Are Solar Panels HOA Approved 

Solar panels offer many benefits and are being installed on more properties by homeowners. However, solar panels may not be allowed in HOA communities. This is everything homeowners and board members need to know about HOA solar panel.

 1. How To Have Solar Panels In An HOA Community?   

Property additions and alterations can be difficult for anyone who has lived in an HOA community. The primary purpose of homeowner associations is to protect and improve property values. They do this by ensuring homeowners adhere to certain rules and regulations.

The Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs) of a community will outline the rights and obligations of homeowners and associations. This document also includes restrictive covenants. Restrictive covenants, which are legal agreements that prohibit homeowners from taking a particular action, are not something most people are aware of.

The exterior appearance of homeowners’ property is one of the most common restrictions in an HOA community. An association might prohibit homeowners from painting their homes a certain color. Covenants may also restrict the addition or modification of exterior structures. This includes fences and pools.

What about solar panels? Is it possible for an HOA to restrict solar panels? It is not easy to say yes or no. It all depends on where you are located and what laws apply. You must first review the state laws to determine if your HOA has the right to restrict solar panels within your community. Next, read your governing documents.

Solar Access Laws  

These laws prevent associations from preventing homeowners from installing solar panels on their property. These laws allow HOAs to place reasonable restrictions on the design, installation, and placement of solar panels. Usually, homeowners still need to apply for permission to install solar panels. This is usually done after an approval and application process.

What states have solar access rights California’s Solar Rights Act, and Civil Code Section 714.1 both protect homeowners’ rights to generate solar energy. Similar laws exist in Texas, as shown in Texas Property Code. 202. Florida and Arizona are just a few examples of states with solar access rights laws. You should check the laws of your state regarding solar access rights. They can differ from one another, so it is important to verify your state’s laws.

Solar Easements  

These easements are voluntary agreements that homeowners negotiate and then enter into with their neighbors or homeowner association. Certain restrictions and requirements are required to ensure that the homeowner’s solar panels get enough sunlight. The easement might require neighbors to trim their trees and prevent them from building structures that could block the sun’s rays.

 2. Benefits Of Installing Residential Solar Panels   

The topic of solar panel installations has been a hot topic for homeowners for many years. It is generally agreed that solar panels can help homeowners in Texas save money. But is it worth the cost?

Lower Energy Bills  

Your household can get enough electricity from solar panels to power half of its electricity needs reducing the complete dependence on Reliant Energy. Conduct a home efficiency audit to determine if your house is in need of better insulation or if any windows and doors are open.

No Worry About Price Hikes  

Utility companies have the luxury to raise their prices without accountability. People need electricity to run their businesses and homes. This is why regardless of rising costs and stagnating incomes people simply go with it because there’s no other option. Solar panels offer you an alternative, a much better option.

Tax Incentives  

The federal government created a tax credit for renewable energy in 2015. It allows homeowners to claim a credit of up to 30% on the cost of a solar energy system. This credit is available as long as the property is being used as a residence. This credit is unlimited and may not exceed your tax liability for the year. However, the excess can be carried forward to the next year.

Increased Home Value  

Texas residents will see a $3.00 increase in home value by installing solar panels. The quality of the panels you choose will determine how much this increases.

Reduce Your Carbon Footprint  

To generate electricity, traditional electricity relies on fossil fuels and coal. These fuels produce extremely toxic gases when they are burned to generate electricity. This is one of the main contributors to air and water pollution, land degradation, and many other health conditions such as cancer and respiratory disease. You can help reduce environmental toxicity by installing solar panels.

 Bottom Line 

Although many homeowners associations are open-minded to solar systems, some aren’t. When you are talking to your HOA about solar, keep these things in mind. Keep in mind that they cannot refuse solar. If you’re a Texas resident and you’ve been thinking about installing solar energy panels, don’t hesitate to contact the best solar companies in your area.