Do you have solar panels? Here's what you need to know!
Solar panels are very popular. Many people have recently been looking for ways to keep their energy bills under control. Generating your own renewable energy is a good way to do this. Moreover, it contributes to the energy transition.
No VAT
The government encourages this. This is because you do not have to pay VAT on the solar panels installed on or near your home. This rule has been in effect since January 2023. The VAT exemption applies only to solar panels that are on the roof. Integrated solar panels, which act as roofing, are not part of this rule.
There are several other schemes for taking sustainability measures, such as the energy savings loan. You can borrow money for sustainable investments on favorable terms. You can find more information on the central government website.
Extreme weather conditions
Want to have solar panels installed? Then think about insurance too! Solar panels are on your roof for an average of 25 years. In that time something can happen. For example, damage to solar panels can be caused by extreme weather conditions such as heat waves, heavy snow showers or storms.
The definition of severe weather, and therefore coverage for solar panel damage due to weather, can vary from one insurer to another. It is important to look into this carefully in advance.
Fire and theft
"It is also important to be properly insured against fire or theft. In any case, it is important to always have solar panels installed by a licensed company and a technician with the proper certifications.
With huge staff shortages and longer delivery times, solar panels can take longer to install. Unfortunately, the number of legal disputes over the quality and delivery time of solar panels is increasing.
Our advice is to deal only with certified mechanics despite the longer waiting time. That way the chances of short circuits and fire are the least. Moreover, insurance will only cover damage to solar panels if they have been installed for a certified company. The exact rules and coverage may vary from one insurer to another."
Jolanda van Ool - Berveling
Insurance advisor at Alpina Roerdalen
Theft or contents
Do you own your own home? Then solar panels are often covered on your homeowners insurance. However, this only applies to bolt-on solar panels. If the solar panels are bolted to the roof, then they are not always covered under the buildings insurance.
Your solar panels may also be covered on contents insurance. This is because not all insurers view solar panels as property. Do you have a rental property? Then it is useful to look into insuring the solar panels on the contents insurance.
Personal advice
Have you purchased or plan to purchase solar panels? Let us know. We will advise you on the insurance of your solar panels and check whether the insured amount is high enough. This way you can be sure that you are always properly insured.
Have questions?
