Will plug-in solar panels affect your home insurance? An expert explains what you should know before fitting them

As of now, plug-in solar panels are legal in the UK, but their impact on home insurance is still uncertain. Nathan Blackler, an expert at Go.Compare, advises potential owners to disclose their installation to their insurer and check for any exclusions in their policy documents. While the panels themselves are easy to install, their value to the property may need to be considered, potentially affecting coverage limits.

Plug-in solar panels are typically covered under contents insurance, but if not disclosed, they could invalidate a policy in the event of an electrical fire or fault. Unlike traditional roof-mounted panels, plug-in panels are self-installed and carry a higher risk of unmanaged electrical risk, especially in communal areas. With new technologies like battery installations, insurers are still gathering data to accurately price against this emerging technology.