You can go solar with FM Global insurance through the right approach to loss prevention

Why FM Global Matters for Rooftop Solar

FM Global isn’t just an insurer—it’s a technical authority on property risk. If your building is insured by FM Global, rooftop solar is possible, but only when it meets their rigorous loss prevention standards. From roof assemblies to fire protection and wind uplift, FM’s Data Sheet 1-15 outlines what’s required—and what’s not allowed.

Here’s what to expect if you want your solar project to succeed under FM Global.

Hazards FM Global cares about:

• Windstorm
• Hail
• Excessive load on structure from snow and ponding rainwater
• Earthquake
• Externally-Sourced Fire

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For a roof protected by FM Global, expect:

• One fixed anchor per 4 to 10 solar panels, with more at roof edges and corners
• Use of FM evaluated products
• FM review of plans, specifications, and calculations
• Wind deflectors behind solar panels, or East–West oriented systems that prevent wind catches
• Addition of non-combustible cover board with installation of a new roof or roof re-cover
• Interior sprinkler fire protection if building has a combustible roof assembly of wood deck, EPS insulation, or XPS insulation
• Glass-backed, bifacial solar panels, due to combustibility of standard plastic solar panel backsheets
• Solar omitted from areas within 50 feet of maximum foreseeable loss (MFL) walls and within 4 feet of expansion or control joints
• A robust commissioning program

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FM Global does not allow:

• Solar on rock ballasted roofs due to risk of windborne debris and array sliding
• Multi-ply roofing systems due to excessive load of fuel for fire
• Solar panels on roof assembly with combustible EPS or XPS insulation directly below the single-ply membrane

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Lumen has the expertise to help you navigate insurance and other implications of onsite solar. Get in touch with the team to learn more at hello@lumen.energy.

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Source: FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheet 1-15