Plug-in solar panel warning for landlords

Landlords could face new electrical, fire and insurance risks as plug-in solar panels begin to appear at rented homes.

Risk assessment specialist Riskstop says property owners must understand how the technology is installed and whether existing electrical systems can support it.

Plug-in photovoltaic (PV) solar panel systems have been legal to buy and use in the UK since 27 August 2026 following government changes.

Already used in parts of Europe, the smaller systems are designed to make solar power accessible to flats and properties unsuitable for conventional roof-mounted panels.

Electrical risks remain

The firm’s head of strategic planning, Johnny Thomson, said: “Unlike conventional roof-mounted PV systems, plug-in systems are designed to be installed by householders and connected directly to a standard electrical socket.

“They offer a relatively simple means of generating renewable electricity and may be particularly attractive to residents in flats, apartments, rental properties and homes unsuitable for traditional roof-mounted solar installations.”

He added: “Whilst plug-in PV systems are generally smaller than conventional solar installations, they should not be considered risk-free.

“They introduce many of the same electrical, fire and structural hazards associated with traditional PV systems, together with additional risks arising from user installation, product compliance, mounting arrangements and interaction with existing electrical circuits.”

How the systems work

Plug-in PV systems feed electricity through an existing socket circuit rather than being hard-wired into a property’s electrical distribution system.

Riskstop says the condition and suitability of the electrical installation, product compliance and the protection built into the equipment must all be assessed.

Although smaller systems are less complex than roof-mounted installations, they are still electrical generation equipment.

Landlords may also need to check whether the relevant network operator must be notified.

Checks landlords may face

Panels installed on balconies, walls, terraces and other external areas must be securely mounted against wind and bad weather.

Consent from the landlord or freeholder may be required, alongside any relevant planning permission and compliance with the insurer’s conditions.

Regular visual checks can identify damaged cables, deteriorating components, loose fixings and signs of overheating.

Riskstop says insurers and brokers will increasingly need details of what has been installed, where it has been positioned and how it is being managed.