The Legal Landscape of Bird Proofing Solar Panels: Ensuring Compliance and Protecting Your Investment
Unveiling the Truth: Bird Proofing Solar Panels
Imagine discovering that the simple act of bird proofing your solar panels could void your warranty. This is the stark reality for many homeowners navigating an industry with minimal regulation. Bird proofing is not merely an add-on; it's a modification with significant legal and financial implications. Let's explore this critical issue in depth.
The Rise of Bird Proofing as a Necessary Industry
As the global number of solar panel installations climbs, so too does the problem of feral birds nesting under and around these units. Bird droppings and nesting materials can drastically reduce the efficiency and lifespan of solar arrays. Consequently, a new industry focused on bird proofing these installations has emerged. Despite its importance, this sector lacks specific regulations and oversight, making it a legal grey area.
Legal Definitions and Requirements
The Oxford Dictionary defines a "modification" as “the act or process of changing something in order to improve it or make it more acceptable; a change that is made” In the context of solar panels, any alteration, including bird proofing, falls under this category. According to the AS/NZS 3000:2018, also known as the Wiring Rules, modifications to electrical installations in Australia require compliance with strict standards to ensure safety and efficacy. This standard dictates that any changes, including the installation of additional components must adhere to these rules to maintain the integrity and safety of the electrical system and installer.
The Wiring Rules specify that any modifications, including the addition of protective devices or alterations to the existing setup, must be carried out or overseen by a licensed electrical specialist. This is crucial not only for safety of the system and the installer but also for preserving the warranty of the solar panels. Manufacturers require compliance with national standards for warranty validity and unauthorized modifications by unlicensed and untrained personnel will lead to warranty voidance (NSW Fair Trading) (GSES) (HIA).
These rules were updated significantly in 2018 to address new technologies and installation techniques, highlighting the importance of following contemporary standards that reflect the latest in safety and operational guidelines. The requirements emphasize protective measures when modifications are made to existing installations (GSES) (HIA).
In summary, for homeowners considering birdproofing their solar installations, it is crucial to employ services from licensed professionals who comply with nationally recognised industry standards. Doing so ensures safety of the installation and installer, compliance, and warranty preservation.
Consequences of Unlicensed Modifications
Often, bird proofing is carried out by individuals such as roofers, gutter technicians, pest controllers, or handymen who do not possess the necessary and legally required licenses to carry out this work. The two most severe consequence of such unlicensed modifications is the voiding of the solar warranty and the electrical safety risk to the person/s carrying out this work. Manufacturers will argue that these unauthorized modifications breach warranty conditions, potentially leading to substantial financial losses for homeowners.
The Reality of Warranty Voidance
This issue isn't merely theoretical. Many homeowners, unaware of the requirements and risks, opt for more affordable “cheap” birdproofing solution. They do not realize that such choices threaten both their warranties and the functional longevity of their solar installations as well as potential liability against personal injury. This loophole provides an easy way for solar companies to deny warranty and injury claims, as majority of installers carrying out these modifications are unlicensed.
Conclusion
Protecting your solar investment involves more than just installation; it requires ensuring that all the birdproofing modification adheres to legal and industry standards. Before initiating any modifications, verify the credentials of the service provider and fully understand the terms of the warranties they’re providing you. Majority of unlicensed installers offer a “product warranty” on their birdproofing material but do not provide a warranty against the caused to your solar installation and roof. There are many other warranties that are needed. Informed decisions are your best defence against these often-overlooked risks.