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Home / UCC-1 Fixture Filings
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Solar UCC-1 fixture filings: what they mean for your home
Why a solar filing shows up in your county records, how it affects a sale or refinance, and how release works.
Last verified October 9, 2026
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The short answer: Many solar loans and leases are backed by a UCC-1 financing statement filed as a fixture filing in your county’s real property records. It gives the finance company a recorded interest in the solar equipment, not your house, but it shows up in title searches and can hold up a sale or refinance. Under the model UCC, a filing generally lasts five years unless continued (UCC 9-515), and for consumer goods the secured party must file a termination within one month after the debt is satisfied, or within 20 days after your signed demand, whichever is earlier (UCC 9-513).
Key takeaways
- A fixture filing covers the equipment, not your home.
- It appears in county property records and title searches.
- Title companies often require it resolved before closing.
- Filings generally last five years unless continued.
- Each state adopts the UCC with its own variations.
On this page
What a fixture filing is
A fixture filing is a UCC financing statement recorded where real estate records are kept, because solar equipment is attached to the home. Lenders file them on loans. Leasing companies often file them too, as a precaution, to protect their ownership of the equipment.
How to check for one
- Search your county recorder or clerk's records by your name and property address.
- Check your state Secretary of State's UCC database.
- Note the secured party, file number and filing date.
- Order a preliminary title report if you're preparing to sell.
When it's supposed to come off
For consumer goods, the model UCC requires the secured party to file a termination statement within one month after there’s no longer a secured obligation, or within 20 days after receiving your signed demand, whichever comes first, under UCC 9-513. If a filing should have been terminated and wasn’t, a written demand is the usual starting point. Your state’s version of the UCC controls the details.
Closing date approaching?
Tell us your timeline on the intake form; eight weeks and eight days call for very different approaches.
If you're selling or refinancing
- Search for filings before you list.
- Request a payoff or transfer letter in writing.
- Tell your title company early.
- For a lease or PPA, ask what the buyer must do to assume it.
- Don't let a buyer's deadline push you into a costly buyout without a review.
Common questions
UCC-1 FAQs
Does a solar UCC-1 put a lien on my house?
The security interest is in the equipment, not the home, but it’s recorded in property records and shows up in title searches.
How long does a UCC-1 last?
Generally five years under the model UCC unless a continuation is filed.
How do I get a filing removed after payoff?
For consumer goods, the secured party must generally file a termination within one month after the debt is satisfied, or within 20 days of your signed demand.
Can a leasing company file one?
Yes, often as a precautionary filing to protect its ownership of the equipment.
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Solar Cancellation HQ is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. This page is general information, and reading it or submitting a form does not create an attorney-client relationship. Not every contract qualifies, and no outcome is guaranteed. We never advise anyone to stop making payments on a solar loan, lease or PPA. Laws and utility rules change, so verify before acting. Last verified October 9, 2026.