"Had a similar issue on one of our properties where the installer rushed through sealing the mounts... ended up with leaks after just a few months."
Yeah, totally agree with this. Had a neighbor who went through something similar—panels were fine, but the installer skimped on waterproofing around the mounts. Ended up with water stains on their ceiling after the first heavy rain. Once they got someone who actually took their time and knew what they were doing, no more issues. Definitely worth spending extra time finding someone reliable rather than worrying too much about the panels themselves.
Had a similar experience myself—installer was a nice enough guy, but clearly had somewhere else to be that day. Couple months later, I'm staring at a suspicious brown spot on my ceiling thinking, "Hmm, pretty sure that's not supposed to be there..." Ended up having to redo the flashing and sealant around the mounts. Lesson learned: the panels rarely cause trouble, it's usually the rushed installation. Like you said:
"Definitely worth spending extra time finding someone reliable rather than worrying too much about the panels themselves."
Couldn't agree more.
Had a similar issue come up during an inspection last year. Homeowner had brand-new solar panels installed, and within weeks noticed water stains forming near the attic hatch. Turns out the installer rushed through sealing around the mounts—classic mistake. If you're getting panels, make sure to double-check the flashing and sealant yourself afterward...a few extra minutes poking around can save you from headaches down the road.
Had a similar thing happen at one of the properties I manage. Owner was super excited about going green, got panels installed, and boom—first heavy rainstorm, tenant calls me up saying there's a mini waterfall in the attic. Turns out the installers skipped proper flashing altogether (seriously?). Definitely agree it's worth poking around yourself afterward...or at least getting someone you trust to double-check. Roof leaks are sneaky little devils, and solar panels seem to give them extra hiding spots.
"Roof leaks are sneaky little devils, and solar panels seem to give them extra hiding spots."
Couldn't agree more. I've seen installations where the mounting brackets weren't sealed properly—water intrusion waiting to happen. Proper flashing and sealant application are critical; installers cutting corners is unfortunately common. Always worth a second look afterward...
