Can Ohio Homeowners Sue Over Defective Solar Panel Installations?

The use of solar panels is fast becoming a favored way for Ohio residents to reduce their energy costs and add value to their homes. Even though installation is generally done without any problems, there are some cases where the contractor’s work is of poor quality, or the contractor does not comply with the terms and conditions of the contract.

Common problems with solar panel installation 

Installation mistakes can not only cause trouble but also expensive problems that can cost you a lot of money. The most typical problems that can occur during an incorrect installation are:

• Leaks on the roof resulting from improper mounting
• Electric wiring problems leading to serious risks
• Structural damage to your roof or house
• Insufficient electricity production of panels
• Inverters or other devices’ malfunctioning after their installation
• Late installation or lack of installation even after the payments have been made

These problems can make you pay additional money for their repair, and sometimes you will need to reinstall your whole system again.

Who is responsible? 

There are various parties that could be held liable for faulty solar panel installations. For instance, the installer might be liable when faulty installation practices cause damage to the home or do not fulfill the contract. Additionally, manufacturers might be held liable if the defect lies with the panels themselves. In other cases, even a subcontractor, roofer, or distributor could be held liable.

Establishing liability normally involves an examination of the relevant documentation.

Legal claims that may be available 

Ohio property owners have several ways to pursue compensation. For example, a breach of contract claim can exist when there is a failure to fulfill the terms of the agreement or install the system according to the contract.

If the installer provided false information about the system, tax benefits, or energy savings, there could be misrepresentation or a violation of Ohio consumer protection laws.

In other cases, a party contributing to the installation can be held accountable for negligence. Moreover, warranties offered by manufacturers and installers can offer another source of recovery.

What damages can be recovered? 

Not all cases are the same, but homeowners might be able to get compensation for:

• The cost of fixing the defect
• Repair work on the roof/structure
• Damages to personal property
• Energy savings lost
• Utility costs incurred
• Other financial damages associated with the defective installation

Recording the damage and getting an independent assessment might help build a case.

Protecting your rights 

As the use of solar panels grows more popular in Ohio, cases of defective installations are bound to occur. Knowing your rights will allow you to seek adequate compensation for your losses and protect your investment in your house.

If you are dealing with difficulties after a solar panel installation, an experienced Columbus consumer rights lawyer can help.

Talk to a Columbus, OH, Consumer Rights Lawyer Today 

Kohl & Cook Law Firm, LLC, represents the interests of Columbus residents who have suffered property damage or contract violations while adding renovations to their homes. Call our Columbus consumer lawyers today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin preparing your case right away.