June 12, 2025, 12:43 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
A balcony power plant brings green energy to your own balcony–but what happens if wind, fire, or a technical defect becomes an issue? And who pays if third parties are harmed? The answer depends on having the right insurance. myHOMEBOOK explains.
Balcony power plants are considered an easy way to generate your own electricity–but they are not as harmless as they seem when it comes to insurance. If a storm, short circuit, or even damage to people or buildings occurs, the question quickly arises: Who covers the costs? Not every insurance policy automatically covers all potential risks associated with balcony power plants. The key is what kind of damage occurs–and whether personal liability, household, or electronics insurance is responsible. An overview shows what operators should pay attention to.
Damage to People and Buildings–Does Personal Liability Apply?
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If a balcony power plant causes damage to people or buildings, personal liability insurance may step in. Many current policies already include such cases. Those who are unsure should inquire with their insurance company by phone–and get the information confirmed in writing.
Typically covered are:
- Damage to communal property or rental buildings, such as from a fall or fire,
- Personal injuries caused by the device,
- Claims for damages from third parties due to damage caused by the balcony power plant.
However, intentionally caused damage is not insured.
The Consumer Center of Rhineland-Palatinate also recommends asking the insurer whether damages caused by the operation of the system–such as to the home electrical installation–are covered.
Insurance Coverage for the Balcony Power Plant Itself
If the solar device itself is damaged–for example, by a storm or fire–household insurance may step in. According to the German Insurance Association (GDV), this is usually the case for policies from November 2023 onward. Again, check the contract terms or inquire with the insurer.
As part of the household contents, the following damages are covered:
- Hail damage
- Fire damage
- Damage from storms
- Overvoltage due to lightning strikes
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Damage to the Photovoltaic System
If the plug-in solar device itself is damaged, household insurance usually covers it. At least, according to the German Insurance Association (GDV), this is the case for policies from November 2023 onward. Again, checking the contract terms or calling the insurer can provide reassurance.
The Consumer Center of Rhineland-Palatinate recommends informing the household insurance about the installation of a balcony power plant and keeping the notification confirmation safe. As part of the household contents, the system is insured against such damages:
The Consumer Center of Rhineland-Palatinate also advises actively informing the insurance about the installed balcony power plant and keeping a notification confirmation.
In addition to household insurance, electronics insurance can also be useful. According to the Association of Insured, it also covers damages due to willful destruction by third parties, as well as:
- Operating errors
- Design flaws
- Material or execution errors
As with liability insurance, intentionally caused damages are generally not covered.
With material from dpa