In the commercial sector in particular, roof areas are rented or leased to companies that use these areas for a photovoltaic system. Roof space is also often leased to an external photovoltaic operator for rental and owner-occupied properties.

Change of use

PV system on the roof
PV system on the roof (Photo: AH Safety Engineering GmbH)

By installing a photovoltaic system on a roof area, it now turns out that there is another use here. This adds additional requirements, both in the area of fire protection and employee protection. In the area of worker protection, it should be noted that additional safety devices, such as fall protection,... must be attached. This construction results in an increase in inspection and maintenance obligations. External leasing is not exempt from this.

For example, the existing roof cladding forms a separate unit of use on the property when it is rented/leased out. In this case, the photovoltaic system does not belong to the owner, but to a third party. Here, additional fire protection requirements may apply in addition to the electrotechnical requirements for photovoltaic systems.

For example, it must be possible for external persons to access the roof area at all times. In this case, it may be necessary, for example, to change the locking conditions of the access doors.

Obligation to inspect

Above all, the obligation to ensure traffic safety (ÖNORM B 1300 and ÖNORM B 1301) results in different inspection variants. In this regard, it follows that safety devices must be provided for the use of the roof.

ÖNORM B 3417 divides the use of the roof into four categories.

  • Category A - low usage
  • Category B - medium use
  • Category C - intensive use
  • Category D - generally accessible areas

Depending on the relevant category, the standard specifies requirements for fall protection and access to the PV system. It may be that additional safety measures need to be installed due to a different use. We strongly recommend that this is clarified before signing the usage agreements as to who is responsible for the installation and maintenance of the safety equipment, including during operation of the photovoltaic system.

We would also like to point out that protective measures in accordance with the relevant regulations must also be observed during the installation of the photovoltaic system.

In the case of commercial operations, renting out the roof area may also require a permit in accordance with the German Commercial Code. This must be checked on a case-by-case basis.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.