Solar warranties explained: panels, inverters and workmanship

Warranties are where a cheap system and a good one often differ, and you won’t see the difference until something fails. It pays to know what each warranty covers and who stands behind it before you sign.

The warranties that come with a solar system

Solar Victoria’s guide to solar warranties says any high-quality panel should still produce at least 80% of its original rating after 25 years, and a good inverter should last at least 10 years if installed properly.

Your consumer guarantees come first

Manufacturer and installer warranties are extras. Under the Australian Consumer Law, products must also be fit for purpose and of acceptable quality. The ACCC explains what happens when a consumer guarantee isn’t met:

• Major failure: you choose a refund, or a repair or replacement. Examples include a product that can’t be fixed, or one that’s unsafe.
• Minor failure: the business chooses whether to repair, replace or refund, and must do it within a reasonable time.

Start with the business that sold you the system. Tell them clearly what you need the system to do when you get quotes, because fitness for purpose is judged against that.

Who stands behind the warranty

• The importer. Under the Australian Consumer Law, importers are responsible for manufacturers’ warranties. Find out who the importer is: sending panels back to the country of manufacture isn’t practical.
• A local contact. Solar Victoria suggests checking that manufacturers have an Australian contact number and a clear claims process.
• Insurance. Some manufacturers back their warranty with prepaid insurance, so it’s honoured even if they go out of business. If insurance is paid year by year instead, it may lapse if the company fails.
• Your installer. Ask whether the installer or retailer will help you claim on a manufacturer’s warranty if a major component fails.

How to make a warranty claim

1. Check the inverter display or monitoring app, and note any error codes, dates and output figures.
2. Contact the business that sold you the system, in writing, with your invoice and the details.
3. If they don’t help, contact the manufacturer or importer directly.
4. If it still isn’t resolved, contact your state consumer protection agency. Customers of New Energy Tech Consumer Code Approved Sellers can also lodge a complaint under the Code.

What to ask before you buy

• How long is each warranty, and what does it exclude?
• Who do I contact to claim: you, the manufacturer or the importer?
• Is there an Australian office or phone number?
• Is the warranty backed by insurance if the manufacturer fails?
• How long is your workmanship warranty?

Our questions to ask before you sign a solar or battery quote cover warranties alongside price, accreditation and installation.

This guide is general information, not financial or legal advice. Rules, rebates and prices change, so check the linked sources before you decide. Facts checked 18 October 2026.