Solar Panel Warranty and Insurance Guide - Complete Guide to Solar Panel Installation in Perth

12 January 2026
28 min read
By Sun Direct Power
Solar Panel Warranty and Insurance Guide - Complete Guide to Solar Panel Installation in Perth

Investing in solar panels for your Perth home is a significant step towards energy independence and reduced electricity bills. As of January 2026, with the growing popularity of solar panel installation in Perth, understanding the intricacies of solar panel warranties and insurance is paramount to protecting your investment for decades to come. This comprehensive guide will illuminate the different types of solar warranties, explain what to look for in an insurance policy, and provide Perth-specific insights to ensure your solar journey is as secure as it is sustainable.

Understanding Solar Panel Warranties: Your Long-Term Protection

When considering solar panel installation in Perth, it's crucial to understand the layers of protection offered through various warranties. These warranties safeguard your investment against manufacturing defects, performance degradation, and installation issues, providing peace of mind.

Types of Solar Panel Warranties

Solar panel systems typically come with a combination of three main warranties:

  1. Product Warranty (Equipment Warranty): This warranty covers the physical solar panels themselves, protecting against manufacturing defects, material flaws, and environmental damage not caused by external factors. Most reputable solar panel manufacturers offer a product warranty ranging from 10 to 15 years, though premium brands can extend this up to 25 years. This ensures that components like the glass, frame, and backsheet are free from defects. Inverters, another critical component of your solar system, also come with their own product warranties, typically ranging from 5 to 12 years, with options to extend coverage for an additional cost.
  2. Performance Warranty (Output Warranty): This is perhaps the most unique warranty for solar panels. It guarantees that your solar panels will produce a certain percentage of their rated power output over a specified period, accounting for natural degradation. Standard performance warranties assure 90% power output for the first 10 years and 80% for 25 years. High-quality panels often offer more generous performance guarantees, sometimes promising 87% output after 30 years. This warranty is vital as solar panels naturally lose a small amount of efficiency each year.
  3. Workmanship Warranty (Installation Warranty): This warranty covers the quality of the installation itself, including the mounting, wiring, and connection of your solar system. It protects against issues arising from faulty installation, such as leaks, structural problems, or electrical faults. Workmanship warranties are provided by the solar installer and typically range from 5 to 10 years, though some leading Perth solar installers offer up to 25 years. It's important to differentiate this from product warranties, as the installer is responsible for the installation's integrity, while the manufacturer is responsible for the product's integrity.

What to Look for in Your Solar Panel Warranties in Perth

When evaluating solar panel installation in Perth, scrutinize the warranty details carefully:

  • Duration: Longer product and performance warranties generally indicate higher quality and greater confidence from the manufacturer. Look for installers who offer substantial workmanship warranties, demonstrating their commitment to quality installation.
  • Coverage Details: Understand what specific defects, damages, or performance shortfalls are covered. Pay attention to any exclusions or conditions that might void the warranty, such as unauthorized repairs or improper maintenance.
  • Warranty Provider: Know whether the warranty is backed by the manufacturer or the installer. Manufacturer warranties are generally more secure, as they remain valid even if the installer ceases operations. For installer warranties, assess the installer's reputation and financial stability.
  • Transferability: If you plan to sell your home, a transferable warranty can be a significant selling point, adding value to your property.
  • Claims Process: A clear and straightforward claims process is essential. Ask your installer about their support in facilitating warranty claims with manufacturers.

Manufacturer vs. Installer Warranties: A Critical Distinction

The distinction between manufacturer and installer warranties is vital for homeowners undertaking solar panel installation in Perth. Manufacturer warranties cover the solar panels and inverters themselves, directly from the company that made them. This means that if a panel fails due to a manufacturing defect, the manufacturer is responsible, regardless of your installer's status.

Installer (or workmanship) warranties, on the other hand, cover the actual installation work and the integrity of the system's integration with your home. If there are issues like roof leaks caused by poor mounting, or electrical problems due to incorrect wiring, your installer is responsible for rectification. The risk here is if the installer goes out of business. This underscores the importance of choosing a reputable and financially stable solar company for your solar panel installation in Perth.

The Clean Energy Council (CEC) recommends looking for installers that provide a full system warranty from a single entity for your entire system, as this can simplify the claims process. Additionally, always ensure that your chosen installer is CEC-accredited, as this signifies adherence to high industry standards and best practices. This accreditation provides an extra layer of confidence in the quality and reliability of your solar panel installation in Perth.

Navigating Solar Panel Insurance in Perth

While warranties cover inherent product and installation issues, insurance protects your solar panel system from unforeseen external events. Integrating solar panels into your home is a significant asset, and ensuring it's adequately protected is a key consideration for any Perth homeowner.

Why Solar Insurance is Essential

Your solar system is exposed to the elements and other risks. Insurance provides a financial safety net against:

  • Environmental Damage: Perth experiences various weather conditions, including intense sun, strong winds, and occasional hailstorms. Damage from these events, fire, or even lightning strikes can be costly to repair or replace.
  • Theft and Vandalism: Although less common, the theft of panels or damage from vandalism can occur.
  • Accidental Damage: Unforeseen accidents, such as falling tree branches, could damage your system.
  • Loss of Production: While not always covered directly by standard policies, significant damage can lead to a loss of electricity generation and, consequently, a loss of savings or feed-in tariff income.

Types of Coverage and What to Check in Your Policy (January 2026)

Most homeowners' insurance policies in Australia will cover solar panels as part of the building or contents, provided they are permanently attached to the property. However, it's crucial to confirm the specifics with your insurer as of January 2026.

Here’s what Perth homeowners should clarify with their insurance provider:

  • Inclusion in Home & Contents: Confirm that your solar panels and inverter are explicitly covered under your existing home and contents policy. Ask if installing solar impacts your premium and whether you need to declare the system's value.
  • Perils Covered: Verify that the policy covers specific risks relevant to Perth, such as storm damage, fire, lightning, and theft.
  • Replacement Cost vs. Market Value: Ideally, your policy should cover the replacement cost of your solar system rather than its depreciated market value. This ensures you can afford to install a new, equivalent system if yours is damaged beyond repair.
  • Deductibles: Understand the excess you would need to pay in the event of a claim.
  • Specific Exclusions: Be aware of any exclusions that might apply, such as damage due to poor maintenance or pre-existing conditions.
  • Public Liability (for installers): During the solar panel installation in Perth, ensure your chosen installer has current public liability insurance. This protects you in case of injury to workers or damage to your property during the installation process.

For homeowners with larger or more complex solar installations, or those seeking additional protection, specialized solar insurance policies may be available. These can offer more comprehensive coverage, including specific protection against loss of generation.

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Connecting Warranties and Insurance to Your Solar Panel Installation in Perth

Choosing the right solar installer in Perth is intrinsically linked to the reliability of your warranties and the likelihood of smooth insurance processes. A reputable installer will not only provide robust workmanship warranties but also assist you in understanding manufacturer warranties and guide you through insurance considerations.

Expert Advice and CEC Accreditation: Always prioritise CEC-accredited solar retailers and installers for your solar panel installation in Perth. The Clean Energy Council provides a code of conduct and best practice guidelines, ensuring higher standards of safety, performance, and consumer protection. CEC-accredited professionals are more likely to use quality products from manufacturers with strong warranty backing and provide clear, transparent warranty documentation. As of January 2026, the CEC accreditation remains a gold standard in the Australian solar industry.

Perth-Specific Solar Incentives and Energy Landscape (January 2026)

Understanding the local context, including available incentives and energy policies, is crucial for Perth homeowners considering solar.

Government Rebates and Programs

As of January 2026, the primary national incentive for solar panel installation in Perth and across Australia is the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES). This scheme provides Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), which reduce the upfront cost of installing eligible solar power systems. The number of STCs you receive depends on the system's size, its location (Perth falls into Zone 3), and the deeming period (currently until 2030). Your solar installer will typically manage the STC creation and discount the cost directly from your invoice.

While specific state-level rebates beyond STCs can vary and may be subject to change, Perth homeowners should always inquire with their chosen solar installer about any additional local incentives available in Western Australia in 2026. Consumer Protection WA also offers guidance and support for consumers in the renewable energy sector.

Western Australia's Renewable Energy Buyback Scheme (REBS)

For Perth residents connected to the Synergy or Horizon Power grids, the Renewable Energy Buyback Scheme (REBS) allows you to get paid for any excess electricity your solar panels export back to the grid. As of January 2026, Synergy's REBS rate is 2.5 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for electricity exported between 6 am and 10 pm, and 10 cents per kWh for electricity exported between 10 pm and 6 am. This scheme effectively provides a credit on your electricity bill, further enhancing the financial benefits of solar panel installation in Perth. It's advisable to check the latest REBS rates and eligibility requirements directly with Synergy or Horizon Power, or consult your solar installer, as these rates can be reviewed periodically.

Perth Solar Installation: A Case Study in Protection

Imagine the Smith family in Cottesloe, Perth, who installed a 6.6kW solar system in late 2023. They chose a CEC-accredited installer who provided a 25-year performance warranty, a 15-year product warranty on their premium panels, and a 10-year workmanship warranty. Their inverter came with a standard 10-year product warranty.

In late 2025, a severe hailstorm hit Perth, causing minor cosmetic damage to three of their solar panels and a slight dip in their overall system's performance. Because the panels were covered under their home and contents insurance, the Smiths filed a claim. Their insurer assessed the damage, and the panels were replaced. Crucially, the installer assisted them with the insurance claim process, providing necessary documentation and verifying the damage, highlighting the benefit of choosing a supportive local Perth solar provider.

A few months later, in early 2026, the Smiths noticed a persistent drop in output from a specific string of panels that seemed greater than expected. Their installer performed diagnostics and determined that one panel was underperforming significantly more than typical degradation rates allowed by the performance warranty. The installer then facilitated a warranty claim with the panel manufacturer, leading to a replacement panel being supplied under the manufacturer's performance warranty, without additional cost to the Smiths.

This scenario underscores the importance of both robust warranties and comprehensive insurance coverage for your solar panel installation in Perth. It also highlights the invaluable role of a reliable, local installer in navigating these processes.

Choosing Your Solar Partner for Installation in Perth

Selecting the right company for your solar panel installation in Perth is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make. Your choice impacts not only the system’s performance and longevity but also the ease and effectiveness of warranty claims and insurance matters.

Consider the following factors:

  • Reputation and Experience: Look for installers with a proven track record in Perth. Online reviews and testimonials can offer valuable insights.
  • CEC Accreditation: As mentioned, this is a strong indicator of quality and adherence to industry standards.
  • Local Presence and Support: A local Perth solar installer can offer faster response times for maintenance, troubleshooting, and warranty support.
  • Clarity of Documentation: Ensure all warranty documents, insurance advice, and system specifications are clearly explained and provided in writing.
  • After-Sales Service: Inquire about their customer support for any issues that may arise post-installation.
  • Multiple Quotes: Obtain quotes from several reputable solar companies to compare system designs, component quality, pricing, and warranty offerings.

Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Panel Warranties & Insurance

Q: What voids a solar panel warranty? A: Warranties can be voided by improper installation by an uncertified professional, physical damage due to negligence (e.g., walking on panels incorrectly), unauthorized modifications to the system, or failure to follow manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedules. Always refer to your specific warranty documentation for exact terms and conditions.

Q: How do I make a warranty claim for my solar panels? A: Typically, your first point of contact should be your solar installer. They often manage the initial diagnosis and liaise with the manufacturer on your behalf, especially for issues covered under product or performance warranties. For workmanship warranty claims, you would directly contact your installer.

Q: Is solar panel insurance mandatory in Perth? A: While not legally mandatory, having adequate insurance is highly recommended. Your solar panel system is a valuable asset, and protecting it against unforeseen damage is a prudent financial decision. Most homeowners' insurance policies can be extended to cover solar.

Q: What happens if my solar installer goes out of business? A: This is where the distinction between manufacturer and installer warranties becomes critical. If your installer (the one providing the workmanship warranty) goes out of business, their workmanship warranty might become void. However, your manufacturer's product and performance warranties for the panels and inverter should remain valid, as they are independent of the installer. This highlights the importance of choosing a financially stable and reputable installer.

Q: How long do solar panels last in Perth's climate? A: High-quality solar panels are designed to be durable and withstand Perth's climate. With good installation and maintenance, they typically last 25-30 years or more, continuing to produce electricity well beyond their initial performance warranty period. Their power output will gradually decrease over time, which is accounted for in the performance warranty.

Conclusion

Embarking on a solar panel installation in Perth is a wise decision for a sustainable future. By thoroughly understanding the nuances of solar panel warranties and insurance, you can ensure your investment is protected for its entire lifespan. As of January 2026, with the right combination of robust warranties, comprehensive insurance, and a trusted CEC-accredited installer, Perth homeowners can enjoy the benefits of solar energy with complete confidence and peace of mind.

For a deeper dive into choosing the ideal system and finding the best solar panel installation in Perth, explore our comprehensive pillar guide on solar panel installation in Perth.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and recommendations as of January 2026. Solar rebates, feed-in tariffs, and insurance policies are subject to change. Financial estimates and specific coverage details should always be verified with relevant government bodies, energy providers, and insurance companies. It is recommended to consult with a CEC-accredited solar professional and your insurance provider for personalised advice tailored to your specific circumstances.

Contact Information: For expert advice on solar panel warranties, insurance, or solar panel installation in Perth, please contact our team at [Insert Company Contact Information Here].

Sources: Esteem Energy. (n.d.). Solar Panel Warranties: Everything you need to know.

Solar Choice. (n.d.). Guide to Choosing a Solar Installer.

Empower Solar Australia. (n.d.). Solar Panel Warranties.

Vista Electrical Controls. (n.d.). Residential Solar Power.

Esteem Energy. (n.d.). Why Choose Us for Solar.

Solar Choice. (n.d.). Getting Multiple Solar Quotes.

Empower Solar Australia. (n.d.). About Us.

Synergy. (n.d.). Renewable Energy Buyback Scheme (REBS).

Consumer Protection WA. (n.d.). Solar Power – A guide for consumers.

Solar Choice. (n.d.). Solar Panel Warranties: A Complete Guide.

Stag Electrical. (n.d.). Solar Power Perth.

SolarQuotes. (n.d.). CEC Accredited Installers.

WA.gov.au. (n.d.). Home and Community.

Clean Energy Regulator. (n.d.). Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES).

Smart Commercial Energy. (n.d.). Commercial Solar.

Snap Solar. (n.d.). Solar Panel Warranties Explained.

SolarQuotes. (n.d.). CEC Approved Solar Retailers.

Watt Ever. (n.d.). Solar Panel Warranties.

Synergy. (n.d.). How REBS works.

Solar Battery Group. (n.d.). Solar Batteries.

Perth Solar Warehouse. (n.d.). About Us.

Synergy. (n.d.). REBS FAQs.

WA.gov.au. (n.d.). Energy and Utilities.

Synergy. (n.d.). Residential Solar.

Synergy. (n.d.). Residential Tariff Options.

EcoFlow. (n.d.). Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Solar Panels in Australia?Investing in solar panels for your Perth home is a significant step towards energy independence and reduced electricity bills.

As of January 2026, with the growing popularity of solar panel installation in Perth, understanding the intricacies of solar panel warranties and insurance is paramount to protecting your investment for decades to come. This comprehensive guide will illuminate the different types of solar warranties, explain what to look for in an insurance policy, and provide Perth-specific insights to ensure your solar journey is as secure as it is sustainable.

Understanding Solar Panel Warranties: Your Long-Term Protection

When considering solar panel installation in Perth, it's crucial to understand the layers of protection offered through various warranties. These warranties safeguard your investment against manufacturing defects, performance degradation, and installation issues, providing peace of mind.

Types of Solar Panel Warranties

Solar panel systems typically come with a combination of three main warranties:

  1. Product Warranty (Equipment Warranty): This warranty covers the physical solar panels themselves, protecting against manufacturing defects, material flaws, and environmental damage not caused by external factors. Most reputable solar panel manufacturers offer a product warranty ranging from 10 to 15 years, though premium brands can extend this up to 25 years. This ensures that components like the glass, frame, and backsheet are free from defects. Inverters, another critical component of your solar system, also come with their own product warranties, typically ranging from 5 to 12 years, with options to extend coverage for an additional cost.
  2. Performance Warranty (Output Warranty): This is perhaps the most unique warranty for solar panels. It guarantees that your solar panels will produce a certain percentage of their rated power output over a specified period, accounting for natural degradation. Standard performance warranties assure 90% power output for the first 10 years and 80% for 25 years. High-quality panels often offer more generous performance guarantees, sometimes promising 87% output after 30 years. This warranty is vital as solar panels naturally lose a small amount of efficiency each year.
  3. Workmanship Warranty (Installation Warranty): This warranty covers the quality of the installation itself, including the mounting, wiring, and connection of your solar system. It protects against issues arising from faulty installation, such as leaks, structural problems, or electrical faults. Workmanship warranties are provided by the solar installer and typically range from 5 to 10 years, though some leading Perth solar installers offer up to 25 years. It's important to differentiate this from product warranties, as the installer is responsible for the installation's integrity, while the manufacturer is responsible for the product's integrity.

What to Look for in Your Solar Panel Warranties in Perth

When evaluating solar panel installation in Perth, scrutinize the warranty details carefully:

  • Duration: Longer product and performance warranties generally indicate higher quality and greater confidence from the manufacturer. Look for installers who offer substantial workmanship warranties, demonstrating their commitment to quality installation.
  • Coverage Details: Understand what specific defects, damages, or performance shortfalls are covered. Pay attention to any exclusions or conditions that might void the warranty, such as unauthorized repairs or improper maintenance.
  • Warranty Provider: Know whether the warranty is backed by the manufacturer or the installer. Manufacturer warranties are generally more secure, as they remain valid even if the installer ceases operations. For installer warranties, assess the installer's reputation and financial stability.
  • Transferability: If you plan to sell your home, a transferable warranty can be a significant selling point, adding value to your property.
  • Claims Process: A clear and straightforward claims process is essential. Ask your installer about their support in facilitating warranty claims with manufacturers.

Manufacturer vs. Installer Warranties: A Critical Distinction

The distinction between manufacturer and installer warranties is vital for homeowners undertaking solar panel installation in Perth. Manufacturer warranties cover the solar panels and inverters themselves, directly from the company that made them. This means that if a panel fails due to a manufacturing defect, the manufacturer is responsible, regardless of your installer's status.

Installer (or workmanship) warranties, on the other hand, cover the actual installation work and the integrity of the system's integration with your home. If there are issues like roof leaks caused by poor mounting, or electrical problems due to incorrect wiring, your installer is responsible for rectification. The risk here is if the installer goes out of business. This underscores the importance of choosing a reputable and financially stable solar company for your solar panel installation in Perth.

The Clean Energy Council (CEC) recommends looking for installers that provide a full system warranty from a single entity for your entire system, as this can simplify the claims process. Additionally, always ensure that your chosen installer is CEC-accredited, as this signifies adherence to high industry standards and best practices. This accreditation provides an extra layer of confidence in the quality and reliability of your solar panel installation in Perth.

Navigating Solar Panel Insurance in Perth

While warranties cover inherent product and installation issues, insurance protects your solar panel system from unforeseen external events. Integrating solar panels into your home is a significant asset, and ensuring it's adequately protected is a key consideration for any Perth homeowner.

Why Solar Insurance is Essential

Your solar system is exposed to the elements and other risks. Insurance provides a financial safety net against:

  • Environmental Damage: Perth experiences various weather conditions, including intense sun, strong winds, and occasional hailstorms. Damage from these events, fire, or even lightning strikes can be costly to repair or replace.
  • Theft and Vandalism: Although less common, the theft of panels or damage from vandalism can occur.
  • Accidental Damage: Unforeseen accidents, such as falling tree branches, could damage your system.
  • Loss of Production: While not always covered directly by standard policies, significant damage can lead to a loss of electricity generation and, consequently, a loss of savings or feed-in tariff income.

Types of Coverage and What to Check in Your Policy (January 2026)

Most homeowners' insurance policies in Australia will cover solar panels as part of the building or contents, provided they are permanently attached to the property. However, it's crucial to confirm the specifics with your insurer as of January 2026.

Here’s what Perth homeowners should clarify with their insurance provider:

  • Inclusion in Home & Contents: Confirm that your solar panels and inverter are explicitly covered under your existing home and contents policy. Ask if installing solar impacts your premium and whether you need to declare the system's value.
  • Perils Covered: Verify that the policy covers specific risks relevant to Perth, such as storm damage, fire, lightning, and theft.
  • Replacement Cost vs. Market Value: Ideally, your policy should cover the replacement cost of your solar system rather than its depreciated market value. This ensures you can afford to install a new, equivalent system if yours is damaged beyond repair.
  • Deductibles: Understand the excess you would need to pay in the event of a claim.
  • Specific Exclusions: Be aware of any exclusions that might apply, such as damage due to poor maintenance or pre-existing conditions.
  • Public Liability (for installers): During the solar panel installation in Perth, ensure your chosen installer has current public liability insurance. This protects you in case of injury to workers or damage to your property during the installation process.

For homeowners with larger or more complex solar installations, or those seeking additional protection, specialized solar insurance policies may be available. These can offer more comprehensive coverage, including specific protection against loss of generation.

Connecting Warranties and Insurance to Your Solar Panel Installation in Perth

Choosing the right solar installer in Perth is intrinsically linked to the reliability of your warranties and the likelihood of smooth insurance processes. A reputable installer will not only provide robust workmanship warranties but also assist you in understanding manufacturer warranties and guide you through insurance considerations.

Expert Advice and CEC Accreditation: Always prioritise CEC-accredited solar retailers and installers for your solar panel installation in Perth. The Clean Energy Council provides a code of conduct and best practice guidelines, ensuring higher standards of safety, performance, and consumer protection. CEC-accredited professionals are more likely to use quality products from manufacturers with strong warranty backing and provide clear, transparent warranty documentation. As of January 2026, the CEC accreditation remains a gold standard in the Australian solar industry.

Perth-Specific Solar Incentives and Energy Landscape (January 2026)

Understanding the local context, including available incentives and energy policies, is crucial for Perth homeowners considering solar.

Government Rebates and Programs

As of January 2026, the primary national incentive for solar panel installation in Perth and across Australia is the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES). This scheme provides Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), which reduce the upfront cost of installing eligible solar power systems. The number of STCs you receive depends on the system's size, its location (Perth falls into Zone 3), and the deeming period (currently until 2030). Your solar installer will typically manage the STC creation and discount the cost directly from your invoice.

While specific state-level rebates beyond STCs can vary and may be subject to change, Perth homeowners should always inquire with their chosen solar installer about any additional local incentives available in Western Australia in 2026. Consumer Protection WA also offers guidance and support for consumers in the renewable energy sector.

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Western Australia's Renewable Energy Buyback Scheme (REBS)

For Perth residents connected to the Synergy or Horizon Power grids, the Renewable Energy Buyback Scheme (REBS) allows you to get paid for any excess electricity your solar panels export back to the grid. As of January 2026, Synergy's REBS rate is 2.5 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for electricity exported between 6 am and 10 pm, and 10 cents per kWh for electricity exported between 10 pm and 6 am. This scheme effectively provides a credit on your electricity bill, further enhancing the financial benefits of solar panel installation in Perth. It's advisable to check the latest REBS rates and eligibility requirements directly with Synergy or Horizon Power, or consult your solar installer, as these rates can be reviewed periodically.

Perth Solar Installation: A Case Study in Protection

Imagine the Smith family in Cottesloe, Perth, who installed a 6.6kW solar system in late 2023. They chose a CEC-accredited installer who provided a 25-year performance warranty, a 15-year product warranty on their premium panels, and a 10-year workmanship warranty. Their inverter came with a standard 10-year product warranty.

In late 2025, a severe hailstorm hit Perth, causing minor cosmetic damage to three of their solar panels and a slight dip in their overall system's performance. Because the panels were covered under their home and contents insurance, the Smiths filed a claim. Their insurer assessed the damage, and the panels were replaced. Crucially, the installer assisted them with the insurance claim process, providing necessary documentation and verifying the damage, highlighting the benefit of choosing a supportive local Perth solar provider.

A few months later, in early 2026, the Smiths noticed a persistent drop in output from a specific string of panels that seemed greater than expected. Their installer performed diagnostics and determined that one panel was underperforming significantly more than typical degradation rates allowed by the performance warranty. The installer then facilitated a warranty claim with the panel manufacturer, leading to a replacement panel being supplied under the manufacturer's performance warranty, without additional cost to the Smiths.

This scenario underscores the importance of both robust warranties and comprehensive insurance coverage for your solar panel installation in Perth. It also highlights the invaluable role of a reliable, local installer in navigating these processes.

Choosing Your Solar Partner for Installation in Perth

Selecting the right company for your solar panel installation in Perth is one of the most critical decisions you’ll make. Your choice impacts not only the system’s performance and longevity but also the ease and effectiveness of warranty claims and insurance matters.

Consider the following factors:

  • Reputation and Experience: Look for installers with a proven track record in Perth. Online reviews and testimonials can offer valuable insights.
  • CEC Accreditation: As mentioned, this is a strong indicator of quality and adherence to industry standards.
  • Local Presence and Support: A local Perth solar installer can offer faster response times for maintenance, troubleshooting, and warranty support.
  • Clarity of Documentation: Ensure all warranty documents, insurance advice, and system specifications are clearly explained and provided in writing.
  • After-Sales Service: Inquire about their customer support for any issues that may arise post-installation.
  • Multiple Quotes: Obtain quotes from several reputable solar companies to compare system designs, component quality, pricing, and warranty offerings.

Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Panel Warranties & Insurance

Q: What voids a solar panel warranty? A: Warranties can be voided by improper installation by an uncertified professional, physical damage due to negligence (e.g., walking on panels incorrectly), unauthorized modifications to the system, or failure to follow manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedules. Always refer to your specific warranty documentation for exact terms and conditions.

Q: How do I make a warranty claim for my solar panels? A: Typically, your first point of contact should be your solar installer. They often manage the initial diagnosis and liaise with the manufacturer on your behalf, especially for issues covered under product or performance warranties. For workmanship warranty claims, you would directly contact your installer.

Q: Is solar panel insurance mandatory in Perth? A: While not legally mandatory, having adequate insurance is highly recommended. Your solar panel system is a valuable asset, and protecting it against unforeseen damage is a prudent financial decision. Most homeowners' insurance policies can be extended to cover solar.

Q: What happens if my solar installer goes out of business? A: This is where the distinction between manufacturer and installer warranties becomes critical. If your installer (the one providing the workmanship warranty) goes out of business, their workmanship warranty might become void. However, your manufacturer's product and performance warranties for the panels and inverter should remain valid, as they are independent of the installer. This highlights the importance of choosing a financially stable and reputable installer.

Q: How long do solar panels last in Perth's climate? A: High-quality solar panels are designed to be durable and withstand Perth's climate. With good installation and maintenance, they typically last 25-30 years or more, continuing to produce electricity well beyond their initial performance warranty period. Their power output will gradually decrease over time, which is accounted for in the performance warranty.

Conclusion

Embarking on a solar panel installation in Perth is a wise decision for a sustainable future. By thoroughly understanding the nuances of solar panel warranties and insurance, you can ensure your investment is protected for its entire lifespan. As of January 2026, with the right combination of robust warranties, comprehensive insurance, and a trusted CEC-accredited installer, Perth homeowners can enjoy the benefits of solar energy with complete confidence and peace of mind.

For a deeper dive into choosing the ideal system and finding the best solar panel installation in Perth, explore our comprehensive pillar guide on solar panel installation in Perth.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and recommendations as of January 2026. Solar rebates, feed-in tariffs, and insurance policies are subject to change. Financial estimates and specific coverage details should always be verified with relevant government bodies, energy providers, and insurance companies. It is recommended to consult with a CEC-accredited solar professional and your insurance provider for personalised advice tailored to your specific circumstances.

Contact Information: For expert advice on solar panel warranties, insurance, or solar panel installation in Perth, please contact our team at [Insert Company Contact Information Here].

Sources: Esteem Energy. (n.d.). Solar Panel Warranties: Everything you need to know.

Solar Choice. (n.d.). Guide to Choosing a Solar Installer.

Empower Solar Australia. (n.d.). Solar Panel Warranties.

Vista Electrical Controls. (n.d.). Residential Solar Power.

Esteem Energy. (n.d.). Why Choose Us for Solar.

Solar Choice. (n.d.). Getting Multiple Solar Quotes.

Empower Solar Australia. (n.d.). About Us.

Synergy. (n.d.). Renewable Energy Buyback Scheme (REBS).

Consumer Protection WA. (n.d.). Solar Power – A guide for consumers.

Solar Choice. (n.d.). Solar Panel Warranties: A Complete Guide.

Stag Electrical. (n.d.). Solar Power Perth.

SolarQuotes. (n.d.). CEC Accredited Installers.

WA.gov.au. (n.d.). Home and Community.

Clean Energy Regulator. (n.d.). Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES).

Smart Commercial Energy. (n.d.). Commercial Solar.

Snap Solar. (n.d.). Solar Panel Warranties Explained.

SolarQuotes. (n.d.). CEC Approved Solar Retailers.

Watt Ever. (n.d.). Solar Panel Warranties.

Synergy. (n.d.). How REBS works.

Solar Battery Group. (n.d.). Solar Batteries.

Perth Solar Warehouse. (n.d.). About Us.

Synergy. (n.d.). REBS FAQs.

WA.gov.au. (n.d.). Energy and Utilities.

Synergy. (n.d.). Residential Solar.

Synergy. (n.d.). Residential Tariff Options.

EcoFlow. (n.d.). Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Solar Panels in Australia?.

Sources:

Information verified from official sources and industry authorities. Last updated: January 2026.

Sources & References

Information compiled from industry research, government publications, and verified solar energy resources in Western Australia.

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