Am I required to insure my balcony solar power system? Which legal rights and obligations do I have to consider?
Balcony power plants are small photovoltaic installations specifically designed to be used on balconies, terraces, gardens, and facades. These systems are smaller than conventional solar sytems and are suitable for tenants or owners of apartments who do not have the option to install solar panels on the roof. With the elimination of the requirement for approval and the increase in performance, they are becoming increasingly attractive. Due to the 30-year performance guarantee of many modules, a solar power system could almost be considered a lifelong investment. However, the question arises whether insurance is advisable in this case. Insurance for larger photovoltaic systems definitely makes sense. The high acquisition costs and potential failure costs in the event of damage should be considered. These systems are also exposed to stronger external influences. However, through appropriate reimbursement, the costs for insurance can be amortized over time. Nevertheless, it is advisable to monitor your own power consumption over a longer period, both in summer and winter, to make an informed decision.
Which insurances are relevant?
It is not necessary to additionally insure your balcony solar power plant. Damages to balcony solar systems are usually covered by household insurance or building insurance. These insurances cover damages to the modules as well as other damages that may occur to the balcony solar power system. If the balcony solar power system causes damage to third parties, such as through falling parts, private liability insurance is responsible. This insurance covers the costs for property damage as well as for injuries or financial losses caused by the balcony solar power system. Loss of earnings from plug-in solar systems such as balcony power plants is generally not covered by your insurance. Since they do not qualify for a feed-in tariff for electricity production, there is also no demonstrable financial loss or loss of income that could be reimbursed by insurance.
FAQ
Do I need to insure my balcony solar power system?
A specific insurance for balcony solar power systems is not legally required. Usually, these are sufficiently covered by existing household, building, or liability insurances.
Are there insurances specifically for balcony solar power systems? Generally, there are no special insurance models exclusively for balcony power plants. Insurances companies provide coverage for damages to balcony solar power systems within the scope of existing household, building, or liability insurances. It is advisable to inquire with your own insurance company to clarify any uncertainties.
Is my balcony solar power system covered by household insurance?
If the modules of a balcony solar power system are damaged by hail, storms, fire, or overvoltage due to lightning, this is usually covered by the household insurance.
When is my balcony power plant covered by building insurance?
Balcony power plants installed outside the building, i.e., on the facade or roof, usually fall under building insurance. They are thus protected against the same risks as the building itself, typically including damages from fire, storms, or hail.
Do I need to report my balcony power plant to the insurance?
No, you do not have a reporting obligation to your insurance. However, you must inform your network operator and the Federal Network Agency.
Is it worth taking out insurance for a balcony power plant?
Unlike owners of larger photovoltaic systems, it is not worthwhile for most balcony power plant owners to take out separate insurance. Balcony power plants are considered part of the household, so damages are covered in most cases by household insurance. However, if the solar modules are attached to the roof or facade, potential damages are covered by building insurance. Liability insurance is rarely applicable, namely when third parties are harmed. It is recommended to inquire with your insurance company about any special regulations or exceptions for balcony power plants, or if they are excluded from insurance coverage altogether. In most cases, the insurance costs exceed the electricity yield, making it not worthwhile to insure a balcony power plant.
