A homeowner sought advice after their homeowners association made them hold off on solar installation.
The frustrated Redditor posted in a legal subreddit, asking if they could fight the HOA based on North Carolina's solar panel laws concerning the regulation of solar panels. In the post, the homeowner explained that their HOA may not allow panels on the front side that faces the public road.
They stated, "They're saying that there isn't anything in the covenants about solar, and would need a board meeting to vote on panel placement/solar, in order to amend the covenants."
The OP may be able to install the front panels if the HOA approves, "But if I don't want any delay, I should move the panels to the back."
They're concerned that placing all the panels on the back will reduce the system's efficiency. Based on North Carolina solar panel laws, they asked, "Can I claim that moving the panels would affect reasonable use of the system?"
HOAs frequently block homeowners from making eco-friendly upgrades, especially solar panels. This prevents people from reducing their utility bills and helping create a cooler, cleaner future.
Stay hydrated and refreshed this holiday season — without any sugar or harmful additives Nuun’s zero-sugar hydration tablets are a perfect, guilt-free way to enhance your water throughout the day. You’ll get five essential electrolytes for everyday hydration — with zero grams of sugar. Plus, Nuun tablets are certified vegan and gluten-free, and they’re the perfect size to keep in your car, purse, or anywhere you'll want a healthy, restorative drink. Learn more → |
With resources like EnergySage, which helps you find and compare local solar installation quotes from vetted contractors, solar panels are more accessible than ever. Homeowners can save as much as $10,000 on installation and bring energy bills as low as $0 with EnergySage's free tools.
If the installation costs are a major obstacle, homeowners can also use programs like Palmetto's LightReach, a solar leasing program that requires no money down.
Not only do solar panels reduce energy bills, but they can also make money-saving appliances, like heat pumps, even more cost-efficient. Find the perfect affordable heat pump for your own using Mitsubishi's resources.
Commenters tried to help the OP.
TCD Picks » Upway Spotlight
💡Upway makes it easy to find discounts of up to 60% on premium e-bike brands
|
Which of these factors is the biggest obstacle preventing you from getting solar panels? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. |
The upfront cost 💰 One person said, "Certain states (like Virginia) have state laws that might give you the 'right' to have solar no matter what the HOA says."
Another person suggested, "Being that there isn't anything in the guidelines about placement and can't force you to install them in an unusable place, I would go ahead and install them."
Whether they hold off on installation or not, this homeowner has the opportunity to influence the HOA's rules and possibly pave the way for more HOA residents to reap the benefits of solar panels.
💰Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices — and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD's exclusive Rewards Club.
Cool Picks
