Solar Panel Fires and Injuries

Most solar systems operate safely, but faulty wiring, defective connectors, inverters, optimizers, and batteries, and poor installation can cause fires, electrical shocks, and serious injuries. Roof work also exposes installers to falls. Muggeo & Associates represents homeowners and injured people in solar-related fire, property damage, and injury claims.

Common Causes

Improperly installed or damaged wiring and connectors
Defective panels, inverters, optimizers, and rapid-shutdown equipment
Battery storage system failures
Arc faults and ground faults
Inadequate grounding and overcurrent protection
Rodent and weather damage that was not addressed during maintenance

Who May Be Responsible

Manufacturers of defective components (see Product Liability)
The installer and electrical subcontractors
Maintenance and monitoring companies
Distributors that sold recalled or defective equipment

Installer and Worker Injuries

Solar installers face fall, electrical, and heat hazards on rooftops. Injured workers generally have Workers’ Compensation claims and may have third-party claims against property owners, general contractors, or equipment manufacturers. See Construction Site Injuries.

Protect the Evidence

Call the fire department and your insurer.
Photograph everything before cleanup.
Do not let anyone remove panels, inverters, or batteries until the parties agree on an inspection protocol.
Send written preservation notices to the installer and manufacturer.
Keep monitoring data, which may show faults before the fire.

We represent homeowners, condominium owners, and businesses across the North Shore, including Salem, Peabody, Beverly, Lynn, Marblehead, Swampscott, Danvers, Gloucester, Newburyport, and communities throughout the North Shore and Massachusetts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is responsible if my solar panels caused a fire?

Depending on the cause, the installer, an electrician, the manufacturer of a panel, inverter, connector, or battery, or a maintenance company may be responsible. Fire investigators and electrical engineers are often needed to determine the origin and cause.

Should I let the solar company take the damaged equipment?

Not without advice. Damaged components are key evidence. Ask your insurer and a lawyer before anything is removed, and request that all parties preserve evidence.

What if a solar installer was hurt on my property?

Installers injured on the job usually have workers’ compensation claims against their employer and may have claims against other parties whose negligence contributed. Homeowners should notify their insurer promptly.

Are home batteries included?

Yes. Battery storage systems paired with solar can present fire and product defect issues. The same evidence preservation steps apply.

Talk With a Massachusetts Solar Dispute Attorney

If you have a fire or injury involving solar equipment, call Muggeo & Associates at (978) 741-1177, text the same number, or request a consultation online. We answer calls 24/7 and can be reached at jared@ljmassoc.com. Our office is at 133 Washington Street, Salem, Massachusetts. Bring your contract, financing documents, and any utility or monitoring statements.

This page provides general information, not legal advice. Laws and incentive programs change, and every situation is different. Contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee future outcomes. Last reviewed November 2026.

Call or Text (978) 741-1177 to Schedule Your Consultation