Maintaining your power: a guide to solar panel and battery backup system maintenance in sectional title schemes

As solar and battery systems become more common in South African complexes, flats and estates, one question often arises: Who is responsible for keeping it all running smoothly?

While solar power offers a cleaner, more reliable, cost-effective energy alternative, it’s not a “set it and forget it” solution. Ongoing maintenance is essential to keep your system operating efficiently, and in a sectional title scheme, clarity around maintenance responsibilities is just as important as the maintenance itself.

In most schemes, the body corporate is responsible for maintaining common property, which includes shared roofs and carports where solar panels might be installed. But what if the system is installed in an exclusive use area (EUA), like a carport or balcony assigned to a specific unit?

In that case, the unit owner is generally responsible for maintaining the system and any associated costs — unless otherwise stated in the scheme’s conduct rules.

To avoid confusion or disputes down the line, clear agreements and updated conduct rules are essential. These should define:

• Responsibility for maintenance and repairs
• Process for obtaining resolutions (such as special resolutions for EUA assignments)
• Whether owners or the body corporate are liable for insurance and replacement costs

• Solar panels
  • Keep them clean: Dirt, dust, and leaves can reduce panel efficiency, so keeping panels clean ensures maximum performance. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
  • How often? It depends on your location. In dry or dusty areas, consider cleaning more frequently. An annual professional cleaning and inspection is recommended to identify any areas of concern
  • Watch for shade or damage: Overhanging branches, bird droppings, or even new construction nearby can affect performance.

• Batteries
  • Cool, dry storage: Batteries should be housed in well-ventilated, temperature-controlled areas.
  • Regular inspections: Check for signs of corrosion, swelling, or performance drops. Clean and dust the battery area as needed.
  • Performance monitoring: Use available software or monitoring tools to track battery health and charge/discharge cycles.

• Inverters
  • Keep it clean and dry: Wipe the exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid water or cleaning agents.
  • Check the display or app: Many inverters provide alerts for system errors — don’t ignore them!

To formally assign an exclusive use area for solar equipment, a special resolution is required — meaning at least 75% of owners (in both number and value) must vote in favour.

Conduct rules should clearly outline:

• Who maintains solar installations in EUAs?
• Whether any contributions are payable to the body corporate for ongoing costs.
• Who insures the panels and batteries?
• What happens when systems need replacing?

Remember that well-crafted rules now, mean fewer headaches in the future.

Sectional Title Solutions (STS), in partnership with Bright Light, offers complexes, estates and blocks of flats a seamless path to solar — from installation and financing to ongoing support and maintenance.

Our solutions include:

• Professional maintenance and monitoring
• Real-time usage and performance reporting
• No upfront costs for owners through Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)
• Clarity on roles and responsibilities in conduct rules

Maintenance isn’t just about keeping the lights on — it’s about protecting your investment and ensuring your community benefits from clean, reliable energy for years to come.

Whether your scheme is planning a solar upgrade or already enjoying the benefits, STS is here to help you stay powered, protected, and future-ready.

Want to learn more about how solar works in your community scheme? Get in touch with us today!