The latest change in the differentiation guide for e-crafts provides clarity: Roofers are taking over the installation of photovoltaic systems on the roof, electricians remain responsible for the electrical installation. What does this mean specifically for you as a plant operator or craftsman? In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about responsibilities for PV installation.

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What is the differentiation guide for e-crafts?

The delimitation guide for e-crafts clearly regulates what work electricians and roofers may take on when installing photovoltaic systems. It determines who is responsible for mechanical installation on the roof and who is responsible for electrical connections. This is intended to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts between the two trades.

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What changes are being made in the differentiation guide?

What is new in the delimitation guide is that the previous clause is deleted, according to which the mere installation of photovoltaic systems (PV) without interference with the roof or façade construction was classified as “not a trade in the Crafts Code”. Until now, pure PV installation was therefore considered a “minor craft” that could be carried out without proof of qualification.

This previous classification meant that many assembly work was carried out by companies without proven technical qualifications. This resulted in quality deficiencies and safety problems when installing solar systems.

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How does the change affect the installation of solar systems?

As a result of the new regulation, it is now no longer possible to offer PV installations without the corresponding qualification certificate. In this way, the legislator ensures that only qualified specialists will carry out installation work on PV systems in the future. This decision is intended to Significantly increase the quality of installation and Minimize potential risks for building owners.

At the same time, cooperation between roofers and electricians is being regulated more clearly. Roofers carry out all installation work on the roof, and electricians continue to take care of the electrical components of the PV system.

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Who is now allowed to install photovoltaic systems — electricians or roofers?

Both roofers and electricians may continue to install photovoltaic systems, but only in their clearly defined areas of responsibility.

• roofer Are clear in future for the mechanical installation of solar modules on the roof as well as responsible for integration and sealing.
• electricians Only the electrical work, including cabling, installation of inverters and battery storage systems, and connection to the power grid.

Both systems therefore complement each other when installing the photovoltaic system. The following is an overview of the responsibility:

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How does the change affect the installation of solar systems?

The new allocation of PV installation to the roofing trade creates clear advantages for homeowners and ensures that your photovoltaic system works safely, reliably and efficiently in the long term.

• Early inspection of roof statics: Even before installation, roofers check whether the roof can bear the additional loads caused by solar panels. In this way, you avoid having to dismantle an already installed photovoltaic system later because the roof is not sufficiently load-bearing.
• Preventing moisture damage: Qualified roofers professionally fix the PV modules and tailor mounting systems precisely to the existing roof covering. This prevents damage to the roof tiles and subsequent penetration of moisture.
• Protection against storm damage: Roofers professionally install PV modules with storm clips and secure them against wind suction. This ensures that the system remains firmly and securely on the roof even in extreme weather conditions.
• Building physics expertise: Roofers assess the structural condition of the roof and identify whether additional renovation work is necessary before PV installation. As a result, you save costs and avoid duplicate work steps.
• Clear liability situation: As a result of the clear attribution to the competence of roofers, it is clearly regulated who is liable in the event of damage. For you, this means less legal uncertainty and lower risk.
• Long-term quality assurance: As a result of the qualification requirement, installation quality increases permanently. In the long term, you benefit from a safer system, fewer repairs and higher returns.

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Are there higher costs as a result of the change?

As a rule, the change does not result in any higher costs for you. It is true that only qualified roofers will be approved for installation in the future, meaning that higher installation prices would be possible in the short term. However, you avoid follow-up costs in the long term, as assembly errors and damage due to improper installation are eliminated. In addition, the clear division of duties between roofers and electricians saves time and prevents costly rework. Overall, you therefore benefit financially from a professional and long-lasting installation.

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Do existing systems have to be reviewed?

Existing systems do not have to be checked or retrofitted due to the new regulation. The change in the differentiation guide only concerns new installations. Your existing photovoltaic system is protected and remains in operation unchanged. The new requirements will then only apply to future expansions or modifications.

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