September 2025

As solar energy adoption accelerates across the globe, access to reliable data on solar installations is more important than ever. Researchers, policymakers, solar developers, and even homeowners want to know where solar panels are located, how large systems are, and how much potential still exists on rooftops, parking lots, and open land. Fortunately, several organizations have created databases, maps, and visualization tools that track everything from rooftop solar potential to the exact boundaries of utility-scale solar farms. This article explores the best places to find maps and databases of solar roofs, solar parking lots, and solar farms — along with practical examples of how you can use them.

Why Solar Maps and Databases Matter

Solar energy adoption in the United States is booming. With lower costs, federal tax credits, and increasing electricity rates, more homeowners are covering their roofs with solar panels. But while the benefits are clear, one side effect is less talked about: insurance disputes between solar installers, roofers, and homeowners.

When a roof leak or storm damage occurs, homeowners often find themselves in the middle of a frustrating triangle — with the insurance company pointing at the solar installer, the installer blaming the roofer, and the roofer deflecting responsibility back to the insurer.

This article dives deep into why solar vs. roofing insurance disputes happen, the most common causes, and how homeowners can protect themselves from costly battles.

Why Solar Panels Complicate Roof Insurance

Home insurance policies are typically written with traditional roofing in mind. Adding solar panels changes the risk profile in several ways:

Roof Penetrations – Mounting systems require drilling into the roof, which may void roofing warranties.
Added Weight – Solar panels and racking add hundreds of pounds, which could impact roof structure.
New Materials – Some insurers classify panels as “equipment” rather than part of the dwelling.
Third-Party Involvement – Solar installers and roofing contractors often overlap responsibilities, creating confusion when something goes wrong.

Insurance companies are quick to argue that damage stems from improper installation rather than a covered peril such as hail, wind, or fire. This leaves homeowners in a gray zone where responsibility is contested.

Common Solar vs. Roofing Insurance Disputes

Below are the disputes that most often land homeowners in lengthy negotiations:

1. Roof Leaks After Installation

Water stains or attic leaks often appear after solar panels are installed.
The insurer may say the installer’s drilling caused the problem.
The installer may counter that the roof was already compromised.
The homeowner gets caught in the middle, forced to prove causation.

2. Wind and Hail Damage

Standard homeowners insurance usually covers roof damage from storms.
However, solar panels may not be included unless specifically listed in the policy.
Even if the roof is covered, removal and reinstallation of panels may not be.

3. Voided Roofing Warranties

Roofing manufacturers often void warranties if panels are attached.
Some require a certified roofer to approve the solar installation.
If a warranty is voided, insurers may argue they are not responsible.

4. Removal Costs for Roof Replacement

Re-roofing is inevitable at some point during a solar system’s 25–30-year lifespan.
Many insurance companies refuse to pay for panel removal/reinstallation during a covered roof replacement.
These costs can run $2,000–$6,000, depending on system size.

5. Fire Risk & Electrical Issues

Faulty wiring or inverter malfunctions may cause roof fires.
Insurers may argue negligence by the installer, excluding coverage.
Installers may argue improper maintenance by the homeowner.

Comparison Table: Who Covers What?

Issue	Insurance Typically Covers	Roofer Typically Covers	Solar Installer Typically Covers
Hail or wind damage to shingles	Yes	No	No
Hail or wind damage to panels	Sometimes (if listed)	No	Sometimes under equipment warranty
Leaks at panel mounts	Rarely	Sometimes (if install approved)	Often disputed
Full roof replacement	Yes (if storm damage)	Yes (if defect-related)	No
Panel removal for re-roofing	Rarely	No	At cost to homeowner
Fire caused by faulty wiring	Yes (if accidental)	No	Sometimes, via installer liability

Real-World Examples of Solar Insurance Disputes

Texas hailstorms (2023): Thousands of homeowners discovered their policies covered damaged roofs but not the solar panels mounted on them, leading to out-of-pocket costs of $10,000+.
California leaks (2022): A wave of insurance claims was denied when insurers argued solar mounting penetrations caused water intrusion, shifting blame to installers.
Florida hurricanes (2020): Insurers covered torn-off roofs but refused to pay for panel removal, forcing homeowners to fight for compensation or delay roof repairs.

These cases illustrate how the lack of clarity in contracts can leave homeowners financially exposed.

Insurance Coverage Tips for Solar Homeowners

1. Review Your Policy Before Installing Solar

Ask your insurer:

Are solar panels covered under dwelling coverage or personal property?
Does coverage extend to removal/reinstallation during roof repairs?
Are there exclusions for “improper installation” or “roof penetrations”?

2. Replace Your Roof First (If Needed)

If your roof is older than 10 years, strongly consider replacing it before going solar.
This avoids premature re-roofing battles and strengthens your insurance coverage position.

3. Demand Written Warranty Clarification

From your roofer: Will the warranty remain intact after solar installation?
From your installer: Will they assume responsibility for any roof leaks caused by mounts?

4. Consider a Solar Rider or Endorsement

Many insurers now offer solar panel insurance riders. These may:

Cover panels as part of the dwelling.
Include panel removal/reinstallation costs.
Protect against equipment breakdown.

5. Document Before and After

Take clear photos of your roof before installation.
Document the installation process.
Keep inspection reports and signed contracts.

This evidence can be critical if a dispute arises later.

What to Do When a Dispute Arises

File the Claim Promptly – Delayed claims often weaken your case.
Hire an Independent Adjuster – They can provide an unbiased damage report.
Push for Mediation or Arbitration – Faster and cheaper than litigation.
Consider State-Level Protections – Some states (like California and New York) require clearer consumer protections for solar insurance.
Contact the Installer/Roofer Immediately – Escalate in writing and keep all communications documented.

The Future of Solar and Insurance

As solar becomes mainstream, insurers and regulators are adapting:

Green Home Policies – New products combine roof, solar, and energy storage into bundled coverage.
Clearer Policy Wording – Expect more exclusions if solar isn’t declared upfront.
Higher Premiums in Storm Zones – States like Texas and Florida are already seeing insurers increase deductibles for homes with rooftop solar.
Installer Partnerships – Some solar companies are beginning to partner with insurers to offer bundled protection.

Conclusion

Solar energy is a smart investment, but it complicates insurance and roofing in ways homeowners rarely anticipate. Disputes over leaks, storm damage, and removal costs are common — and can cost thousands of dollars if not handled correctly.

The key to avoiding conflict is preparation:

Review your insurance before installation.
Replace aging roofs first.
Get all warranties and responsibilities in writing.
Consider a solar rider or endorsement.

By taking these proactive steps, homeowners can enjoy the benefits of solar without being blindsided by insurance disputes down the road.

Where to Find Maps and Data of Roofs, Parking Lots, and Farms