Solar Energy Panel_Front roof

Started by SandeepK • 6 replies • 455 views

💬 Join us to post & get advice from 50,000 HOA & Condo leaders.

⚡ Takes 30 seconds

Already a member? Log in

SandeepK (North Carolina)
Posts: 1

Posted:

Hello All,

Have you seen Homeowners installing solar panels for Energy generation in front of their home on the roof top due to Sun direction? Usually HOAs do not permit them on Front, but on the roof towards back or on the sides.

What's the Cons of using Solar panels in front of the roof?

Have you heard about glare/ safety issues or any issues with aesthetic integrity of our neighborhood?

Thanks in advance.

GenoS (Florida)
Posts: 4,276

Posted:

I haven't thought about any issues regarding the aesthetic integrity of your neighborhood.

The only real issue, assuming competent and professional installation, is their appearance. You're not in Florida but I'll just say the FL Statutes, Chapter 163, says,

"A deed restriction, covenant, declaration, or similar binding agreement may not prohibit or have the effect of prohibiting solar collectors, clotheslines, or other energy devices based on renewable resources from being installed on buildings erected on the lots or parcels covered by the deed restriction, covenant, declaration, or binding agreement."

FS 163 goes on to say an HOA can specify the location, "where solar collectors may be installed on the roof within an orientation to the south or within 45° east or west of due south if such determination does not impair the effective operation of the solar collectors."

But you're not in Florida, SandeepK, so your answer will depend on your own state's laws and the governing documents, standards, and regulations of your association.

LetA (Nevada)
Posts: 2,679

Posted:

Solar has become quite popular here in Vegas, I see panels on the front roof as well as the back. Quite honestly there isn't a darn thing HOAs can do about it. Solar energy is ingrained into the the same legislation as PRB1 & PRB-2 when it comes to satellite dishes. Some state laws say it is a RIGHT. HOAs can have you fill out an ARC form, but they can't do anything to you if you don't complete one, nor can they turn down such an ARC request.

SheliaH (Indiana)
Posts: 6,964

Posted:

I would think there's no difference between the front of back, since they work the sAme way. The county North of me is wrestling with this issue and I think some folks are concerned about property values and you know how subjective THOSE can be.

If there's a solar panel company in your area, you may want to talk to them. It would be a great way to educate yourselves of how the panels are used and that could help craft the board draft future rules or even CCR amendments the homeowners might consider approving.

If it is not right do not do it; if it is not true do not say it. Marcus Aurelius

JohnC46 (South Carolina)
Posts: 14,265

Posted:

San

The only issue with solar panel on the front of the house roof are aesthetics. Yet if that is the only place they will work, an HOA can not ban them.

GeorgeS21 (Florida)
Posts: 3,808

Posted:

Photovoltaic devices must face the correct direction ... “front” and “back” terms don’t have much meaning.

GenoS (Florida)
Posts: 4,276

Posted:

Solar panel efficiancy is very much related to their orintation.

🎯 You've read this entire discussion

Join the conversation with 50,000 HOA & Condo Leaders:

✓ Ask follow-up questions
✓ Share your experience
✓ Get expert advice
✓ Access 350,000 discussions

Create Free Account →

⚡ Takes 30 seconds

Already a member? Log in here