Last Updated on October 21, 2026 by Syed Sarim Naqvi
Roof-mounted solar panels you own are usually covered under the dwelling part of a standard homeowners policy, but ground-mounted arrays fall under the lower-limit “other structures” cover, leased panels are insured by the solar company, and some policies exclude hail damage to panels. Adding solar often raises your premium by roughly $120 to $300 a year, mostly because your dwelling limit should go up.
Key Takeaways
- Owned rooftop panels are generally covered under dwelling (Coverage A) if the damage comes from a covered peril and your limit is high enough
- Ground-mounted arrays are usually under Coverage B (other structures), often capped at 10% of the dwelling limit
- Typical premium increase is cited at $10 to $25 a month ($120 to $300 a year), though one source says 10% to 20% on the home policy for roof panels
- A separate standalone policy for ground-mounted systems is quoted at $200 to $450 a year in an older guide
- Hail and wind may be excluded or subject to a separate, larger deductible, so read the wording
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Solar Panels?
Often yes, if they are attached to your home. Progressive explains that roof-mounted panels may be covered under dwelling coverage for certain covered perils, though wind and hail may not be covered depending on the policy. GEICO adds that this typically includes fire, hail, lightning, theft and vandalism, but you should confirm your policy covers the full replacement cost of the system.
What About Ground-Mounted and Leased Systems?
EnergyScout says ground-mounted arrays are usually classified under Coverage B, which on a typical HO-3 is capped at 10% of the dwelling limit and may not be enough for a large array. For leased systems and power purchase agreements (PPAs), the solar company owns the equipment, so your policy generally will not cover the panels but will cover roof damage they cause, according to the same guide and GEICO.
| System Type | Typically Covered Under | Watch Out For |
|---|---|---|
| Owned, roof-mounted | Dwelling (Coverage A) | Hail and wind exclusions; limit may need raising |
| Owned, ground-mounted | Other structures (Coverage B) | 10% cap; may need a rider |
| Leased or PPA | The solar company’s insurance | Roof damage caused by panels is yours to cover |
| Installer damage | The installer’s liability insurance | Improper installation is often excluded from your policy |
How Much Does Solar Add to Your Insurance Cost?
Nuwatt Energy says most homeowners see an increase of $10 to $25 a month ($120 to $300 a year) depending on system size, location and insurer. A1 SolarStore says roof panels may add about 10% to 20% to the home insurance bill, and that a ground-mounted standalone policy typically costs $200 to $450 a year, but that guide is older, so verify. EnergyScout notes that raising Coverage A from $400,000 to $425,000 typically adds $40 to $120 a year, which it frames as the cost of being properly insured and not a solar penalty. Solar Energy World says the increase can be as little as $15 a month for some owners.
What About Hail, Wind and Other Exclusions?
Progressive says homeowners policies may exclude improper installation, wear and tear and, in some cases, wind and hail. EnergyScout warns that in hail-prone states a separate wind or hail deductible can be the real gotcha. Solar Energy World notes some policies exclude hail for solar panels even when hail cover applies to the rest of the home, and suggests a rider may be needed in storm-prone regions.
Do You Need to Tell Your Insurer?
Yes. Angi says even if you think your existing policy covers the panels, installing solar is a significant change, so you should discuss it with your insurer to make sure limits and coverage are adequate. It cites about $27,000 for a professional installation, and some oversized systems may need their own add-on.
How Does This Relate to Other Home Cover?
Solar sits alongside the perils covered in Hurricane and Wind/Hail Deductibles Explained and High-Value Home Insurance Explained. For other add-ons, see Water and Sewer Backup Insurance Explained.
FAQ
Does homeowners insurance cover solar panels?
Usually yes for owned roof-mounted panels under dwelling cover, subject to covered perils and limits.
Do I need a separate solar policy?
Most owners of standard rooftop systems do not, but ground-mounted or oversized systems may need a rider or standalone policy.
Does solar raise my premium?
Often modestly, about $120 to $300 a year in one estimate, mainly because you raise your dwelling limit.
Are leased panels covered by my policy?
Generally no. The leasing company insures the equipment, but your policy covers roof damage they cause.
Is hail damage to panels covered?
It depends. Some policies cover it, while others exclude it or apply a higher wind or hail deductible.
Is theft of panels covered?
Most policies cover theft, but check that your limit equals the full replacement cost of the system.
Glossary
- Coverage A: dwelling cover for the home’s structure.
- Coverage B: other structures cover, often 10% of the dwelling limit.
- PPA: power purchase agreement, where a company owns the panels.
- Rider: an add-on endorsement raising or adding cover.
Sources
- Progressive: Does Home Insurance Cover Solar Panels? (dwelling cover, exclusions)
- GEICO: Does Home Insurance Cover Solar Panels? (rooftop vs. ground, leased systems)
- EnergyScout: Solar Panels and Homeowners Insurance, 2026 Coverage Guide (Coverage B cap, hail deductibles, cost of higher limits)
- Nuwatt Energy: Solar Panels and Homeowners Insurance, 2026 Guide (premium increase range)
- Solar Energy World: How Solar Affects Your Homeowners Insurance Premium (hail exclusions, rider advice)
- A1 SolarStore: Solar Panel Insurance (older cost figures)
- Angi: Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Solar Panels? (notify your insurer, installation cost)
Published October 2026. Policy terms and prices vary by insurer and state; confirm with your insurer and refresh this article periodically.
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