The adoption of solar energy has surged across Australia, with many residential buildings and homes embracing the green revolution. However, amidst the enthusiasm for renewable energy, an often-overlooked concern lurks on rooftops – pest birds nesting beneath solar panels. Failure to address this issue adequately can lead to a myriad of problems, from fire hazards to costly maintenance. Here are five common mistakes when body corporates neglect pest bird prevention around solar panels. 

1. Underestimating the Risk: One of the most common mistakes is underestimating the potential risks associated with pest birds nesting beneath solar panels. When birds such as pigeons or sparrows build their nests under solar panels, they bring along nesting materials, feathers, and droppings. This debris accumulation not only compromises the efficiency of the solar panels but also poses a significant fire hazard. Dry nesting materials combined with the heat generated by solar panels can ignite, leading to potentially devastating fires that affect all residents of the property.

2. Failure to Implement Preventative Measures: Body corporates often overlook the importance of implementing preventative measures to deter birds from nesting under solar panels. Installing bird-proofing materials, such as mesh or wire barriers, such as the Solarguard, can effectively prevent birds from accessing the space beneath solar panels. However, without proactive measures in place, buildings remain vulnerable to pest bird infestations, increasing the risk of damage, fire hazards and hefty insurance building costs.

3. Lack of Regular Maintenance: Even if preventative measures are initially put in place, neglecting regular maintenance can render them ineffective over time. Body corporates must ensure that solar panels are regularly inspected and maintained to prevent pest bird infestations that can damage solar panels. Installing specifically designed Solarguard mesh kits ensure easy and safe removal of mesh to complete inspection whilst maintaining warranty of the solar panels. This includes checking for any signs of bird activity, such as nests or droppings, and promptly addressing them to mitigate potential risks.

4. Failure to Communicate with Residents: Residents of apartments, townhouses, or units with shared roofs may be unaware of the risks associated with pest bird infestations under solar panels. It is crucial for body corporates to communicate effectively with residents about the importance of pest bird prevention measures and the role they play in maintaining a safe and clearn environment. Encouraging residents to report any signs of bird activity can help identify and address issues promptly.

5. Absence of Clear Policies: Without clear policies in place regarding pest bird prevention around solar panels, body corporates may overlook this critical aspect of building maintenance. It is essential for body corporates and facility managers to develop comprehensive policies that outline the necessary preventative measures, maintenance schedules, and responsibilities for all stakeholders involved. This includes establishing protocols for inspecting solar panels, conducting repairs, and addressing any issues related to pest bird infestations. 

The oversight of pest bird prevention around solar panels can have significant implications for the safety, integrity, and efficiency of buildings. Neglecting pest bird prevention can lead to significant risks and liabilities for buildings and residents alike. Body corporates must recognise the importance of implementing proactive measures to deter birds from nesting under solar panels and mitigate the associated hazards. By addressing common mistakes such as underestimating the risk, failure to implement preventative measures, lack of regular maintenance, communication gaps with residents, and absence of clear policies, body corporates can protect their properties against the risks posed by pest bird infestations. The legislation governing strata and body corporate management across Australia underscores the importance of proactive measures to prevent pest bird infestations and associated risks, particularly around shared structures such as solar panels. Adherence to these laws and implementation of appropriate pest bird prevention strategies ensure the safety and integrity of shared properties for residents and owners alike, while also embracing renewable energy solutions.