Solar Panels and Fire Safety

Solar panels are becoming increasingly common in both new and period homes; their popularity being driven by the push toward net zero and Government incentives. While they offer clear environmental and financial benefits, they also come with responsibility – one of the most important being fire safety. 

What’s the risk of a solar panel fire?

As solar installations increase, so do the reports of solar panel related fires. According to a recent article published by The Independent, between January and July 2023 alone, there were 66 fires linked to solar panels exceeding the total number recorded in the whole of 2019, which stood at 63. This sharp rise in just half a year highlights the concerning upward trend in solar panel related fire incidents.

So, you’ve decided to install solar panels. But where do you begin?

The best place to start is to look at two key trade associations: Solar Energy UK and the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). Whilst the solar industry isn’t regulated by a single governing body, these organisations can help you find a contractor who is certified in the design and installation of solar panels.

Look for installers who are certified by NAPIT and NICEIC - the recognised certification bodies in the UK for electrical and solar panel installations. Choosing a certified professional ensures your system is installed safely and in line with industry standards.

What happens before installation?

Before installation your contractor should arrange a site visit, regardless of whether the panels are roof mounted or ground mounted. This visit is essential for assessing the number of panels required, where they should be placed and the best design to maximise electrical output for your home.

They’ll also check whether your roof can support the added weight of the panels and identify potential risks such as:

• Structural integrity
• Penetration holes that could lead to water ingress, pest entry or fire spread
• Roof materials and features like roof lights, which could aid the spread of a fire

My panels are in – now what?

You’re not quite done yet. Your installer should provide you with training on how to operate, monitor and maintain your solar panel system, along with an operating manual. This manual is essential, especially if you ever need to isolate the system in an emergency, such as a fire.  

Do I need to tell my insurer?

Yes, as you may need to increase your building sums insured. The buildings sums insured is essentially the amount it would cost to rebuild your home from scratch and this includes environmental upgrades – such as solar panels. For information on the other factors you may need to consider when setting your building sums insured, please read our article: Why your  home might be underinsured

Is there anything else I should be doing?

It might feel like the job is done, but ongoing maintenance is essential, especially for fire safety. Over time weather, wind and debris can loosen panel mounts or damage wiring, which can lead to fires behind the panels or in the roof. Debris build-up behind panels can also ignite when panels heat up.

It’s also worth noting that snow and ice build-up not only reduces efficiency but adds weight, potentially putting your roof under pressure.

Why cleaning and maintenance really matter

Regular cleaning and maintenance are important – not just for performance, but for safety.  Clean panels are safer, more efficient, and longer lasting. Regular cleaning helps to:

• Prevent hotspots. These are areas on a panel that overheat due to shading, dirt, or damage. Hotspots can reduce performance and have been linked to solar panel fires.
• Maximise energy output. Dirt and debris block sunlight from reaching the photovoltaic cells, reducing your system’s ability to generate electricity
• Extend panel lifespan. Clean panels operate more efficiently and are less prone to long-term damage.

The upcoming Joint Code of Practice for Fire Safety with PV panel installations (RC62) is expected to include regular cleaning as part of fire risk assessments. So, staying on top of maintenance isn’t just good practice, it’s becoming industry standard.

In addition to regular cleaning, we recommend:

• Post storm inspections. Have your panels and mounts checked after high winds or storms. Don’t climb up yourself – use your installer or a professional solar panel cleaner
• Check for loose wiring and debris – these can increase the risk of electrical faults and fire
• Remove snow or ice – this adds weight and reduces efficiency

Regular maintenance and professional cleaning are far more cost effective than dealing with severe dirt, lichen growth, or fire damage. Plus, many warranties require proof of regular maintenance.

Let’s talk about the birds

Solar panels are warm, sheltered, and ideal nesting spots, which makes them very attractive to birds. Unfortunately, nests under or around panels are a fire risk.

• Birds may tug at exposed wiring, which can lead to electrical arcing. Electrical arcing occurs when electricity jumps between two points that aren’t properly connected—like a spark. In solar panels, this can happen if wires are damaged or loose. These sparks can generate intense heat and potentially start a fire.
• Birds nests are made of dry, flammable materials - which can easily ignite.

So, while your solar panel cleaner or installer is checking your solar panels, ask them to check for nests and wire damage too.

How often should solar panels be cleaned and maintained?

Your installer should provide a tailored maintenance schedule in your operating manual. However, here’s a general rule of thumb:

Systems up to 50kW:

• Professional inspection every 12 months
• Self-inspection every 3 months or after storms/high winds

Systems between 50–100kW:

• Professional inspection every 6 months

Systems over 100kW:

• Professional inspection every 3 months

Remember: solar panels continue to generate electricity, even when the DC system is isolated from the inverter i.e. ‘turned off’, so do hire a qualified professional.

What if a fire still happens?

If a fire breaks out involving solar panels, the fire service may not directly apply water to the panels due to the risk of electric shock. This is because solar panels continue to produce electricity even when the system is turned off.

Instead, firefighters will:

• Contain the fire by spraying water around the panels to prevent it from spreading to the rest of the property or neighbouring buildings.
• Allow the panels to burn out if they cannot be safely isolated
• Use thermal imaging and other tools to monitor hotspots and structural risks.

This approach reflects the challenge of fighting fires involving electrical systems. It also underscores the importance of proper installation and maintenance.  

Key takeaways

To conclude, solar panels are a great way to reduce your carbon footprint, potentially lower your energy bills and decrease reliance on fossil fuels. But to keep them efficient and safe, ongoing care is essential. Remember:

• Refer to your operating manual and warranty
• Clean your panels regularly
• Carry out maintenance checks
• Arrange for the inspection of panels after storms or high winds
• Have your system professionally tested.

With the right care and attention, your solar panels can remain safe, efficient, and long-lasting.

Special thanks to the team at RiskSTOP and Will Ballard from Solar Cleaning Southwest for their expert insights and contributions to this article.

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Home insurance

As this article has shown, prevention is always better than cure. But if the worst happens and a fire does occur, having the right insurance in place can make all the difference. 

A fire brings with it physical hazards and emotional stress. That’s why it’s so important to ensure your home insurance policy reflect the true rebuild value of your property – including upgrades like solar panels – and has adequate alternative accommodation cover.

If you suffer a house fire, your priority will be looking after yourself and those around you. Our in-house Claims Team will help guide you through a loss and help secure the best possible settlement - quickly and without fuss.

It’s just one of the many benefits of using a broker. For more benefits, read our article: Why you need a broker for your home insurance.

To speak to us about your home insurance call 020 8256 4908 or email privateclients@howdeninsurance.co.uk