This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship.
Many homeowners are confused about the different types of warranties that come with their solar panel systems.
What Is a Manufacturer’s Warranty?
One of the most important is the manufacturer’s warranty. This type of warranty covers the equipment itself—including the solar panels, inverters, microinverters, and any other system components.
If covered equipment fails or malfunctions during the warranty period (25-years for example), the manufacturer’s warranty may cover repair or replacement of the faulty component, subject to the warranty’s terms, exclusions, and limitations.
These warranties are generally intended to protect homeowners against certain product defects or performance issues during the applicable warranty period.
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Solar systems can also include multiple manufacturer warranties. For example, panels, inverters, batteries, and other components may have separate warranty terms, and a product warranty may differ from a performance warranty. Homeowners should review the warranty documents for each component rather than assuming the entire system has the same coverage period.”
What Is an Installation Warranty?
The installation warranty covers the installer’s workmanship and is separate from the equipment warranty. For example, if a company like Titan installed your system and offered a 25-year installation warranty, that warranty applies to how they installed the system—not to the equipment itself.
Installation warranties generally cover things like roof leaks, improper wiring, or failure to meet code requirements. If something goes wrong because the system due to poor installation, the installation warranty is what would obligate the company to come out and fix it.
What does a Workmanship Warranty include?
Depending on the terms of the warranty or service agreement, an installer may charge a service fee to inspect the system and determine whether the problem is related to workmanship. Homeowners should also understand that coverage for a replacement part under a manufacturer’s warranty does not necessarily mean the labor required to replace that part is covered. Labor coverage depends on the applicable warranty and contract terms.
A common misconception is that a workmanship warranty covers all future labor associated with the solar system. In many cases, workmanship warranties are limited to problems caused by the original installation. Coverage requirements, notice deadlines, exclusions, and claim procedures vary, so homeowners should review the specific terms of their warranty and contract.
Why This Distinction Matters
Understanding the difference between these two types of warranties is critical. You’ll need to understand this if your solar system is not performing as expected or if damage occurs.
If the issue involves a failed panel, inverter, or other component, the manufacturer’s warranty may apply. If the problem resulted from improper installation or poor workmanship, the installer’s warranty may apply. Coverage will depend on the specific warranties, contracts, exclusions, and circumstances involved.
Knowing which warranty applies helps you determine who to contact for support and what kind of remedies you can expect.
Still have questions about your solar panel warranties or need legal support? Contact Prevost Law Firm today for guidance and help with your case.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship.
