Solar panels damaged after a hailstorm: what to do?

Hailstorms can crack solar panel glass, dent frames, and damage wiring or mounting hardware. Even if the panels look intact from the ground, hidden micro-cracks or compromised seals can reduce performance or create shock hazards. The system may still be energized, so safety comes first.

What is happening

Solar panels are designed to withstand some hail, but large stones or high-speed impacts can break the tempered glass cover. Damage may not be obvious: hairline cracks, shattered glass, bent frames, or loose junction boxes can all affect safety and output. Inverters and rooftop wiring can also be harmed. Your system may continue to produce electricity even with broken panels, which means live DC voltage is still present.

Emergency warning

If you see sparks, arcing, smoke, or a burning smell, or if anyone is shocked or injured, call local emergency services immediately. Do not approach the array or touch any part of the system. Keep everyone away and wait for professional help.

What to do first

1. Stay off the roof. Never climb up to inspect panels yourself, especially after a storm when surfaces are wet and unstable.
2. Keep people and pets away from the area below damaged panels. Broken glass and hanging wires are dangerous.
3. Do not touch exposed wiring, junction boxes, or broken glass. Treat all solar equipment as live.
4. If you can do so safely, shut down the system only if your installer has shown you how and it is safe to reach the disconnect. If in doubt, leave it alone.
5. Call your solar installer or a licensed solar electrician to inspect and make the system safe. If you smell smoke or see fire, call emergency services first.
6. Document the damage with photos and video taken from the ground. Note the date and time of the storm and any changes in system performance (for example, a sudden drop shown in your monitoring app).
7. Contact your homeowner's insurance company to report the damage and ask about next steps for a claim.

What NOT to do

• Do not walk on or touch damaged panels, even if they appear switched off.
• Do not try to remove broken glass or straighten bent frames yourself.
• Do not hose down or wash the array; water and live electrical parts are a lethal combination.
• Do not cover panels with a tarp or plastic without professional advice, as this can trap heat or create a shock risk.
• Do not sign any repair contract or accept a door-to-door offer before your insurer has assessed the damage.

When to seek professional help

Call a licensed solar professional for any visible damage, unusual noises, error messages on the inverter, or a drop in energy production. If you are unsure whether the system is safe, treat it as unsafe and call for help. Do not wait for a scheduled maintenance visit if you suspect electrical damage.

What to monitor

Check your monitoring app or inverter display for sudden output drops, error codes, or offline status. Watch for signs of water intrusion, loose wiring, or unusual heat around the inverter. Report any changes to your installer.

How to prevent future damage

Ask your installer about hail-resistant panel models and proper mounting. Keep trees trimmed to reduce flying debris. After any severe storm, schedule a professional inspection, especially if you notice performance changes. Regular maintenance can catch small issues before they become costly.

Act quickly but safely: keep away from damaged equipment, call a professional, and document everything for your insurance claim. Your safety and a proper assessment are the priority.