How to Make Sure Your Florida Homeowners Insurance Covers Solar Panels?

To ensure that your Florida homeowners insurance covers solar panels, the following steps can be taken:

Notify your insurance company: first, you need to notify your homeowner’s insurance company that you have installed solar panels. This step is very important because if any damage related to the solar system occurs, you need to make sure that you are able to file an insurance claim.

Check Existing Insurance Coverage: The insurance company will assess whether your existing insurance policy already includes coverage for solar panels. If there is existing coverage, the insurer will inform you; if not, you may need to add a separate policy rider.

Understand insurance coverage details: You need to understand the specifics of your insurance coverage, including what events are covered (e.g., fire, hail, etc.) and whether the policy covers repairs or replacement.

Make sure the building structure is compliant: according to the State of Florida, roof-mounted solar panels must be able to withstand their loads and comply with the relevant codes. In addition, roof and wall penetrations should be sealed to keep water, rodents and insects out.

Provide the necessary documentation: If you are renting solar panels, you will need to provide a lease agreement and may need to list the lessor as an additional stakeholder, subject to insurance company approval.

Add the replacement value of the home: For solar panels attached to the home, their value needs to be added to the replacement value of the home. If the solar panels are independently installed, they are insured as part of Coverage B and can be increased by adding additional coverage with increased limits.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your Florida homeowners insurance policy will cover solar panels and provide the proper coverage if necessary.