Solar, Inverters and Backup Power in Sectional Title Living: What the Law Allows

Why Backup Power Needs Approval

In a free-standing house, solar or an inverter is your decision. In a sectional title scheme, your installation can affect neighbours, common property and safety. That is why Section 13(1)(g) of the Sectional Titles Act requires trustee consent for any alteration that affects structure or common property.

Most backup systems involve:

• Structural changes

• Roof space

• DB board alterations

• External cabling

So approval is legally required, not optional.

Common Property and PMR 29 and 30

Solar panels, exterior batteries and communal systems fall under Prescribed Management Rules 29 and 30. These rules state that some improvements need trustee approval while others need a special resolution of owners. Solar almost always requires owner approval because it affects the building appearance, insurance and long term maintenance.

Insurance Cannot Be Ignored

A non-compliant installation can void both personal and Body Corporate insurance. Insurers usually require:

• A valid CoC

• Accredited installers

• Proof of trustee approval

• Confirmation that the system does not create fire or overload risks

Backup power must make the scheme safer, not riskier.

What Usually Works Without Conflict

Owners can often use:

• Portable inverters inside the unit

• Plug-and-play systems that do not alter wiring

• Interior battery units not mounted on external walls

These options do not change structure or common property, so they avoid most disputes.

What Often Gets Rejected

Trustees commonly say no when an installation:

• Affects the roof

• Alters the building exterior

• Requires structural drilling

• Uses unaccredited contractors

• Poses fire or surge risk

• Interferes with shared electrical supply

This is not trustees being difficult. They carry legal risk for unsafe or non-compliant installations.

Cenprop’s Role

Cenprop helps owners and trustees by:

• Reviewing proposals

• Checking legal and insurance compliance

• Ensuring accredited contractors are used

• Guiding approval processes

• Reducing conflict between neighbours

Owners want power. Trustees want safety. We help both meet in the middle.

Final Thoughts

Backup power is a necessity, but in sectional title living it must be done correctly. The law protects the building, the insurance and the community. With the right process, schemes can approve safe, modern and compliant energy solutions.

Cenprop is here to help you keep the lights on in the safest and most responsible way.