Installing photovoltaic panels at home or nearby can sometimes become a real headache. Between technical issues, disagreements with the installer, or tensions with neighbours, photovoltaic panel disputes are not uncommon. Many people find themselves helpless when faced with defective work, unexpected noises, or payment problems. It is important to know the steps to take to assert your rights, seek amicable solutions, and, if necessary, go to court. Here’s what you need to remember to best manage a solar panel dispute.
Key Points to Remember
- Always re-read the installation contract before taking any action: it details everyone’s rights and obligations.
- Gather as much evidence as possible (photos, email exchanges, quotes) from the start of the dispute.
- Prioritise discussion and mediation before considering legal action.
- Respect neighbourhood rules: distances, permissions, and absence of abnormal disturbances.
- Calling on an independent expert can help technically resolve a disagreement.
Identifying the Causes of Photovoltaic Panel Disputes
Before any conflict resolution, it’s necessary to understand why so many disputes arise around solar panels. These disputes appear in many forms, often complex to unravel when installation involves both technical matters, neighbour relations, and financial issues. Identifying the exact roots of the conflict is unavoidable to choose the right approach.
Problems with Defective Work and Non-Compliance
Poorly executed installations can lead to a surprising number of annoyances:
- Water leaks into the roof after panel installation;
- Electrical faults causing power cuts or safety risks;
- Equipment installed not matching the quote or promised standards.
This sometimes happens due to inadequate initial comparison of installation offers or lack of quality control when receiving the work. It is often recommended, from the quotation stage, to examine each line and planned service to avoid these imbalances. Good advice can be found in some specialist articles, with tips for analysing the real value of an offer methods for analysing photovoltaic quotes.
Disturbances Linked to Your Neighbour’s Installation
Neighbourly relations can quickly deteriorate if a project hasn’t been properly anticipated:
- Shadows cast over neighbouring plots;
- Annoying glare or reflections from the panels;
- Unusual noise, especially if the inverter operates at night;
- Possible disputes regarding use of shared areas or the look of the site.
Sometimes, simply placing a panel can trigger a tense exchange, especially if the neighbour wasn’t informed or consulted beforehand.
Disagreements Over Cost and Payments
A particularly sensitive subject concerns financial matters. Common sources of conflict include:
- Bills for unexpected or hidden charges after signing the contract;
- Advance payments taken without respect for the planned schedule;
- Disagreement about guarantees and costs of possible repairs;
- Blockage of deposit refunds or payment of compensation for late cancellation.
Such situations can be avoided by insisting on detailed quotations and keeping a written record of each exchange. Disputes, often lengthy to resolve, require composure and organisation.
| Origin of Dispute | Concrete Example | Main Impacts |
|---|---|---|
| Technical Defect | Roof leak | Damp, unexpected costs |
| Neighbour Dispute | Night-time noise or glare | Tensions, request for removal |
| Commercial Disagreement | Deposit not refunded or incomplete services | Financial losses |
Recognising the origin of the dispute from the outset greatly simplifies resolution and avoids escalation.
Analysing the Photovoltaic Panel Installation Contract
It is essential to read the photovoltaic installation contract carefully, whether it’s with a tradesperson, a company, or within a specific framework such as a photovoltaic PPA contract. A clear and complete contract provides the basis for defending your rights in the event of a dispute, and for ensuring the project runs smoothly to completion.
Keys to a Robust Contract
A good installation contract should cover several specific points:
- Technical description of the equipment (type of panels, installed power, sizing)
- Deadlines for delivery and installation, specifying penalties for delays
- Clauses regarding compliance with standards and local regulations
Careful attention to contractual details protects both the client and the installer, while preventing misunderstandings on site.
The contract is not just a formality: it defines, in black and white, what will be provided and protects the consumer.
Inclusion of Commitments and Guarantees
The chapter on guarantees remains central. Generally, it distinguishes:
- Manufacturer warranties on equipment (duration, terms)
- Ten-year installation warranty
- Energy performance commitments (expected production)
The absence or vagueness of this information in a contract greatly weakens the owner’s position in case of problems. Sometimes, specific terms are included, as in solar electricity purchase PPA contracts, where buyer and producer set out their expectations regarding duration, price, and quality of technical monitoring.
Cancellation and Refund Conditions
Disputes linked to cancellation are common, especially when installation faults appear or deadlines aren’t met. A protective contract specifies:
- Situations entitling you to cancel with no or reduced penalties
- Means and timescales for deposit refunds
- Recourses in case of disagreement (amicable, mediation, legal action)
Here is a summary table illustrating key clauses to check:
| Contract Elements | Risk if Missing |
|---|---|
| Detail of equipment and standards | Non-compliant equipment |
| Deadlines, schedule, penalties | Endless installation |
| Performance commitments | Lower than expected output |
| Terms for ending contract and refunds | Loss of deposit, financial blockage |
In all cases, it is recommended to archive every document, email or written exchange, since these are often the only solid evidence in a dispute with the installer.
Understanding Neighbour Rights and Obligations Regarding Solar Panels
When a photovoltaic panel project is installed near or on a neighbour’s house, it’s common for questions or concerns to arise. Understanding what each person can and cannot do helps prevent conflicts and promotes dialogue. Each neighbour has both rights and specific duties governing the installation and use of solar panels.
Distinction Between Ownership and Easement
It’s important to distinguish between private ownership and easements. A property owner governs their own property, but cannot infringe on their neighbour’s rights. In the case of a solar installation, you should avoid causing an abnormal disturbance (such as a significant loss of sunlight for the neighbour). Remember:
- The window easement protects against troublesome openings, but panel installation doesn’t necessarily create this type of easement.
- A modification depriving a neighbour of sunlight access can prompt legal action, especially if it seriously impedes normal use of their property.
- Any encroachment on a neighbour’s property (even minimal) constitutes a breach of property and may justify a request for removal.
Distance Standards and Abnormal Neighbour Disturbances
Photovoltaic projects must respect certain distances and avoid causing disturbances. Standards vary according to installation type. Here’s a summary table:
| Type of Installation | Recommended Minimum Distance |
|---|---|
| Roof (overlaid) | No fixed distance, but avoid overhang |
| Ground installation | Generally > 3 metres from boundaries |
| Industrial installations | Subject to local town planning rules |
- If there is excessive noise (e.g. from an inverter), the disturbance may be deemed abnormal.
- Judges often rely on the intensity, persistence, and duration of disturbances to decide.
- Local planning regulations always take precedence.
Before taking action, calmly talking with the neighbour or installation owner can often resolve the problem without heavy procedures or long-lasting tension.
Prior Permission and Declaration at the Town Hall
Installing solar panels requires certain administrative steps:
- Prior declaration of works to the local authority for most rooftop installations.
- Planning permission required if the surface area exceeds a certain threshold or is in a protected area.
- Strict compliance with local planning rules (panel colour, landscape integration, etc.).
According to EDF ENR’s tips for administrative compliance, these steps ensure the installation is legal from a municipal standpoint and prevent future disputes.
- The town hall can object in case of a breach of local rules, even if the system is already installed.
- In shared ownership, a vote at the general meeting is also required before installation.
In summary, the best approach is to anticipate: discuss, check the rules, and formalise every stage of the project.<br>
Reacting to Defective Work or Water Leaks
When a photovoltaic panel installation presents faults or causes water infiltration, it’s crucial to proceed methodically. Don’t let a suspicion of a defect or a leak linger, as damage can quickly escalate. Here’s how to proceed if a problem arises.
Carry Out an Expert Diagnosis
Start by requesting an independent professional inspection. An expert can:
- Check the installation’s compliance with current standards,
- Spot cracks, sealing faults or poorly fitted materials,
- Write a report that will form the basis of further action.
This often involves direct contact with a qualified technician or, in case of significant disagreement, requesting a court-appointed expert. Ideally, opt for a specialist familiar with photovoltaic panels and their relationship with roof waterproofing (protecting solar panels).
Compile a Dossier of Evidence
To support your case, you need to gather as much concrete evidence as possible:
- Accurate photos showing defects or signs of damp,
- Emails, letters and exchanges with the installer or neighbour,
- Invoices, contracts, signed quotes,
- Expert reports, where applicable.
A solid, well-documented file helps speed up dispute resolution and avoid unnecessary arguments.
A simple tip: file each document in a dedicated folder or digital format – this makes sharing it much easier if needed.
Request an Amicable Repair
Before going to court, dialogue and negotiation are often the most promising first step. Most of the time, a solution can be found with the installer, especially if contractual commitments are clear (check compliance with photovoltaic installation standards).
Typical steps for amicable resolution:
- Issue a written and detailed formal notice to the installer,
- Propose a solution (repair, refund, replacement),
- Possibility of professional mediation if contact remains difficult.
Quick settlement via an agreement avoids the costs, wasted time, and stress of legal proceedings. Otherwise, keep all records of correspondence to prepare for a more formal action if necessary.
Finally, keep in mind that some guarantees (ten-year, perfect completion) may cover such faults: read your contracts carefully to activate the right insurance or guarantee quickly.
Dealing with Noise and Electromagnetic Disturbances Related to Installations
Nowadays, it’s common to install photovoltaic panels at home or nearby, but certain annoyances, especially noise or electromagnetic fields, may arise. Systematic management of these disturbances is essential to maintain quality of life and keep good relations with your neighbours.
Identify the Exact Source of Noise
Installing photovoltaic panels sometimes comes with unusual noises, particularly at night, usually from inverters or associated infrastructure.
The steps to pinpoint the noise source are:
- Listen carefully at different times of day and night to identify noise peaks.
- Note where the noise seems loudest (near a party wall, in the loft, etc.).
- Record sound evidence (with a smartphone or recorder) in case of a future complaint.
The central inverter, placed far from living spaces, can often reduce the impact of noise. If the noise persists or gets worse, it can be useful to consult a professional to check the installation’s compliance.
A factual and systematic approach helps avoid misinterpretations and makes it easier to talk with the installer or neighbour.
Assessing the Health Impact of Fields
Photovoltaic equipment generates electromagnetic fields, mainly from inverters. As long as installations meet electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards, the health risks remain limited.
Here’s a simplified summary of recommended distances to reduce exposure to fields:
| Type of Equipment | Recommended Distance from Living Areas |
|---|---|
| Central inverter | 3 to 5 metres |
| Micro-inverters (per panel) | 1 to 2 metres |
Key points to remember:
- Electromagnetic fields decrease quickly with distance.
- France and Europe have strict limit standards.
- Ask the professional for a declaration of compliance with the EMC Directive (2014/30/EU).
If you experience symptoms (headache, insomnia) after installation, don’t hesitate to ask for a diagnosis or request that the inverter is moved if feasible.
Measuring the Recommended Minimum Distances
Respecting minimum distances between photovoltaic installations and living spaces is often enough to prevent disturbance.
Practical principles to apply:
- Check that the inverter isn’t in direct contact with bedrooms, lounges or other rest areas.
- Space micro-inverters as far as possible, favouring low-traffic areas.
- Regularly check for noise levels and electromagnetic emissions with a qualified professional.
Safety and compliance rules can change; it’s recommended to choose certified equipment and installation methods, such as overlaid fitting, which complies with strict regulations and ensures better material compatibility, thereby reducing the risk of disturbance (overlaid photovoltaic installation).
If a conflict persists with a neighbour or installer about these disturbances, it’s always best to discuss calmly and rely on factual elements (measurements, diagnoses, certificates) to find an amicable solution.
Accessing Mediation for Photovoltaic Panel Disputes
When a dispute about a photovoltaic installation cannot be resolved amicably, mediation is the preferred route before considering court. Mediation is a free, quick and neutral way to defuse conflicts without drowning in paperwork. This process is often overlooked, even though it’s particularly effective in the energy sector.
Role of the National Energy Ombudsman
The National Energy Ombudsman acts as a neutral third party to examine conflict situations involving an individual and an energy sector professional (installer, supplier, network operator). The goal is not to punish, but to help both parties find a fair, lasting solution.
- They analyse the case and listen to each side.
- They can request supporting or explanatory documents.
- They propose an agreement, never impose it.
- Their actions are strictly independent from energy companies.
Mediation is often quicker and calmer for both individuals and professionals, especially if you want to maintain neighbourly or commercial relations.
Procedure for Application and Other Remedies
Every request must follow a set order:
- Already tried a written complaint with the installer or supplier (letter or email accepted, both equivalent).
- Wait for a reply (up to 2 months). If no satisfactory solution, submit a request to the National Energy Ombudsman.
- Use the SOLLEN platform (100% online and free) or send the case by unstamped mail (the ombudsman provides the address).
- Include all relevant documents (contracts, written exchanges, quotes, photos).
After submitting the case, mediation usually lasts a few weeks to a few months. If the suggested solution does not satisfy either party, you can always go to court.
| Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Complaint to installer | Email or letter, wait 2 months |
| 2. Ombudsman referral | SOLLEN platform or unstamped mail |
| 3. Study and proposal | Analysis, proposal for agreement, not binding |
| 4. Final outcome | Amicable settlement or potential legal proceedings |
Advantages of Amicable Resolution
Choosing mediation has several benefits:
- Free procedure with no need for a lawyer.
- Guaranteed confidentiality in exchanges.
- Short processing times compared with court.
- Direct contact and practical solutions, tailored to each case.
For those seeking to avoid escalation, mediation is usually the least restrictive solution, while retaining the option of continuing if the dispute remains unresolved. To see if mediation applies to your situation or for more information on installation itself, see the page dedicated to optimising photovoltaic investment.
Gathering and Keeping Evidence
When a dispute arises around photovoltaic panels, keeping evidence becomes vital. Without concrete elements, it quickly becomes difficult to defend your rights during discussion or before an authority. Archiving, official records, email exchanges: every item counts if things get complicated.
Photographs and Bailiff’s Reports
It’s very often useful to document the state of things with dated photos, especially in case of visible defects (cracked panel, defective installation). For more impact, you may consider asking a court official (bailiff) to record an official report, making the facts difficult to dispute in court.
- Dated, captioned photos of the installation
- Short videos showing the operation or defects
- Detailed bailiff’s report describing the issues
Physical evidence, such as a photo of a damaged panel taken on the day the issue was observed, can be enough to unlock a refund when disputing with the company. If needed, a bailiff’s report remains the safest route.
Archiving Correspondence
Exchanges with the installer, neighbour, or council should be saved: emails, texts, recorded letters… Every message can be a key item in reconstructing the timeline.
| Type of Correspondence | Recommended Format | Storage |
|---|---|---|
| Emails | PDF/printout | Dedicated folder |
| Texts | Screenshot | Cloud backup |
| Registered letters | Original + scan | Paper folder |
Never delete a message, even if it seems trivial at first. A simple email in which the installer acknowledges a fault could strengthen any claim for compensation.
Value of Digital Documents
Today, as long as it can be authenticated (digital signature, metadata, etc.), digital evidence has almost the same value as paper documents in proceedings, as explained in a practical guide to photovoltaic disputes (steps to take). Keep a digital copy, on several supports if possible, to avoid loss or accidental deletion.
- Back up to an external hard drive and online storage
- Give your files clear, dated names
- Check the legibility of attachments (PDF format rather than JPEG for important emails)
By gathering evidence at the first sign of trouble, you’ll be much better prepared for whatever comes next, whether amicable or contentious.
Using Independent Technical Expertise
Calling in independent technical expertise is often a necessary step when a dispute over a photovoltaic installation cannot be resolved amicably. This can not only clarify the situation, but also influence any subsequent legal action.
Choosing a Qualified Expert
First of all, it is vital to select an expert recognised in the field of renewable energy.
- Choose an expert registered with the courts or referenced by a society of judicial experts.
- Check their precise experience in photovoltaics: some focus on general electricity and may not master solar installation specifics.
- Ask for a clear letter of assignment specifying the points to be analysed.
A well-chosen expert will provide an impartial, detailed analysis, essential for the next steps.
How a Contradictory Expert Assessment Works
The contradictory expert assessment brings all parties together, having notified each in advance of the timetable. Each side can present arguments, submit evidence, and question the expert.
- Presence of parties or their representatives
- Submission of documents and possible comments
- Expert report shared with all
The transparency of the process increases the credibility of the final report.
| Stage | Main Action | Usual Timescale |
|---|---|---|
| Appointment | Nomination of the expert | 1 to 2 weeks |
| On-site meeting | Visit and contradictory observation | 2 to 4 weeks |
| Final report | Writing and dissemination | 1 to 2 months |
Use of Expert Assessments in Legal Proceedings
When the dispute moves to court, the expert report becomes key evidence. It will provide the judge with an independent, fact-based analysis.
- Provides a neutral technical demonstration, whether of non-compliance, damage, or effects on the home
- Can unlock some situations before the hearing if the report is conclusive enough
- Acts as a basis for negotiation or mediation, such as with a consumer mediator
Calling on independent expertise often helps calm tensions between parties, moving away from a purely adversarial stance. It also helps, if needed, to prepare a strong defence in court without wasting time on fruitless exchanges.
Turning to an expert does not mean systematically contesting: it’s about seeking clarity and giving every chance to a resolution, whether amicable or in court.
Taking Civil Legal Action if Amicable Solutions Fail
When amicable discussions or mediation aren’t enough, it may be necessary to take the dispute over photovoltaic panels to a civil court. This step is called for when a neighbour or installer persistently refuses to acknowledge the issue or suggest an adequate solution. Legal action should always be a last resort, as it is often long, expensive and at times unpredictable.
Jurisdiction of the Civil Court
Since the merger of the magistrates’ and high courts, it is now the civil court that rules on all disputes concerning neighbours, installation contracts, or damage caused by photovoltaic installations. The relevant court is the one where the nuisance arises or where the installation is a problem. For amounts less than or equal to €5,000, proceedings can be started simply with a written request (Cerfa form no. 16042*02 submitted to the court registry), while for larger amounts, the procedure is more demanding. In the most complex cases, a solicitor is compulsory – mainly for sums in excess of €10,000 or legally complex cases, as explained in making use of the purchase obligation.
Formal Requirements and Supporting Documents
To begin legal proceedings, you must compile a solid case. This case should include:
- A clear, chronological report of the facts,
- Photos, videos, observations by a bailiff or expert,
- All written exchanges (emails, letters),
- The installation contract and any annexes,
- Quotes, invoices, and proof of payment,
- Any expert or diagnostic reports.
A complete, well-organised file makes it easier for the judge to follow the dispute. Don’t hesitate to include a precise estimate of the losses incurred, both material and emotional, for example in connection with leaks, nuisances or installation faults.
Carefully preparing your case – well before taking it to court – strongly increases your chances of success, but remember to weigh the costs and anticipated duration of proceedings too.
Using a Lawyer and Specific Procedures
A lawyer isn’t required in every case, but consulting one is still recommended, especially where the dispute is complicated or for high sums.
They can defend your interests and guide you at each stage. Also, in emergencies (imminent safety risk, major leaks), you can go to an emergency (summary) judge for provisional measures:
- Appointment of an independent expert,
- Temporary ban on using the disputed installation,
- Order for immediate work under court supervision.
In some cases, legal cover included in your insurance may cover some or all court and legal fees. Think about checking your policy in advance.
| Procedure | Dispute amount | Is a lawyer mandatory? |
|---|---|---|
| Simple request | <= €5,000 | No |
| Standard claim | > €5,000 | No (up to €10,000) |
| Complex claim | > €10,000 | Yes |
Finally, remember that the civil court rules based on evidence. Nuisance cases normally take 19 months, and there’s always a risk that the judge may not recognise the disturbance as ‘abnormal’. For specific queries or difficulties with the process, departmental access-to-law services or organisations such as ADEME can help (they also support some collective solar projects: support for project structuring).
Negotiating the Modification or Removal of a Disputed Installation
Addressing a photovoltaic installation at the heart of a conflict requires tact and method. Confrontation without preparation risks killing discussion. A structured approach increases your chances of a satisfactory outcome, without going to court.
Attempting Conciliation With the Neighbour or Installer
The first step is to open a dialogue. Set out the disturbances you have suffered (e.g. shadow, leaks or noise) factually and non-aggressively.
- Arrange a meeting to calmly discuss the issues.
- Discuss your aims: modification, moving, or complete removal of the installation.
- If possible, use an impartial third party (mediator, residents’ committee)
In shared ownership, the building manager or committee plays a central role in organising and authorising work to communal areas, as explained in the role of the manager and steps in shared ownership.
Drafting an Agreement Protocol
Writing down what’s agreed avoids misunderstandings later on. The protocol should state:
- The concrete measures agreed (adding a screen, partial removal, remedial works),
- The arrangements (who does what? Who pays?),
- The timetable and monitoring of progress.
A written agreement, even a simple one, serves as proof should any later dispute arise. It’s wise to keep it and, if necessary, have it approved by a legal professional.
Legal Obligations for Removing Panels
Removing or adapting a disputed photovoltaic installation is not always free from formalities:
- Comply with the prior declaration required at the town hall in case of substantial changes, just as for the original fitting (find out more about prior declarations).
- Check compliance with local rules and the co-ownership agreement.
- If the installation is in a protected zone, check the Architect of France’s guidelines and adjust the project accordingly, possibly using specific materials or colours (integration in protected zones).
Examples of Recourses If Negotiation Fails:
- Apply to a mediator
- Use an independent expert
- Legal action to remove or modify
In summary, prioritising structured dialogue and putting agreements in writing is the fastest and least costly way to handle a photovoltaic panel dispute. It’s often the way to find a neutral, satisfactory solution while respecting local administrative rules.
Assessing the Consequences for Health and Housing
It’s natural to be concerned about the effects of photovoltaic installations, especially when these are close to your home environment. Several things need to be considered:
- Inverters can produce a moderate electromagnetic field; it’s best to install such technical equipment away from living areas.
- Some equipment emits a slight noise, sometimes audible at night, causing disturbance or sleep issues for more sensitive people.
- If you notice unusual symptoms (headaches, dizziness, etc.), consult a doctor to rule out an environmental cause, even if there’s no solid proof linking this to solar panels.
Starting an open dialogue with your neighbour or installer often helps to avoid the emergence of health risks.
To check installation safety, it can be useful to request a technical and regulatory feasibility study, especially when several homes are nearby (compliance with ICPE framework).
Impact on Property Value
Does installing photovoltaic panels on a house change its market value? Several factors apply:
- Greater energy appeal for some buyers interested in savings
- Possible worries about noise, aesthetics, or obsolete installation
- potential exposure to scams or defects negatively affecting buyers’ perceptions
Table: Factors influencing a property’s value with solar panels — Qualitative analysis
| Factor | Likely Effect on Value |
|---|---|
| Recent installations | + |
| Faults or legal disputes | – |
| Excess production sold | + |
| Noise or visual nuisance | – |
You should keep the technical record of the panels and all administrative documents linked to the installation, as these ease any future sale.
Official Guidelines on Safety
Authorities regularly publish recommendations about solar installation safety. To maintain a good level of protection:
- Check with your local council to ensure the installation meets local standards.
- Request the initial inspection report or the latest maintenance check – often overlooked, but valuable in a dispute.
- Keep all correspondence with the professional or authority safe.
Keeping thorough records guarantees peace of mind for owners and neighbours alike. Transparent information about installation and maintenance greatly reduces the risk of disputes or unfounded concerns.
Choosing Alternative Options to Limit Future Risks
To avoid future disputes linked to photovoltaic panel installation, it’s wise to choose from the outset technical and contractual options that minimise dangers and potential conflict. These choices benefit safety and everyone’s peace of mind. Here are some precise strategies to consider.
Advantages of Overlaid or Ground-Mounted Systems
The installation method has a real impact on technical and legal risks.
- Overlaid installation: Panels are fixed above the roof, without piercing it. This limits leaks and makes future work easier.
- Ground-mounted installation: The least invasive solution for the roof, but requires space and increased safety precautions.
- Integrating into the building: More aesthetic, but riskier if faults occur (leaks, maintenance difficulties).
| Installation Type | Maintenance | Leak Risk | Legal Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overlaid | Easy | Low | Low |
| Ground | Very easy | None | Needs planning permit |
| Integrated | Complex | Higher | Common |
Thinking through the installation initially greatly simplifies management, even if disagreements arise later on.
Careful Selection of Providers
Choosing the right professional is a crucial stage:
- Demand a quality label, such as the QualiPV certification. This is proof of reliability and can give access to certain grants (QualiPV 500).
- Ask for and check references for recently completed projects, ideally near you.
- Always read customer reviews and ensure the installer is familiar with current regulations.
Regular Installation Checks
Regular maintenance reduces the risk of incidents and reassures your neighbours about the system’s safety:
- Schedule an annual check to inspect cleanliness, waterproofing, and lack of strange noise or emissions.
- Get a certified professional if any anomaly is detected, even a minor one.
- Keep all reports and proof of checks, this will be crucial if a dispute arises later (preventing technical risks).
Taking these precautions greatly reduces the risk of technical, noise, or leak disputes long-term. A bit of forethought now saves much trouble later on.
To reduce future risks, it’s smart to compare different solutions. Try to choose simple, safe options to protect your project. For advice on making the right choices, see our free tips on our website. Visit Solencia to take control of your future!
Conclusion
In conclusion, disputes around photovoltaic panels – whether with a neighbour or installer – are not rare. Finding yourself lost among emails, quotes, promises not kept and sometimes even noise or health worries is all too easy. The first thing is to keep calm and gather all your documents: contracts, photos, written exchanges. Talking directly to the person involved is often the best solution – but not always possible. If dialogue fails, there are options like mediation or, as a last resort, legal action. It’s never pleasant to go that far, but sometimes it’s necessary to assert your rights. In any case, it’s best to seek information, ask for advice, and not face the problem alone. The steps may seem lengthy but often lead to a solution, even if it’s not quite what you hoped for originally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my photovoltaic panel installer refuses to fix a defect?
Start by reading your contract to check what was agreed. Keep all your evidence (photos, email exchanges). If the installer doesn’t respond, try to resolve the problem amicably. If that doesn’t work, you can contact a mediator or take the matter to the appropriate court.
How can I prove there is a problem with my photovoltaic installation?
Take photographs, make videos and keep all written exchanges with the installer. You may also ask an independent expert to come and check the problem and write a report.
What rights does my neighbour have if my panels cause them a nuisance?
Your neighbour has the right to request that the nuisance stops if it is abnormal (noise, shadow, fields). They should first try to discuss it with you. If this isn’t enough, they can contact the local authority or take legal action.
Do I need permission to install photovoltaic panels?
Yes, in most cases you need to make a prior declaration at the local council before starting installation, especially if the panels are visible from the street or will change the appearance of the building.
What should I do if I experience health issues after installation of panels?
It is wise to see a doctor to check the cause of your symptoms. You can also have a study done on any waves or noise. If a link to the installation is confirmed, contact the installer and inform the council.
How does mediation work in disputes about photovoltaic panels?
Mediation is a way to find agreement without going to court. You can refer your case for free to the National Energy Ombudsman online or by post. They help both sides discuss and find a solution.
Can I request my deposit back if installation was not carried out?
Yes, if the installer has not met the contract or cancelled the job without good reason, you can ask for your deposit back. Keep all proof of your exchanges and, if necessary, contact a mediator or the courts.
What precautions can I take to avoid disputes with a solar panel installer?
Choose a reputable company, read the contract carefully before signing, check the guarantees and keep all written exchanges. Don’t hesitate to ask for references or read other customers’ feedback.
