Installing solar panels is a valuable investment in your property. But what happens if severe weather strikes or an unforeseen accident damages your panels? Are rooftop solar systems covered by building insurance in Australia?
Are Solar Panels Covered Under Building Insurance?
Generally, yes. In Australia, rooftop solar panels and inverters are classified as permanent fixtures of the building, meaning they are typically covered under standard building insurance policies against events such as fire, lightning, storms, hail, and vandalism.
However, you must notify your insurer once your solar installation is complete. Because a solar system increases your home's total replacement value, failing to update your sum insured could leave you underinsured in the event of a total property loss.
Warranty vs Insurance: What is the Difference?
| Cover Type | What It Covers | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer Warranty | Defects in materials, internal electrical degradation, premature failure | Panel micro-cracking or inverter mainboard failure within 10 years |
| Workmanship Warranty | Installation defects, roof mounting leakage, electrical wiring errors | Water ingress around roof penetrations installed by the technician |
| Home Building Insurance | Sudden, accidental external damage from climate, disasters, or vandalism | Heavy hail storm shattering glass or a fallen tree branch cracking panels |
Installer Public Liability Insurance
Before any technician steps onto your roof, ensure they hold comprehensive Public Liability Insurance (at Billabong Solar, all our NETCC Approved licensed A-Grade electricians are fully insured). This protects your premises against accidental property damage during the installation phase.
Billabong Solar Admin
NETCC Approved SpecialistSenior Solar Energy Engineer • Billabong Solar Victoria
The Billabong Solar engineering and technical team brings over a decade of hands-on experience designing and commissioning NETCC approved residential and commercial solar arrays and battery storage solutions across Melbourne and regional Victoria.
