Maintenance Bond

Worry-Free Management After Project Completion

After completion, as a general contractor, you often have to guarantee the performance of the project. This means you must remedy any defects in workmanship, materials or design within the agreed warranty period.

A maintenance guarantee, also called a warranty bond, provides security for both your company and the client. It guarantees the long-term quality of the project, while protecting the client from unexpected costs.

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What is a Maintenance Bond?

A maintenance bond is a financial guarantee that protects both the contractor and the project owner against defects that may arise after the project is completed.

This bond holds the contractor accountable for resolving any issues that occur within the agreed-upon warranty period.

If any problems occur during the agreed-upon warranty period, the bond ensures that repairs are made at no extra cost to the owner.

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How Does a Maintenance Bond Work?

If issues are discovered within the warranty period, the project developer or owner (the beneficiary) can file a claim under the maintenance bond.

The surety company will assess the claim to confirm its validity. If the claim is valid, the surety ensures the issue is resolved or provides financial compensation to the project owner to cover repair costs.

The surety company will recover the costs from the contractor.

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Why Choose a Maintenance Bond?

Contractors
Demonstrate your commitment to quality and build trust with project owners while protecting your business.

Owners
Gain confidence in the project’s durability, knowing any problems during the warranty period will be resolved at no additional cost.

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What is the Difference Between a Maintenance Bond and a Performance Bond?

A performance bond guarantees that you will complete the project according to the contract. It protects the project owner against financial losses if you fail to meet your obligations.

A maintenance bond, on the other hand, comes into effect after the project’s completion. This bond ensures that you, the constractor, resolve any defects or issues after completion.

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Key Features of a Maintenance Bond:

  • Quality
    The contractor remains responsible for the quality of their work for a specified period after completion.
  • Warranty Period
    There is typically a coverage period of one to two years.
  • Surety Company
    An insurer or surety company guarantees that issues will be resolved.
  • Financial Protection
    Protection against unexpected costs due to construction defects during the warranty period.
  • Reliability
    Increases the contractor’s reliability, credibility, and reputation.
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Example of a Maintenance Bond for a Solar Park

A contractor is hired to build a large solar park. The owner requires a maintenance bond to ensure that the park functions properly during the agreed warranty period after the project’s completion.

If defects in the installation or materials are discovered during this warranty period, the bond guarantees that the contractor will be responsible for repairs or replacements at no additional cost to the owner.

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Important Additional Coverages!

In addition to essential construction bonds, it’s wise to insure against unexpected risks, both during and after the construction phase.

A Construction All Risks (CAR) insurance offers comprehensive coverage throughout the construction phase, while an Solar Panel All Risks Insurance protects your project once it becomes operational.

These insurances protect you against unforeseen costs, ensuring that your project is not only successfully completed but also delivers the returns you anticipated – or even better.

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Why Choose Solarif?

We offer tailor-made bonds that perfectly fit your project.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible to purchase a maintenance bond separately?

A maintenance bond can only be obtained together with a performance bond. However, a performance bond can be obtained separately.

What is the Coverage Period of a Maintenance Bond

A maintenance bond is usually valid for one to two years, depending on the contract. It is important to know the exact warranty period, so you know within what timeframe claims can be made.

Can a maintenance bond be extended?

Usually not; the duration is predetermined in the contract.

What happens if the contractor doesn’t fix the problems?

The surety company will take over the issue and resolve it.

What does a maintenance bond cost?

Costs typically range from 0.5% to 4% of the total amount. This depends on the warranty period and your financial situation.

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