Do solar panels damage your roof or cause leaks?
Properly installed solar panels do not damage your roof or cause leaks. MCS-certified installers use weatherproof mounting designed for your roof type, and the panels can even shelter the tiles beneath them. Problems are rare and almost always come from poor installation, which is why using a certified installer and keeping the workmanship warranty matters.
Why a good install protects the roof
- Mounting brackets fix to the rafters with weatherproof flashing.
- The roof structure is checked at survey to confirm it can take the load.
- Panels shield the covered tiles from weathering and UV.
- A workmanship warranty covers the integrity of the fixings.
Avoiding problems
Choose an MCS installer, ensure the survey confirms your roof is sound, and re-roof first if the roof is near the end of its life. With a competent install, the roof penetrations are properly sealed and the system lasts as long as the panels.
Frequently asked questions
- Can solar panels cause roof leaks?
- Very rarely, and almost always due to poor installation. A certified installer's weatherproof fixings and workmanship warranty protect against this.
- Should I re-roof before fitting solar?
- If the roof is near the end of its life, yes, so you do not have to remove and refit panels later.
Related questions
Indicative estimates based on UK average data. Last updated 27 May 2026.