Vivint Solar on Multi Unit property - 4plex

[Steve Graves]

Talking with Vivint solar right now about installing solar for all of my 4plex units. Talked to my insurance company and they don't seem too confident with me doing this. They have concerns about who takes care of any unforeseen damage that it could cause to the property such as wind, snow and other things out of my control. The payments go up 2.9% every year and it seems that it wouldn't be fair to my tenants but power from So Cal Edison goes up every year too.

What are your experiences with adding solar to a rental property? Good or bad?

[Stefan Pougatchev]

Hi Steve, 

My name is Stefan, I'm a new member to biggerpockets and was scrolling the forums and saw your post. I have worked in the solar industry for about 3 years as an engineer. First starting out with a residential company in NY and now for larger company focusing on commercial and industrial projects in LA.  

Few questions/advice I have right off the back: 

1. Where are your rental properties located (this will help me with snow and weather related concerns) ?

2. Most racking (roof attachments) that solar companies use are from manufactures that have been UL tested/certified. A lot of these manufactures also do their own testing to withstand certain wind speeds, snow loads, etc..   You can easily have Vivint solar obtain a letter with a professional engineer stamp showing the maximum wind speeds the racking can handle. 

3. What are are the specific concerns your insurance company is worried about?

4. You might be able to get the solar company to have a local professional engineer provide a letter to the insurance company regarding other concerns they may have. For example how much weight your roof can hold and how much solar can be installed considering factors such as snow loads. This type of report is typically called a "solar structural feasibility report". 

5. Most insurance companies are hesitant to include solar because they are just not familiar with it. A well designed system, that is reviewed and stamped by a local professional engineer should be able to last on your roof for at least 25-30 years without any issues mechanically. 

6. I do recommend re-roofing your roof if its over 8-10 years old. The solar federal tax incentive will consider your re-roof part of the solar project if you choose to go solar so you can receive a 30% tax credit on that work as well. Ask Vivint solar, they would be able to tell you. 

7. Lastly I'm glad to see your considering solar. Its a great investment and probably a good selling point for new tenants!!!

I hope this helps!!! If you have anymore questions I'll be glad to answer them. 

Best - Stefan