Beware dodgy rooftop solar in South Africa – what to look out for

Insurance group Santam has warned South Africans to beware of dodgy solar power system installers.

Marius Steyn, the personal lines underwriting manager at Santam, said that when looking for a reputable installer, one must look into credentials such as references of previous work as well as how long the business has been in operation.

He said that a reputable installer should also provide a comprehensive quote detailing the scope of work, components that will be used in the installation as well as, importantly, after-sales services, warranties and guarantees.

“They should also advise you of any potential issues that may compromise the installation and functioning of the solar power system prior to commencing the installation,” Steyn said.

“If your building is damaged during the installation process, this should be covered by the installer under their Contractors All Risk Insurance policy. Pre-installation inspection is crucial to ascertain that the building’s roof structure and rafters are not compromised, rotten or damaged so that the solar panel installation can still be carried out.”

“It’s essential to obtain a certificate of compliance (CoC) when installing solar power generating systems as this is required by law and for the registration of the solar power generating system with the relevant municipality.”

Steyn said that this is something that any reputable installer will automatically provide.

Rooftop solar is regarded as a valuable asset in a home, with the majority setting back people thousands of rand.

Solar installation influences the value of a property – increasing the need for a more accommodative insurance sum.

To best protect oneself in terms of insurance, Steyn added that people who have upgraded their properties with a solar system to contact their insurer and increase their building insurance sum insured to cover the cost of the solar assets installed to avoid being underinsured in the event of a claim.

“If the insured value of the building is not equal to the current replacement value, underinsurance (principle of average) could be applicable in the event of a claim, and the claim will not be paid in full,” said Steyn.

New electrical systems also run the risk of fire, power surges or damage, making it essential for homeowners to protect against loss through building insurance.

Building insurance will also provide cover if your property is maliciously damaged or damaged due to burglary or theft.

Concerns over insurance relating to solar follow a major push toward alternative power supplies, with the government introducing new incentives for the uptake of solar.

As outlined by the minister of finance, from 1 March, individuals who install rooftop solar panels will be able to claim a rebate of 25% of the cost of the panels, up to a maximum of R15,000.

This, paired with increasingly severe and frequent power outages across the nation, has driven many South Africans to shift either fully or partially off-grid.

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