Rent-a-roof schemes frustration at banks

'just browsing'

Browsing around for any word on what the feed-in tariff's for new applicants might be reduced by, when the Government announces its report later this month, I came across this story of rent-a-roof schemes struggling to get 'signed off' by the banks, despite massive interest by housing associations and landlords.

Inside Housing reports that although deals have been agreed, many have not yet gone ahead due to possible banks being over cautious.

Understandably, those organisations and businesses are now eager to get their agreements underway before tariff cuts (due next April) for new installers, take effect.

The fear is if the April deadline is not met, then many schemes may not go ahead.

Read more here.

photo credit: jason

Selling a house with solar panels already installed

The housing market is certainly adapting to the latest home improvement - solar panels.

At least where conveyancing and the solicitors are concerned.

A colleague was intrigued to see a whole section dedicated to renewables that may be installed on the property you're selling.

That's fine if you own the panels outright - they'd be a great selling feature with their promise of cheaper energy and earnings from the feed-in tariff.

But what if the panels are part of a 'free-installation' scheme? You've potentially rented your roof out to a tenant, who'll have certain rights of access for maintenance etc (you'd think anyway).

Anyone have any experience of selling their home that had a free solar installation on the roof. Did it complicate the sale, did it put a potential buyer off? We'd love to hear your views in our comments section below.

photo credit: thomas guest