A Florida Home Inspection Company’s Guide to Solar Panels on Roofs
As a home inspection company in Florida, we’ve seen a significant increase in homeowners installing solar panels to offset energy costs, reduce their carbon footprint, and take advantage of state and federal incentives. If you’re a prospective homebuyer considering a property with solar panels, you’ll want to understand how they work, the different types available, how they interact with the roof, what proper maintenance looks like, and how this information can impact your purchase decision.
1. Why Solar Panels Matter in Florida
Florida is known as the Sunshine State for a reason — we get an average of 230+ days of sunshine per year. This makes solar energy a particularly attractive option for reducing reliance on traditional utility companies. For homeowners, solar panels can mean:
Lower electricity bills
Increased property value
Reduced carbon footprint
Energy independence in emergencies
Regardless of the reason for installing them, we have discovered that there are some things that may need to be considered before making this decision and before purchasing a home that has them. From our vantage point as inspectors, we do see some of the potential challenges: roof damage from improper installation, aging systems that no longer perform efficiently, and misunderstandings about ownership (leased vs. purchased systems). Knowing the details before you buy is critical.
2. Types of Solar Panels for Roofs
Not all solar panels are created equal. Here are the main types we encounter in Florida home inspections:
A. Monocrystalline Solar Panels
B. Polycrystalline Solar Panels
C. Thin-Film Solar Panels
D. Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV)
3. How Solar Panels Work to Provide Energy
From an inspection standpoint, it’s important to understand the basic components of a solar system:
A. Solar Cells
The core of each panel, made of semiconductor materials (usually silicon), converts sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity through the photovoltaic effect.
B. Inverter
Because homes run on alternating current (AC), the inverter converts DC from the panels into usable AC power.
C. Mounting Hardware
This includes rails, clamps, flashing, and fasteners that secure panels to the roof. Proper mounting ensures the system can withstand high winds — crucial in hurricane-prone Florida.
D. Electrical Components
Wiring, conduits, disconnect switches, and monitoring equipment allow the system to operate safely and efficiently.
E. Connection to the Grid or Battery Storage
Grid-Tied Systems: Excess energy goes back to the utility company for credit (net metering).
Off-Grid Systems: Store energy in batteries for later use.
Hybrid Systems: Combine both approaches.
4. The Relationship Between Solar Panels and the Roof
This is where our inspection expertise is especially important.
A. Roof Condition Before Installation
Solar panels can last 25 years or more, so the underlying roof should be in excellent condition before installation. Installing panels on a roof that’s near the end of its lifespan means you’ll have to remove and reinstall the panels when replacing the roof — a costly process.
B. Mounting and Waterproofing
In Florida, roof penetrations for panel mounts must be properly flashed and sealed to prevent water intrusion. Check for:
Proper flashing around all mounts.
Use of corrosion-resistant fasteners.
Signs of previous leaks under panel locations.
C. Wind Resistance
Florida building codes require solar panel systems to withstand high wind loads. You should verify compliance by checking:
Mounting hardware rating.
Spacing and placement according to manufacturer guidelines.
Secure attachment to roof rafters or trusses.
D. Weight Considerations
Some roofs may require reinforcement to handle the additional weight of panels and mounting equipment.
5. Maintenance Requirements
We see that many solar panel owners assume “set it and forget it.” While solar systems are generally low-maintenance, neglect can lead to performance drops and costly repairs.
A. Cleaning
Dust, pollen, salt (in coastal areas), and bird droppings can reduce panel efficiency. In Florida,:
Rinsing panels with a garden hose every few months.
Avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning tools.
Hiring professionals for roof safety and to prevent damage.
B. Visual Inspections
Homeowners should periodically check for:
Cracks in the glass.
Loose wiring or connectors.
Debris accumulation around mounts.
C. Monitoring System Performance
Most modern systems come with monitoring apps or interfaces. Sudden drops in output may indicate:
Shading from new tree growth.
Inverter issues.
Panel damage.
D. Professional Inspections
We recommend a professional solar inspection every 2–3 years, or after major storms.
6. Florida-Specific Considerations
A. Hurricanes and Severe Storms
Systems must be installed to withstand hurricane-force winds. After a major storm, an inspection is crucial to check for:
Dislodged panels.
Damage to mounts or flashing.
Water intrusion points.
B. Heat and Humidity
High humidity can accelerate corrosion of metal parts. UV exposure can also degrade wiring insulation if not properly rated.
C. Salt Air
In coastal areas, salt air can corrode aluminum frames and fasteners. Stainless steel or coated components are preferred.
7. What Homebuyers should think about:
Understanding Ownership: Panels may be owned outright, financed, or leased. Lease agreements can complicate property sales and insurance coverage.
Estimating Energy Savings: Knowing panel type, age, and efficiency helps you gauge how much you’ll save on electricity bills.
Avoiding Roof Issues: A poor installation can lead to hidden roof leaks and structural problems.
Planning for Replacement: Knowing the age and expected lifespan helps you budget for eventual replacement.
Insurance Considerations: Some insurers require proof of hurricane-rated installations.
Bottom Line
Solar panels can be a fantastic investment in Florida, offering substantial energy savings and environmental benefits. But like any major home system, they require proper installation, maintenance, and understanding from the homeowner.
Your inspection company should provide you with a clear picture of the system’s condition, its relationship with the roof, and any potential red flags before you commit to buying. Armed with this knowledge, you can negotiate repairs, budget for future maintenance, and enjoy the full benefits of solar energy without unpleasant surprises.
We’re Here To Help
Feel free to call us if you have questions at 407-319-4608. You may also schedule your inspection or find additional information on our website.
*Image from Shutterstock