We here at Adrian Hassett Auctioneers are seeing more buyers take an interest in homes with solar panels, particularly as energy costs and household efficiency become increasingly important considerations. While solar panels can offer meaningful benefits, they should not be treated as an automatic guarantee of lower bills or better value. Before purchasing a property with solar panels, buyers should understand exactly what has been installed, how well it performs and whether there are any ongoing costs or responsibilities attached to the system.
Solar panels can be an attractive feature in an Irish property. They may help reduce reliance on electricity from the grid, improve the home’s energy performance and make the property more appealing to environmentally conscious buyers. However, like any other part of a house, the system should be assessed carefully before a purchase is completed.
Here are five important things buyers should check.
1. Find Out What Type of Solar System Is Installed
Not all solar panels perform the same function. Some properties have solar thermal panels, which are designed to heat water, while others have solar photovoltaic panels, commonly known as solar PV, which generate electricity.
It is important to establish exactly what type of system is installed and what it is designed to do. A solar thermal system may reduce the amount of energy required to heat domestic water, while a solar PV system can help power household appliances, lighting and other electrical equipment.
Buyers should ask for details of the system, including:
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The make and model of the panels
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The installation date
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The number of panels
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The system’s estimated capacity
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Whether a battery storage system is included
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Whether the system is connected to the electricity grid
Understanding the system will help buyers assess whether it is suitable for the property and their expected energy usage.
2. Ask for Evidence of Performance
The presence of solar panels does not necessarily mean they are producing a significant amount of energy. Their performance can depend on the orientation of the roof, shading from trees or neighbouring buildings, the pitch of the roof, weather conditions and the condition of the equipment.
Ask the seller whether they can provide recent information showing how much electricity the system generates. Some systems have monitoring apps or online dashboards that record energy production. This information can provide a much clearer picture than simply relying on the fact that panels are visible on the roof.
It is also worth asking whether the panels have ever experienced faults or periods when they were not working. A system that has been poorly maintained may not deliver the benefits a buyer expects.
3. Check Warranties, Installation Records and Maintenance
Solar panels are designed to last for many years, but the wider system includes components that may need attention or replacement over time. In particular, inverters and batteries can have different lifespans from the panels themselves.
Buyers should request any available documentation, including:
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Installation certificates
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Product warranties
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Workmanship guarantees
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Maintenance records
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Electrical certification
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Manuals and system information
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Details of the installer
It is particularly useful to establish whether the warranties can be transferred to the new owner. Some warranties may only remain valid if the system has been installed and maintained according to the manufacturer’s requirements.
If the installation appears old, unusual or poorly documented, buyers may wish to arrange an inspection by a suitably qualified solar or electrical professional before proceeding.
4. Establish Whether There Are Any Financial or Contractual Obligations
One of the most important checks concerns how the solar panels were paid for and whether they are fully owned by the seller.
In some cases, solar systems may have been purchased outright. In others, they may have been installed through finance arrangements, leasing agreements or other payment plans. If the system is subject to an outstanding agreement, the buyer needs to understand whether the arrangement must be settled before completion or transferred as part of the sale.
Buyers should ask:
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Are the panels owned outright?
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Is there any finance outstanding?
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Is there a lease or service agreement?
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Are there any annual maintenance costs?
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Is battery storage included in the sale?
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Are there any payments linked to electricity generation or export?
These details should be clarified early in the conveyancing process so there are no unexpected complications later.
5. Check the Roof, Electrical System and Planning Position
Solar panels are only one part of the installation. Buyers should also consider the condition of the roof on which they are mounted. If the roof is likely to need repair or replacement in the near future, removing and reinstalling the panels could add to the cost and complexity of the work.
It is sensible to establish:
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The age and condition of the roof
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Whether the roof structure can safely support the installation
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Whether the panels were professionally fitted
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The condition of the inverter and battery, if present
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Whether the electrical installation has been appropriately certified
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Whether any planning or building requirements applied to the installation
The buyer’s solicitor and surveyor may be able to advise on documentation and any legal or structural concerns. Where necessary, a specialist inspection can provide additional reassurance.
Solar Panels Can Add Value, But Due Diligence Matters
A property with solar panels can offer practical benefits, including potentially lower electricity costs, improved energy efficiency and greater independence from the grid. However, the value of the installation depends on its age, condition, performance and ownership arrangements.
Buyers should avoid making assumptions based solely on the presence of panels. A well-installed and properly maintained system with clear documentation can be a genuine advantage. An outdated system with unclear ownership or limited performance may become an additional expense.
As with any major property feature, the best approach is to ask questions, review the available records and understand exactly what is included before contracts are signed.
If you would like to discuss buying or selling a property, contact us on 0871303206 or email sales@adrianhassett.com or visit [$ur*].
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and is intended for general guidance only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, details may change and errors may occur. This content does not constitute financial, legal or professional advice. Readers should seek appropriate professional guidance before making decisions. Neither the publisher nor the authors accept liability for any loss arising from reliance on this material.
