Solar panels and roof repairs

[Jacqueline2708]

Ten years ago I allowed a company to install solar panels on my roof in a 25 year long contract. I would never own these but I would benefit from the electricity and excess would go go to the grid. My roof was in sound condition and the solar installed. Now my roof is in a terrible state, partly I think because of pigeons nesting underneath them. It’s been such a terrible mistake and one I really and truly regret.
From what I gather the company is notoriously awful to deal with and take no responsibility for any damage or scaffolding though they will be demanding a £1000 upfront deposit for their electricians.
I don’t expect the company to admit any liability for damage but I just need my roof and all the timbers replaced. I’m absolutely dreading getting quotes as I will have to take a loan out to cover repairs. I struggle with workmen, I struggle with these companies who act like bullies.
Im not sure what I’m trying to ask here, has anyone experience of these types of company?
Also what would happen if I refused to let them put them back? There still 15 years left in this awful scheme.

What does your contract say?

Thank you for taking time to comment BlondiePortz I have searched all the paperwork I was left with and I don’t see a contract as such. The closest is a Home Improvement Notification which states it’s a government backed scheme and that the panels are covenanted to the property for 25 years.

You were stitched up OP, sorry.

Without a contract stating who is responsible for the cost of removing and reinstalling the panels, the bill falls to you.

You will find it virtually impossible to get any company other than the one that installed the panels to do the work. And the installation company (if they still exixy) will probably charge you thousands to do the work because they know you can't go to anyone else.

Contact your installer first, see what they are willing to do, then get some quotes for the roof, but be explicit that the panels will be completely removed first, no roofer will quote you if any solar hardware remains in place.

It sounds like it will probably be worth asking them to fit bird nets over the panels when they put them back up - to stop pigeons getting underneath in future.

Which company? Are you sure there isn’t a lease for the 25 years?

I have a feeling this is the same company that I have mine with! They want £1500 to put netting round to stop the pigeons! We want them removed & they won't remove them! My son has bird mites in his room from them nesting under the panels!