Can Your HOA Stop You From Installing Solar Panels?
Did your HOA tell you that you can’t install solar panels? They might be acting illegally. Homeowners Associations (HOAs) have the right to create and enforce architectural guidelines for the houses in their community. But in Arizona, an HOA can’t ban solar panels. They can, however, implement restrictions.
SouthFace Solar & Electric has been installing residential solar panels in Arizona since 2008 and we’ve worked with plenty of HOAs to ensure our installations meet their standards. In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about HOAs and solar panels.
Solar Access Laws in Arizona
Many states (including Arizona) have solar access laws that prohibit HOAs from banning solar panels. In Arizona, solar access laws are outlined in Revised Statute 33-1816. The statute states that your HOA may establish reasonable guidelines for the placement of your solar panels. But, they cannot outlaw solar panels entirely and their rules cannot “impair the functioning of the device or restrict its use or adversely affect the cost or efficiency of the device”.
Common HOA Restrictions for Solar Installations
Solar installation restrictions vary by HOA, so it’s important to ask your HOA’s board of directors what the restrictions are in your community. Some of the most common include:
- Ensuring solar panels are as out of sight as possible
- Limiting placement of solar panels on your roof
- Mandating that all electrical wiring be hidden
- Banning ground-mounted solar panels
- Requiring equipment to match the color of the roof
Why Do HOA’s Hate Solar Panels?
Homeowners Associations are responsible for maintaining the quality of their community and its property values. They restrict solar panel installations for the same reasons they restrict other exterior modifications and design choices. But, when it comes to solar panels, a lot of their concerns are unfounded, at least when you choose us to install your panels.
Aesthetic Concerns
Most HOAs want to ensure that the homes in their community maintain a consistent appearance and strong curb appeal, and they worry that solar panels will detract from that. This isn’t unique to HOAs—a lot of homeowners worry about the aesthetics of their solar installation. We understand these concerns, which is why we go above and beyond to design solar energy systems that blend into the home’s existing architecture. In many cases, we can even install them so that they’re barely (if at all) visible from the road.
Perceived Impact on Property Values
Research has shown that solar panels increase property value in many cases. However, not all HOAs are convinced by the facts. Some still worry that solar panels will deter potential home buyers or reduce property values by making the neighborhood appear “industrial” or less cohesive.
Concerns About Installation
HOAs may worry about roof damage or improper installations, especially in condos and other communities with attached homes. This is a valid concern—improper solar installation can damage your roof, which is a huge problem if you share your roof with a neighbor. To protect your home and roof from damage, we take great care during installation. Our installers are all in-house employees trained by us (never subcontractors) and we follow all best practices for proper solar panel installation.
Steps to Going Solar with an HOA
If you have an HOA and you want to go solar, your HOA might try to stop you (even though they aren’t legally allowed to). Knowing how to navigate the situation will help you approach your board of directors calmly and armed with the facts so installation can move forward without delay.
1. Know the Law
The easiest way to push back if your HOA tries to deny your solar installation request? Show them the law! You can (politely but firmly) let your HOA know that they don’t have legal authority to deny your solar installation, thanks to Arizona Revised Statute 33-1816.
2. Hire a Professional Solar Installer
If you’re worried about your HOA denying solar panels, you don’t want to work with a shoddy installer or attempt a DIY installation. You need an installer, like SouthFace Solar & Electric, who can easily obtain permits and provide a detailed project proposal to ease your HOAs concerns and help your installation move forward smoothly.
3. Be Open to Compromises
Your HOA can’t ban solar panels, but they have the right to restrict placement. Because of this, you might have to compromise on your system’s design and installation. With us at your disposal, you won’t have to worry about the impact on your solar output. We will install high-efficiency solar equipment in the most optimal, approved roof space to ensure you’re able to maximize your solar output.
Going Solar with an HOA? We Can Help
Some HOAs remain resistant to solar installations, but attitudes are shifting. Most HOAs are reasonable and will work with you to come to an installation agreement that satisfies their restrictions while ensuring you’re still able to install your solar system.
SouthFace Solar & Electric can help make sure your solar installation moves forward seamlessly. We install high-quality, custom solar energy systems that are designed to blend into your home’s roof. We’ll follow your HOA’s guidelines to design a system that meets their standards without sacrificing performance, and we’ll provide all documentation necessary to ensure a smooth process.
