For Apartment Complexes & Property Managers

Plug-In Solar Is Coming to Your Buildings. Here's How to Prepare.

25+ states are advancing legislation that gives tenants the right to install plug-in solar. Forward-thinking property managers are turning this into a competitive advantage — offering solar-ready units as a premium amenity.

25+
States with active bills
44M
US renters want solar access
$0
Cost to property (tenant-owned)
5–10%
Higher lease renewal rates

Why Property Managers Should Pay Attention

Plug-in solar legislation is advancing rapidly across the US. Whether you embrace it proactively or respond reactively, tenants will increasingly expect solar access. Here is why getting ahead of this trend benefits your properties.

Tenant Attraction & Retention

Sustainability is a top-3 amenity preference for renters under 40. Properties that allow plug-in solar differentiate themselves in competitive markets. Solar-ready units command attention in listings and reduce vacancy days.

Regulatory Preparedness

Utah already requires landlords to allow plug-in solar. California, New York, Colorado, and Virginia are advancing similar laws. Proactively creating a plug-in solar policy positions you ahead of likely mandates and avoids reactive scrambling.

Sustainability & ESG Goals

Tenant-owned plug-in solar contributes to building-level sustainability metrics at zero cost to the property. It supports LEED, ENERGY STAR, and Green Globes certifications. Some municipalities offer property tax incentives for facilitating renewable energy.

Building a Plug-In Solar Policy

A clear, well-structured policy protects your property while accommodating tenant demand. Here is a framework based on best practices from properties that have already implemented plug-in solar policies.

01

Safety Requirements

  • Require UL 3700 certification for all systems
  • Set a maximum wattage limit (1,200W–2,000W per unit)
  • Require systems to be plugged into standard 120V outlets only
  • Prohibit modifications to building electrical infrastructure
02

Installation Guidelines

  • Define approved mounting locations (balcony railing, patio, window)
  • Require non-permanent mounting methods (no drilling into building)
  • Set aesthetic guidelines if needed (panel color, visibility from common areas)
  • Require written notification before installation
03

Tenant Responsibilities

  • Tenant owns, installs, maintains, and removes the system
  • Tenant carries renter's insurance covering the system
  • Tenant is responsible for any damage from improper installation
  • System must be removed upon lease termination
04

Property Manager Commitments

  • Provide access to standard 120V outlets on balconies/patios
  • Do not unreasonably restrict qualifying systems
  • Maintain building electrical infrastructure to code
  • Respond to tenant solar requests within 14 business days

Implementation Approaches

Choose the approach that matches your portfolio's needs and your organization's readiness.

Permissive

Effort: Low

Allow tenants to install qualifying plug-in solar systems with minimal oversight. Best for properties in states with enacted legislation.

  • Create plug-in solar lease addendum
  • Require UL 3700 certification
  • Tenant self-installs
  • No property investment required

Solar-Ready

Effort: Medium

Proactively prepare units for plug-in solar. Market solar-ready units as a premium amenity. Best for competitive urban rental markets.

  • Install outdoor-rated outlets on balconies
  • Pre-approve mounting locations
  • Create tenant solar guide
  • Partner with local installer for discounts

Solar-Inclusive

Effort: High

Provide plug-in solar systems as a building amenity, included in rent or as an optional add-on. Best for luxury or sustainability-focused properties.

  • Property purchases and owns systems
  • Professional installation included
  • Monitoring and maintenance included
  • Premium rent offset ($25–$50/month)

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions from property managers and apartment complex owners about plug-in solar.

Portfolio Solar Assessment

Find Out Which of Your Properties Are Solar-Ready — Free

Our team will review your portfolio and identify which properties have the highest solar potential, flag any lease or liability considerations, and send you a prioritized action plan — no sales call required.

  • Free solar-readiness score for your portfolio
  • Lease addendum template (attorney-reviewed)
  • State-by-state tenant rights briefing for your markets

Request My Free Assessment

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Helps us tailor the assessment to your specific market

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