Edmonton solar companies have seen a growing number of homebuyers asking what to look for when purchasing a property with existing solar panels.
While solar power can deliver lower energy bills, protection from rising rates, and added resale value, it can also introduce complications if the system hasn’t been properly maintained or if ownership is unclear.
MAG Solar contractors know that the condition of the panels, the financing arrangements, and the installer’s reputation determine whether the system is a benefit or a burden. That’s why reviewing these factors is essential before closing the deal.
Key Takeaways:
- Outright-owned solar panels add home value, while leased or financed systems can complicate sales and mortgages.
- Panels last 25–30 years, but inverters (10 years) and batteries (8–20 years) often require earlier replacement.
- Assess the roof condition, installer reputation, and transferable warranties, as these directly affect long-term reliability and cost savings.
Ownership and Financing of the Solar System
The very first question to ask is who owns the panels. A solar panel installation can fall under three categories:
Owned Outright (Cash Purchase)
Best-case scenario. Panels are included with the home, electricity savings start immediately, and no extra contracts follow you. The main caveat is warranty transfer and some warranties only cover the original purchaser.
Financed With a Loan
Manageable, but check for any liens (such as UCC-1 filings or PACE loans). A solar loan tied to the property can complicate mortgages since lenders may consider the solar loan equal or higher priority than the home loan.
Leased or Under a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)
The most complex option. In this case, you don’t own the panels; a solar company does. You’d take over a long-term contract with escalating payments and limited benefits. Leased panels are not worth the headache unless the seller buys out the lease.
Thinking about buying a home in Edmonton with solar panels? Make sure you know the facts before you commit.
Age and Expected Lifetime of the Solar Panel Installation
Solar panels are engineered for long service lives. Ask for documentation of the system’s installation year, original efficiency rating, and maintenance or replacement history.
- Life Span: 25–30 years, with a gradual efficiency decline of ~0.5–1% annually.
- Economic Reality: Some homeowners replace panels as early as 7–12 years in, because newer models are more efficient and cost-effective.
Condition of the Roof and Mounting (Post-Installation Process)
Solar panels are only as secure as the roof beneath them. A new roof with solar is a plus, but an aging roof can become a liability.
- Roof Age: If the roof is due for replacement soon, budget for panel removal and reinstallation. This can be a costly process.
- Mounting system: Check whether racking and flashing were installed by a certified contractor. Poor workmanship can cause leaks or structural issues.
System Components Beyond the Solar PV Panels
A photovoltaic (PV) system comprises more than just solar installed on the roof. Evaluate the other components for a sustainable future and potential savings. Inverters, considered the weakest link, typically come with only about 10 years’ warranties, much shorter than the panels’ lifespan.
If the inverters are original to a system over a decade old, anticipate the need for replacement soon. If included in the system, energy storage is another factor to assess. The type and age of the batteries matter significantly. Lithium-ion batteries last 15 to 20 years, whereas lead-acid systems may have a lifespan of only around eight years
Performance and Testing Data
Do not rely only on the seller’s claims. Ask for hard data.
Past Utility Bills | Reveal real-world production, energy usage, and savings. |
Monitoring System Reports | Many systems track generation via apps or online dashboards. |
Professional Inspection | Advanced tests like electroluminescence imaging, I-V curve measurement, or thermal imaging can reveal cracked cells, hot spots, or hidden electrical failures. |
Incentives and Transferability
Be clear on what you will and won’t inherit.
- You do NOT get the federal or provincial rebates/tax credits the original owner claimed.
- You CAN benefit from ongoing net metering with your utility (e.g., EPCOR or Fortis Alberta), as long as you set up the account under your name.
- Warranties: Some manufacturers allow transfer, others don’t. Clarify this upfront.
The Reputation of Edmonton Installation Crew
An unverified or now-defunct installer can make warranty claims and technical support difficult. Always ask which company installed the system.
- Are they still in business?
- Do they have good customer reviews?
- Were they certified installers (e.g., CSA or NABCEP equivalent in Canada)?
Unsure Between Keeping or Installing Solar Panels? Ask One of the Best Edmonton Solar Companies
Buying a home with solar panels in Edmonton can be a fantastic investment if you know what you’re getting. Ownership structure, system age, component health, and warranties directly affect whether those panels save money or cost you headaches.
Have our MAG Solar project manager or professional solar technician review the system before purchasing. This helps you understand warranty transfer, installation costs, and whether the system aligns with your personal energy needs. Expert solar services can make the entire process seamless.
