What happens if there's damage to my solar roof tiles after a storm?

If your solar roof tiles are damaged after a storm, several important steps and considerations come into play to protect your home or business, maintain energy generation, and manage costs effectively.

Immediate Impact of Storm Damage on Solar Roof Tiles

Solar roof tiles are designed to be durable and weather-resistant. However, severe storms with high winds, hail, or flying debris can cause physical damage such as cracking, displacement, or even complete breakage. Damage can affect not only the tiles themselves but also their mounting and wiring, which could reduce or stop electricity generation and lead to potential water ingress and structural issues in your roof.

What You Should Do After Storm Damage

1. Safety First and Initial Inspection

• Do not attempt to climb on your roof immediately after a storm, as it may be unsafe.
• Visually inspect your roof from the ground using binoculars or take photos to document any obvious damage.
• Look for missing, cracked, or displaced solar tiles and signs of water leaks inside your property.

2. Contact Your Installer or a Certified Professional

• Get in touch with the company that installed your solar roof tiles or a roofing contractor experienced in solar installations.
• In the UK, installers accredited under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) are recommended for repairs to maintain warranties and ensure compliance.
• A professional will provide a detailed assessment of the damage, including potential impacts on the electrical system.

3. Insurance and Claims

• Check your home or business insurance policy to see if it includes storm damage coverage for solar roof tiles.
• Most UK home insurance policies cover damage caused by storms, but you need to confirm whether solar roof tiles are included or considered part of the roof structure.
• If covered, report the damage promptly and provide your insurer with photos and professional assessments.
• Keep records of all communications and repair estimates.

Repair Process and Considerations

• Tile Replacement: Broken or cracked solar tiles will need to be replaced carefully to restore functionality. Unlike traditional roof tiles, solar tiles include electrical components that require specialist handling.
• Roof Integrity: Ensure that roofing repairs prevent water ingress, which could lead to further damage such as damp or structural weakening.
• Electrical Safety: Only qualified electricians should reconnect or repair wiring affected by the storm.
• Efficiency Impact: Repairs can restore your system's efficiency, but note that solar roof tiles typically have about 5% less efficiency than conventional solar panels, so regular maintenance is important.

Real-World UK Context and Examples

• The UK experiences frequent storms, such as Storm Darragh in late 2024, which caused widespread damage including some solar farms suffering panel displacements.
• For homeowners and small businesses with solar roof tiles, storm damage can lead to costly repairs; however, solar tiles are generally designed to withstand typical UK weather.
• Areas prone to high wind or heavy rain, like coastal regions or parts of Wales and Scotland, should consider additional protective measures during installation.

Practical Advice for Homeowners and Small Business Owners

• Regular Maintenance: Schedule inspections, especially after severe weather, to catch damage early.
• Choose Experienced Installers: Work with MCS-certified professionals familiar with solar roof tile systems.
• Understand Your Warranty: Know what is covered in your solar tile warranty, including potential storm damage.
• Keep Records: Maintain detailed documentation of installation, inspections, and any repairs.
• Be Proactive: Trim nearby trees and secure loose objects to reduce debris impact during storms.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring minor damage, which can worsen over time causing leaks or electrical faults.
• Attempting DIY repairs, which could void warranties or result in unsafe installations.
• Failing to check insurance coverage beforehand, leading to unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.

Pros and Cons of Solar Roof Tiles in Storm-Prone Areas

Pros	Cons
Integrated into roof, preserving aesthetic	Slightly less efficient than traditional solar panels
Generally durable and weather-resistant	Repairs can be more complex and costly
Can increase property value	Damage can affect both roofing and electrical systems

In summary, if your solar roof tiles are damaged in a storm, prompt inspection, professional assessment, and timely repairs are essential to restore safety and energy production. Ensuring proper insurance coverage and working with accredited installers will protect your investment and give peace of mind in the unpredictable UK weather.