Solar Panels - who owns them?

Yorkie64

I purchased a house with solar panels fitted - I have never had any info about them.
I was having some work done on the roof recently and the workman suggested they may need to be removed. He asked who owned them and I had to confess I have no idea.
I realise now this is something I should have looked into, but wonder if there is any way of obtaining some history of the panels. All the relevant searches/surveys were completed but do not make any mention of the panels.
Also would I be able to register for any tariffs on use of the panels?
Any guidance would be appreciated - preferably in simple language as I am starting with zero knowledge.

Cardew

Welcome to the forum.


You might be better posting in the 'Green and Ethical' section of MSE as that is where all the Solar owners post.


I assume they are solar PV panels? i.e. they generate electricity rather than solar thermal panels that heat hot water.


If the panels were fitted post 2010, essentially there were two schemes. If the previous owner bought the panels the would almost certainly be MCS registered and would receive a considerable subsidy,(FIT) which would still be paid; it could be in excess of £1000 pa.


The other system is referred to as 'Rent a Roof.' This means that a firm fitted them free, and they get all the subsidy. You just get whatever electricity you can use in the house.


If the latter, there is a big problem in that the Rent a Roof firm own the panels and equipment and the previous owner would have signed a 'lease' which has restrictions passed on to yourself. Your solicitor should have picked up on this matter.


If installed by previous owner, he presumably is still getting the income(FIT). Whist this is not technically illegal, it is unusual and you should have been informed and given your agreement.


Either way you should take the matter up with your solicitor.

System

I agree with Cardew. I cannot believe that there was nothing in the House Title Deeds relating to these panels. Moreover, if you have a mortgage then I would have thought that they might have been mentioned in the valuer's report.

Start with your solicitor.