We often find customers who are hesitant to switch to solar power because they are unsure if their solar panels are covered by insurance or not. Their concerns are well justified as every Solar roof deals with a reasonably high DC Voltage and it is, therefore, a requisite to ensure protections are in place in case something goes wrong in the future. So let’s take a look at some of the important protections you can use while going for solar insurance services in Melbourne.
Get a Solar Insurance Policy
There are many solar insurance service providers in Australia today who offer many comprehensive policies that cover your entire PV solar system according to your budget and requirements. Be sure to thoroughly study the policies before signing the documents, to ensure that you are being covered for all the relevant solar components. Most solar systems are installed on the rooftop but if due to space restrictions you decide to install the solar system on a detached car shed or building, please be sure to let the solar insurance company know to get an add- on or an additional policy. A solar insurance service provider might not consider the detached building as part of your home when it comes down to a claim.
But remember, this solar insurance policy is not a warranty. The real protection you have against a Solar System gone bust or a Solar System that caused damage to your property is a valid warranty from a solidly backed Solar installation company like Billabong Solar.
Get a Reputable Solar Installer
Most insurance policies will cover any damage to the Solar System such that you can replace your Solar System with another. But if a solar panel installation goes wrong and causes any damage to your property, your best bet is not with a solar insurance company – but with the Solar installation company itself. This is why it is important that you choose a reputable company for your solar installation – one that is known in the local market for the support they offer their customers as well as the number of commercial installations undertaken by them. Remember, the most reputable solar installation company is not always the most advertised!
Everyone knows that most companies come and go on the fly. Close to 30% of all solar panel installations in Victoria are covered by warranties by companies that have already shut shop and gone into liquidation. So if the roof starts to drip and your ceiling plaster is damaged, you will be out of pocket if your warranty is voided by a solar company that is no longer in business. On the other hand, if you go with reputed solar installers you can rest assured that they will fix up your leaking roof without you having to spend anything from your pocket, even if it’s 3 years after a Solar Install.
Check if your Solar Installation Company is Insured or Not
The Solar panel industry is unfortunately ridden with smooth-talking salesmen who convince you of their legitimacy and expertise in the whole solar installation process and then progress to subcontract the job to the cheapest solar installer in the market. This often means that they have not insured themselves. As someone who is about to make a big investment in solar, you must be aware that even experienced Solar installation companies may sometimes run into errors while executing a complex install – mistakes with huge financial consequences. It may be good work, but it won’t be God’s work. All the good solar installation companies are aware of this and which is why they have themselves insured – so even if something does go wrong, and there is damage to the property, it is their Public Liability Insurance that will cover the cost of the damage. So make it a point to ensure that your solar panel installer is not a subbie and has himself covered by a solar insurance policy.
