What Happens to Your Solar Panels When You Sell Your House?

If you have installed solar panels on your home, you may wonder what happens to them when it comes time to sell. Do they stay with the property? Do they increase the value of your home? Can you take them with you? In most cases in Ireland, solar panels are treated as part of the property and can become a valuable selling point when marketed correctly.

This guide explains how solar panels affect home sales, legal considerations, valuation, and how to maximise their appeal to buyers.

Do Solar Panels Stay with the House?

In most Irish property sales, rooftop solar panels are considered fixtures and fittings, meaning they are usually included in the sale unless specifically excluded in the contract. Because panels are mounted to the roof structure and connected to the home’s electrical system, removing them can be costly and may cause damage.

Most buyers also expect solar systems to remain in place, especially when they are fully commissioned and operational.

If you are planning a new installation, our guide What Types of Properties Are Best Suited for Solar in Ireland? explains how system design affects long term property suitability.

Do Solar Panels Increase Property Value?

Yes, in many cases solar panels can increase the attractiveness and value of a home. Buyers are increasingly conscious of energy costs and sustainability, and a functioning solar system can be a major selling feature.

According to research from the U.S. National Renewable Energy Laboratory, homes with solar systems typically sell for more than comparable properties without solar installations. This study highlights how energy savings and long term cost reductions influence buyer behaviour.

While this research is international, similar trends are emerging in Ireland as energy awareness continues to grow.

What Documentation Should You Provide?

When selling a home with solar panels, having proper documentation helps reassure buyers and solicitors. You should provide:

• Installation certificates and commissioning records
• Warranty documentation for panels and inverters
• Maintenance and service history
• Export payment registration details
• Any SEAI grant approval documents

Clear paperwork reduces delays and improves buyer confidence.

If you are unsure how system lifespan affects resale value, see Solar Panel Degradation: What to Expect Over 25 Years in Ireland.

What About Export Payments and Energy Credits?

When ownership changes, export payment arrangements usually need to be updated. The new homeowner must register with their electricity supplier to receive Clean Export Guarantee payments.

You should inform your supplier of the change of ownership and provide meter details as part of the sale process.

For a full overview, read Solar Export Payments in Ireland: A Complete 2026 Guide to Earning from Excess Energy Generation.

Can You Take Your Solar Panels With You?

Technically, solar panels can be removed, but this is rarely practical. Removal involves:

• Dismantling roof mounting systems
• Disconnecting electrical wiring
• Repairing roof tiles and membranes
• Reinstalling and recommissioning at a new property

The cost and risk often outweigh the benefits. In most cases, it makes more sense to leave the system in place and factor its value into the sale price.

What If the System Is Old or Underperforming?

Older systems may still add value if they are functioning properly, but buyers may ask questions about:

• Remaining warranty coverage
• Expected future output
• Upgrade potential
• Inverter replacement history

If performance is declining, consider having a system check before listing your property. A professional report can help reassure buyers.

Our article How to Monitor Your Solar Performance Like a Pro explains how to assess system health.

Legal and Survey Considerations

During the conveyancing and survey process, solar panels are usually noted in:

• Building surveys
• BER assessments
• Electrical safety checks

Surveyors may inspect mounting systems, roof penetrations, and inverter installations. Any defects may need to be addressed before contracts are finalised.

If you are installing solar on a recently renovated or extended property, Solar Panels and Irish Building Regulations: What’s Allowed in 2025? provides useful context.

How to Maximise Solar Value When Selling

To get the best return from your solar investment:

Keep Your System Well Maintained

Regular servicing and performance monitoring help ensure the system is working optimally when buyers view the property.

Highlight Annual Savings

Provide recent electricity bills and export payment records to show real financial benefits.

Explain System Features

Buyers may not be familiar with solar technology. A simple overview of how the system works, including battery storage if fitted, can increase confidence.

Ensure Clean Presentation

Clean panels, tidy cabling, and organised inverter areas make a strong impression during viewings.

For homeowners planning upgrades before selling, Should You Oversize Your Solar System? Pros and Cons may help guide investment decisions.

Final Thoughts

In most cases, solar panels stay with the house when you sell and can be a valuable asset that improves market appeal and energy performance. By keeping good records, maintaining your system, and clearly communicating its benefits, you can turn your solar investment into a strong selling point.

If you are considering installing solar before selling or want advice on maximising resale value, WattCharger can design and install high quality systems that appeal to modern buyers and deliver long term returns.