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Installation & Maintenance March 2026 5 min read

Guarantee for solar works: what to do in the event of a leak?

Editorial responsibility: Franck Tournier · Report a fix

TL;DR

In Switzerland, installation defects on a solar roof fall under construction law (CO) and contractual rules SIA 118. In the event of a leak or poor workmanship, the installer remains responsible according to the legal deadlines and the signed contract.

The legal framework in Switzerland

A solar installation on a roof is a construction work. In case of defect (infiltration, faulty fixing, poor sealing), the responsibility of the company is analyzed according to the signed contract, the Code of Obligations and, where applicable, SIA 118. The key point is to report the fault promptly and keep all technical evidence.

Payment, receipt and security hold

Avoid excessive deposits and plan for a final balance conditional on commissioning, electrical checks and acceptance of work. This withholding protects you if reserves appear just after installation.

Subcontracting and responsibilities

In the event of the intervention of several trades (roofer, electrician, PV integrator), require a clear distribution of responsibilities in the estimate. In practice, this clarity contractual greatly reduces disputes when a disaster occurs several months later the installation.

Frequently asked questions

Does the installer guarantee replace ECA insurance?+

No. Building insurance (ECA depending on the canton) mainly covers losses such as hail, fire or natural events. Installation, waterproofing or fixing defects are primarily the responsibility of the company which carried out the work.

My installer no longer responds: what can I do?+

Gather your estimate, invoice, commissioning report and photos of the damage. Send a written formal notice (registered mail), then contact your legal protection or a lawyer specializing in construction law. If subcontractors are involved, clearly identify who was responsible for the roofing.

Should I report the solar installation to my building insurer?+

Yes. A PV installation increases the insured value of the building. Declare it after commissioning to adapt your policy and avoid any dispute in the event of a future claim.

Sources & method

Swiss Code of Obligations (CO). SIA standard 118. Cantonal ECA/building insurance information.

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