Solar panels are a big expense. However, to many residents they are worth every single penny. Solar panels can not only decrease electricity costs each month, but they also add to a home’s overall value. Florida law allows homeowners to install solar panels and/or collectors on their homes or rooftops, even if the covenants or homeowners’ association’s rules say otherwise.
A quote from section 163.04 of the Florida Statute reads as follows:
“A property owner may not be denied permission to install solar collectors or other energy devices by any entity granted the power or right in any deed restriction, covenant, declaration, or similar binding agreement to approve, forbid, control, or direct alteration of property with respect to residential dwellings and within the boundaries of a condominium unit.”
Whether your condo or homeowner association approves of it or not, residents are free to install solar panels or solar collectors at their own convenience. However, the community association may determine the specific location where solar collectors may be installed on the roof.
Click here for more information on solar rights laws and solar panels in the state of Florida. Check out the U.S. Department of Energy for all you need to know about renewable energy solar incentives, energy efficiency, etc.
Has your association had a resident who wished to install solar panels or collectors? How was this handled? We want to know in the comment section below.