A homeowner says a solar installer is demanding $2,300 up front just to investigate a roof leak and was warned that the remaining 10 years of warranty coverage could disappear if anyone else touches the system.

The installer seems to charge prices three times higher than anyone else and uses the warranty as a lock-in device, so the homeowner went online to ask, "Is it legal?"

Here's what to know

In a thread on r/solar on Reddit, the homeowner said they are 10 years into a 20-year installer warranty. They described leaks that have recurred since the system was first installed and said the company previously asked for a $600 check to inspect a leaking mounting bracket, then returned the money.

The current dispute involves another leak that the poster said they have identified themselves. According to the thread, the installer wants to remove about six panels to reach the area. "If it is their fault it's free," the original poster wrote. "They have to come out and takeoff about six panels to get to where I know the leak is."

Stories like this remind us that a good installer matters as much as the hardware. Readers shopping for systems can use EasyHome to see pricing and savings from properly vetted installers in their area.

The homeowner also said the warranty limits outside help while locking them into high repair deposits. "Can't have anybody else touch the solar panels or I lose the 10 years that's left on my Warranty." 

One commenter, offering advice, said, "A roofer inspecting the roof wouldn't need to touch anything to see the damage, as long as you have attic access."

More background

The poster said they paid cash upfront for the system and that the leaks have happened multiple times. "To initial leaks at installation 10 years ago, there's been three or four ever since," the original poster wrote.

One commenter said solar mounts "aren't supposed to leak" and that those repairs are "usually covered under the installer's 'workmanship' warranty," while another argued the roof or sealant could also be failing for reasons the installer disputes.

What can be done?

Much of the advice in the thread focused on documenting the cause first. One commenter suggested paying a roofer "to give you a document proving it is their fault," while another said an attic inspection might identify damage without anyone touching the array and risking the remaining 10 years of warranty coverage.

A second commenter pushed for a tougher response, writing, "If there's a warranty they just have to fix it. You don't have to give them any money at all. Send a demand letter, and get a lawyer." 

Others said the homeowner should confirm why a warranty call needs a $2,300 deposit. They suggested asking: Is it tied to workmanship, roof repair, or simply the labor of pulling six panels? Those are important questions to answer.

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In the end, one commenter summed up the issue this way: "Whether it's legal or not depends entirely on the terms of the contract and the warranty that you have with them."

Where can I learn more?

These stories cover similar problems with rooftop solar, roof repairs, and surprise costs. 

• In Texas, one homeowner said solar panels left his roof leaking for months.

• Homeowners pushed back after a roofer claimed solar panels damage roofs by default.

• A frustrated homeowner was urged to fight back after installers left footprints on 12 panels.

• In Pennsylvania, a resident questioned who actually owns the panels after a sales pitch.

• One solar owner called it robbery after a utility imposed ridiculous charges despite solar.

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