solar panels, particularly if roof access may be required for firefighting.
Understanding insurance coverage for solar systems
If your organisation has a solar PV installation, it is important to review your insurance policy to understand what is and isn’t covered. Some key areas to check include:
- Damage coverage – Does your policy protect against risks such as storm damage, theft, or fire?
- Liability coverage – Does your policy include third-party liability in case a panel detaches and causes injury or property damage?
- Business interruption protection – If your solar system provides a significant portion of your energy needs, will your policy cover financial losses if the system fails?
Discussing these details with your insurer can help ensure you have the right level of protection.
Staff training and awareness around solar maintenance
Educating staff and other key personnel on the basics of solar system maintenance and emergency procedures can reduce risks and improve system longevity. Staff should know how to identify warning signs such as inverter faults, shading issues, or potential electrical hazards. Simple training sessions can help ensure that minor issues are spotted early before they become costly problems.
The impact of environmental factors
Environmental factors can affect both the performance and safety of solar installations. Regular checks should be carried out to ensure panels are free from dirt, bird droppings, or debris that could reduce efficiency. High winds, snow, and ice can also put strain on mounting structures, so it’s important to inspect these after severe weather events.
Another often-overlooked issue is pest control. Birds and small animals can nest around panels or chew on wiring, leading to potential fire risks or electrical failures. Preventative measures such as installing mesh barriers or conducting routine inspections can help avoid these issues.
Upgrading technology for improved efficiency and safety
Advancements in solar technology can improve system performance and reduce risks. Many modern systems now incorporate real-time monitoring tools that provide instant alerts for faults or efficiency drops. Adding optimisers or upgrading inverters can enhance energy generation and provide better fault detection. Insurance companies may look favourably on businesses and schools that invest in safer, smarter technology.
A well-maintained solar PV system provides long-term energy savings, but it also requires proactive management to ensure safety, compliance, and insurance coverage. Regular inspections, professional servicing, and staff training are key components of a strong risk management strategy. By following these best practices, businesses and schools can maximise the benefits of their solar investment while keeping staff, visitors, and property safe, and their insurers happy.
