Solar panel systems come with multiple warranties covering different aspects of your installation. Understanding which warranty applies to your problem, what documentation you need, and how to navigate the claims process can mean the difference between a successful claim and an expensive repair bill. The process varies significantly depending on whether you are claiming for a manufacturing defect, underperformance, or installation fault, and whether your original installer is still in business.
Most UK homeowners have three separate warranties: a product warranty from the panel manufacturer covering defects, a performance warranty guaranteeing minimum output over time, and a workmanship warranty from the installer covering installation quality. Each has different claim procedures, different evidence requirements, and different potential outcomes. Knowing which warranty covers your specific issue is the essential first step.
This guide explains the different types of solar warranties, how to identify which applies to your situation, what documentation and evidence you need to support a claim, the step-by-step process for making claims, and what to do if your installer has ceased trading. We also cover your additional legal protections under consumer law and credit card Section 75 rights that may provide recourse even when warranties fail.
Quick Overview
| Product warranty | Covers manufacturing defects; typically 10 to 25 years; claim to manufacturer |
| Performance warranty | Guarantees minimum output; typically 25 to 30 years; claim to manufacturer |
| Workmanship warranty | Covers installation faults; minimum 2 years (MCS); claim to installer |
| Insurance Backed Guarantee (IBG) | Protects workmanship warranty if installer goes bust |
| Key documentation | Serial numbers, photos, monitoring data, installation certificate, purchase invoice |
| Claim timeframe | Report issues within 30 days of discovery; do not delay |
| Labour costs | Often not covered; check warranty terms carefully |
Understanding Solar Panel Warranties
The Three Types of Warranty
| Warranty Type | Provider | Typical Duration | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Product warranty | Panel/inverter manufacturer | 10 to 25 years (panels); 5 to 12 years (inverters) | Manufacturing defects, material faults, premature failure |
| Performance warranty | Panel manufacturer | 25 to 30 years | Minimum power output over time; degradation limits |
| Workmanship warranty | Installer | 2 to 10 years | Installation quality, wiring, mounting, roof integrity |
Product Warranty Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| What it covers | Defective solar cells, faulty internal components, junction box failures, glass defects from manufacturing |
| What it excludes | Weather damage, accidents, vandalism, improper installation, DIY repairs, fire, theft |
| Typical duration | Standard: 10 to 15 years; Premium brands: 25 years |
| Claim outcome | Repair, replacement, or refund of residual value |
| Labour coverage | Often not included; some premium brands cover labour for first few years |
Performance Warranty Details
The difference between tiers matters more over time than most buyers realise – see our guide to premium vs budget solar panels for how performance warranties play out over 25 years.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| What it guarantees | Minimum power output at specified intervals (e.g., 90% at 10 years, 80% at 25 years) |
| Degradation limit | Typically 0.5% to 0.7% per year maximum |
| Linear vs stepped | Linear: consistent annual decline; Stepped: specific percentages at milestones |
| Proof required | Independent testing may be required to verify output has dropped below guaranteed level |
| Claim outcome | Additional panels, replacement, or compensation for output gap |
Performance Warranty Examples
| Brand Tier | Year 1 | Year 10 | Year 25 | Degradation Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premium (SunPower, REC) | 98% | 93%+ | 90%+ | 0.25% to 0.4% per year |
| Tier 1 standard | 97% | 90% | 80% to 84% | 0.5% to 0.55% per year |
| Budget | 97% | 90% | 80% | 0.7% per year |
Workmanship Warranty Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| What it covers | Faulty wiring, poor mounting, roof leaks from installation, electrical faults from workmanship |
| MCS minimum | 2 years required for MCS certification |
| Extended options | Some installers offer 5 to 10 years |
| Insurance Backed Guarantee | Required by MCS; protects warranty if installer ceases trading |
| Claim outcome | Repair or rectification of installation fault at no cost |
Identifying Which Warranty Applies
Common Issues and Applicable Warranty
Correctly diagnosing the fault before submitting a claim saves weeks of back-and-forth. Our guide on solar panel fault finding covers thermal imaging, EL imaging and electrical testing – the evidence manufacturers expect for complex claims.
| Problem | Likely Warranty | Evidence Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Panel producing zero output | Product warranty | Serial number, monitoring data showing failure |
| Visible hotspot or burn mark | Product warranty | Photos, thermal images if available |
| Junction box melted or damaged | Product warranty | Photos, description of when discovered |
| Glass cracked (no external cause) | Product warranty | Photos showing crack pattern; evidence no impact |
| Output significantly below warranty level | Performance warranty | Independent testing results, monitoring history |
| Roof leaking at panel mounts | Workmanship warranty | Photos, description of leak location |
| Loose wiring or connections | Workmanship warranty | Photos, electrician report if inspected |
| Inverter error codes | Inverter product warranty | Error code screenshots, system logs |
| Panels blown off in storm | Home insurance (not warranty) | Photos, weather records |
| Hail damage | Home insurance (not warranty) | Photos, weather records |
Note the last two rows: storm and hail damage are insurance claims, not warranty claims. See our guide to solar panel insurance claims for those routes. For inverter error codes specifically, our solar inverter error codes guide helps identify what to document.
When Multiple Warranties Might Apply
| Scenario | Primary Warranty | Secondary Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Panel failed; was it defective or installed wrong? | Investigate both | Manufacturer may blame installer; installer may blame manufacturer |
| System underperforming; panels or installation? | Check monitoring first | If all panels low: possible installation; if one panel low: possible defect |
| Inverter failing repeatedly | Inverter product warranty | If installation caused damage, workmanship may apply |
Documentation Required for Claims
Essential Documents to Keep
| Document | Why It Is Needed | Where to Find It |
|---|---|---|
| MCS certificate | Proves compliant installation; required for IBG claims | Should be in handover pack; can request from MCS |
| Panel serial numbers | Essential for any manufacturer claim | Labels on back of panels; may be in commissioning docs |
| Inverter serial number | Required for inverter warranty claims | Label on inverter; in monitoring app |
| Purchase invoice | Proves purchase date and price paid | From installer; email records |
| Warranty certificates | Confirms warranty terms and duration | Handover pack; manufacturer website registration |
| Installation certificate | Proves correct installation | Handover pack from installer |
| Commissioning report | Documents initial system performance | Should be provided at installation |
| IBG policy document | Needed if claiming when installer gone bust | Handover pack; MCS certificate may show insurer |
Evidence for Specific Claims
| Claim Type | Evidence Required | How to Obtain |
|---|---|---|
| Product defect | Photos of defect, serial number of affected panel, date discovered | Take clear photos; note serial number from label |
| Performance shortfall | Monitoring data showing output, independent test results | Download from monitoring app; commission independent test |
| Workmanship fault | Photos of issue, description of problem, installer report | Document issue; have installer or electrician inspect |
| Inverter failure | Error codes, system logs, photos of display | Screenshot error codes; download logs from monitoring |
Manufacturer-Specific Requirements
Each manufacturer has specific evidence formats and requirements. Claims submitted in the wrong format or missing required information are often rejected or delayed. Common requirements include:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Serial number format | Must match exactly as printed; some have specific character counts |
| Photo specifications | May require specific angles, close-ups of labels, wide shots of installation |
| Monitoring data format | Some require CSV exports; others accept screenshots |
| Fault description | Technical description of issue; when first noticed; any error codes |
| Installation details | Installation date, installer name, system configuration |
The Claims Process Step by Step
Product Warranty Claim Process
| Step | Action | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Document the issue | Take photos, note serial numbers, record date discovered | Include wide shots and close-ups; photograph labels |
| 2. Gather documentation | Locate warranty certificate, purchase invoice, installation certificate | Check handover pack; search emails for records |
| 3. Contact installer first | Report issue; ask them to diagnose cause | They may handle claim on your behalf |
| 4. Submit claim to manufacturer | Complete claim form; provide all evidence | Use manufacturer’s official channels; keep copies |
| 5. Await assessment | Manufacturer reviews evidence; may request more info | Respond promptly to requests; be thorough |
| 6. Inspection (if required) | Manufacturer may send technician or request panel return | Keep records of any inspections |
| 7. Resolution | Repair, replacement, or compensation provided | Confirm who pays for labour if not covered |
Performance Warranty Claim Process
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Compare output to warranty | Calculate current output vs guaranteed minimum | Use year-on-year data at same time of year |
| 2. Rule out other causes | Check for shading, soiling, inverter faults | Ensure underperformance is panel-related |
| 3. Obtain independent testing | Commission accredited test of panel output | This may be at your expense initially |
| 4. Submit claim with evidence | Provide test results, monitoring history, serial numbers | Show output is below guaranteed level |
| 5. Manufacturer assessment | They may require their own testing | Cooperate with any requests for access |
| 6. Resolution | Additional panels, replacement, or compensation | Outcome depends on shortfall amount |
Workmanship Warranty Claim Process
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Document the fault | Photos, description, date discovered | Show the installation issue clearly |
| 2. Contact installer | Report issue in writing; request inspection | Keep records of all communication |
| 3. Installer assessment | They should visit to diagnose the problem | If they dispute, get independent opinion |
| 4. Rectification | Installer repairs the workmanship fault | Should be at no cost within warranty period |
| 5. If installer refuses | Escalate to RECC, Trading Standards, or court | Keep all evidence for potential dispute |
What Happens If Your Installer Has Gone Bust
Finding Your IBG Provider
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. Check handover documents | Look for IBG policy document or certificate |
| 2. Check MCS certificate | Insurance provider may be named in top right corner |
| 3. Contact RECC | They may know which insurer your installer used |
| 4. Contact common IBG providers | HIES, HomePro, QA National Warranties, QANW |
Claiming on Your IBG
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Verify installer status | Check Companies House to confirm they have ceased trading |
| Contact IBG provider | Report the issue and that installer is no longer trading |
| Provide documentation | Contract, guarantee, proof of payment, MCS certificate |
| Complete claim form | Describe the workmanship issue in detail |
| Pay excess if applicable | Some policies have an excess amount |
| IBG arranges repair | Insurer typically appoints their own contractor |
IBG Provider Contact Information
| Provider | Typical Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| HIES | Up to 10 years | Must register policy; 30-day defect reporting |
| HomePro Insurance | 2, 5, or 10 years | Defects within 6 months of trading may be covered |
| QA National Warranties | Up to 12 years | Various coverage levels |
| Warranty Insurance Services | 2, 5, or 10 years | Report defects within 30 days of discovery |
What If You Have No IBG
If you financed your installation, the finance route itself may offer some protection – see our guide to solar panel financing options for how Section 75, consumer credit agreements and PCP-style finance differ in the protection they offer.
| Option | Details | Likelihood of Success |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer warranty | Product/performance warranties remain valid; claim directly | Good for defects; independent of installer |
| Section 75 credit card | If paid by credit card, provider equally liable | Good if purchase over £100; must be direct payment |
| Home insurance | May cover damage; unlikely to cover defects | Depends on policy and cause of issue |
| Find new installer | Pay for repairs; no warranty recourse | Use MCS directory to find qualified contractor |
| Consumer Rights Act | Goods must be satisfactory quality; 6-year limit | Difficult if installer has no assets |
Claiming Directly from Manufacturers
When to Claim Direct
| Situation | Direct Claim Appropriate? |
|---|---|
| Installer still trading | Start with installer; they usually handle on your behalf |
| Installer gone bust | Yes; manufacturer warranty is separate from installer |
| Installer refusing to help | Yes; you can claim direct if installer unhelpful |
| Clear manufacturing defect | Yes; this is a product issue not installation |
| Performance shortfall | Yes; performance warranty is with manufacturer |
Major Manufacturer Claim Processes
Claim processes vary by brand – our solar panel brand comparison tool shows warranty terms side by side so you know what you should be entitled to.
| Brand | Claim Method | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| JA Solar | Written notification with evidence pack | Serial number, purchase date, photos, purchase invoice |
| LONGi | Online claim or via distributor | Serial number, evidence, project location, purchase proof |
| Trina Solar | Online warranty portal | Registration within 30 days of install; serial numbers |
| Canadian Solar | Via installer or direct online | Product must be registered; proof of purchase |
| SunPower/Maxeon | Online claim portal | Serial number verification; monitoring data |
Common Manufacturer Responses
| Response | What It Means | How to Respond |
|---|---|---|
| Claim approved | They will repair, replace, or compensate | Confirm timeline and who covers labour |
| More information needed | Evidence insufficient; provide what they request | Respond promptly with requested details |
| Request panel return | They want to inspect at their facility | Check who pays shipping; get RMA number first |
| Installer error cited | They blame installation, not product | Get independent assessment; may need to dispute |
| Claim denied | They believe issue is not covered | Request written explanation; escalate if you disagree |
Common Problems and How to Address Them
Problem: Manufacturer Says It Is Installation Fault
| Action | Details |
|---|---|
| Request written explanation | Ask specifically why they believe installation caused the issue |
| Get independent assessment | Have qualified electrician or solar engineer inspect |
| Review fault evidence | Determine if fault pattern suggests manufacturing or installation |
| Escalate if you disagree | Ask for escalation to technical team or management |
| Consider independent testing | Third-party lab test may prove manufacturing defect |
Problem: Warranty Registration Not Completed
| Situation | Options |
|---|---|
| Installer should have registered | Contact installer; they may still be able to register |
| Registration period expired | Contact manufacturer; some allow late registration with explanation |
| No record of installation | Provide purchase invoice, MCS certificate as proof |
| Manufacturer refuses | Consumer Rights Act may still protect you; consult Trading Standards |
Problem: Labour Costs Not Covered
| Situation | Options |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer will replace but not fit | Get quotes for fitting; manufacturer should pay for panel only |
| Labour costs exceed panel value | Negotiate; some manufacturers provide contribution |
| Premium brand with labour coverage | Check warranty terms; some cover labour for first years |
| Scaffolding required | This is often your cost; factor into decision to claim |
Problem: Manufacturer No Longer Exists
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| Check for successor company | Some brands are acquired; warranty may transfer |
| Section 75 credit card claim | If paid over £100 by credit card; card company equally liable |
| Insurance-backed warranty | Some manufacturers had third-party warranty insurance |
| Home insurance | Unlikely to cover defects; may cover damage |
| Accept and repair | Pay for replacement panel and installation |
Legal Protections Beyond Warranties
Consumer Rights Act 2015
| Right | Application to Solar | Time Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Satisfactory quality | System must work as expected for reasonable duration | 6 years from purchase |
| Fit for purpose | Must generate electricity as promised | 6 years from purchase |
| As described | Must match what was sold | 6 years from purchase |
| Remedies | Repair, replacement, or refund | Depends on how long since purchase |
Section 75 Credit Card Protection
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum purchase | Over £100 (the credit card portion must exceed £100) |
| Maximum claim | Up to £30,000 |
| Payment method | Must be direct credit card payment; not via PayPal or money transfer |
| What it covers | Misrepresentation or breach of contract by supplier |
| Joint liability | Credit card company equally liable with seller |
| Time limit | 6 years from breach (same as contract claims) |
Escalation Routes
| Route | When to Use | How to Access |
|---|---|---|
| RECC (Renewable Energy Consumer Code) | Dispute with RECC member installer | recc.org.uk |
| Trading Standards | Unfair trading practices; misleading claims | Citizens Advice referral |
| Financial Ombudsman | Section 75 claim rejected by credit card company | financial-ombudsman.org.uk |
| Small Claims Court | Unresolved disputes up to £10,000 | Money Claims Online |
| Ombudsman Services | Energy-related disputes in some cases | ombudsman-services.org |
Preventing Warranty Problems
At Installation
| Action | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Use MCS-certified installer | Ensures IBG protection; required for SEG |
| Get full handover pack | Should include all certificates, warranties, manuals |
| Record all serial numbers | Essential for any future claims |
| Confirm warranty registration | Some manufacturers require registration within 30 to 60 days |
| Keep proof of payment | Needed for Section 75 claims and warranty proof |
| Take photos of installation | Documents original condition for any future disputes |
During System Life
| Action | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Store documents securely | You may need them in 10 to 20 years; digital copies recommended |
| Monitor system performance | Early detection of problems; evidence for claims |
| Keep maintenance records | Proves you followed warranty requirements |
| Report issues promptly | Most warranties require reporting within 30 days of discovery |
| Never attempt DIY repairs | Voids warranty; safety risk |
| Use qualified technicians | Unauthorised work can void warranty |
What Voids Warranties
Improper cleaning methods are a common warranty-voiding mistake – pressure washers, abrasive pads and harsh chemicals are all on most manufacturers’ prohibited list.
| Action | Warranty Impact |
|---|---|
| DIY repairs or modifications | Voids product and workmanship warranty |
| Using uncertified technicians | May void warranty depending on terms |
| Failing to register warranty | May void warranty if registration required |
| Not maintaining system | May void warranty if maintenance required |
| Removing or damaging labels | Serial number required for claims; voids if unreadable |
| Physical damage from misuse | Warranty covers defects, not damage from external causes |
Summary
| Topic | Key Point |
|---|---|
| Three warranties | Product (manufacturer), performance (manufacturer), workmanship (installer) |
| Essential documentation | Serial numbers, photos, monitoring data, MCS certificate, invoices |
| Report promptly | Within 30 days of discovering issue; delays can invalidate claims |
| Installer gone bust | Use IBG for workmanship; manufacturer warranties remain valid |
| Labour costs | Often not covered; check warranty terms carefully |
| Additional protection | Consumer Rights Act (6 years); Section 75 credit card claims |
Successfully claiming on a solar panel warranty requires understanding which warranty applies to your specific issue and having the right documentation ready. Product warranties cover manufacturing defects in the panels themselves, performance warranties guarantee minimum output over time, and workmanship warranties cover installation quality. Each has different claim processes, different evidence requirements, and different providers to contact.
Documentation is critical. Every warranty claim requires serial numbers, and most require photos, monitoring data, and proof of purchase. The single most important thing you can do at installation is ensure you receive a complete handover pack with all serial numbers, certificates, and warranty documents, then store these securely where you can find them in 10 or 20 years. Digital copies are strongly recommended alongside physical documents.
If your installer has ceased trading, your manufacturer warranties remain valid and you can claim directly. For workmanship issues, your Insurance Backed Guarantee provides protection if you used an MCS-certified installer. Check your MCS certificate or contact RECC to identify your IBG provider. If you have no IBG and your installer has gone, you may still have recourse through Section 75 credit card protection if you paid over £100 by credit card.
Act quickly when you discover a problem. Most warranties require reporting within 30 days of discovering an issue, and delays can give manufacturers grounds to reject claims. Never attempt DIY repairs, as this voids warranties and creates safety risks. If you are unsure whether an issue is covered, start by contacting your installer (if still trading) or the manufacturer, and provide thorough documentation to support your case.
The single best warranty protection is choosing wisely upfront: an MCS-certified installer with a strong IBG, a Tier 1 panel manufacturer with a real UK presence, and payment of at least £100 on a credit card for Section 75 protection. Those three things together cover almost every scenario.
Then, immediately after installation, scan every document in your handover pack and save copies in two places (cloud + local). Record panel serial numbers in a spreadsheet. Take photos of the installation. In 15 years when something fails, your 2026 self will thank you – most warranty denials come down to missing paperwork the homeowner simply can’t find.
