For PV + reroof sequencing, who owns penetrations and leak liability 10 years out?

Trade Talk
1

For PV + reroof sequencing, who owns penetrations and leak liability 10 years out?

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When you’re doing a solar and roof replacement, here’s how leak responsibility usually works:

  • If the roofing people put in the mounts when they replace your roof, they’re on the hook if those spots leak, usually as long as the roof warranty lasts.
  • If the solar installers add the mounts after the new roof is on, they’re usually only responsible if their stuff leaks, not for the whole roof.

To avoid headaches, get a single contract covering both jobs. That way, there’s no blame game later.

Pro Tip: Write down who’s installing what, who’s warrantying the flashing, and for how long. To get 10 years without worry, make sure one company handles both the solar and roofing, so they’re responsible for any leaks.

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Determining liability for penetrations and leaks in a PV + reroof sequencing project can be complex.
-PV System Installer: Typically responsible for ensuring the PV system is installed correctly and doesn’t compromise the roof’s integrity.
-Roofing Contractor: Responsible for the roof’s condition and ensuring it’s properly sealed and watertight.
-Building Owner: May be responsible for maintaining the roof and PV system, depending on the contracts with the installers.

4

Usually the roofer owns watertightness; the PV installer owns their penetrations.

If flashing fails at a PV mount, liability is typically on the PV installer even years later unless a joint warranty was arranged.

5

Typically, roofing contractor owns roof integrity, PV installer owns solar system. Liability depends on contract wording: best practice is coordinated warranties and documented penetrations.

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Liability depends on contract terms and sequencing: if the roofer installs flashings and the PV contractor mounts through them, each is typically responsible for their own work.

Without clear agreements, disputes arise, so best practice is a single warranty or written cross-warranty stating who covers leaks for the full roof/PV term, especially beyond year 5–10.

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Whoever last touched the roof usually the roofer owns penetration and leak liability 10 years out, unless contracts say otherwise.