Installing solar panels on the roof can increase safety

Can roof-mounted solar panels reduce your risks?

Professionals at The Hartford share key factors that can help reduce your risks when installing roof-mounted solar panels. As the federal government, individual states, businesses and consumers take steps to address climate change, the use of renewable energy – including roof-mounted solar panels – has steadily increased.

Can solar panels cause a roof fire?

“Combustible insulation can easily ignite and move a rooftop fire down into the building’s structure," Travers describes. The presence of solar panels can also create issues for firefighters, creating a risk of shock and electrocution as they’re working and trying to put out flames.

Are solar panels a fire rated roof?

“There are three different insurance classes of roofs. Class A roof coverings are fire rated for severe fire test exposures," said Travers, “and is the safest for solar panel installation.” Lower roof classes often have combustible insulation underneath the roof cover, which can make electrical fires worse on a rooftop panel.

How many feet should a solar panel be on a roof?

Typically, rooftop panels should have 4 to 6 feet of perimeter on the roof and in between panels." Solar panels rely on cables that connect inverters and combiner boxes to transfer electrical energy.