Pigeons love solar panels, and not because they're particularly interested in clean energy. It’s the warm, dry gap underneath the panels that draws them in.
Unfortunately, what looks like the perfect nesting spot for birds can quickly become a nightmare for homeowners. From clogged gutters to corroded cables and sky-high cleaning bills, the damage adds up fast.
If you’re relying on solar to help cut down electricity costs and live more sustainably, pigeon-proofing your panels isn’t just an optional extra, but part of the upkeep.
In this guide, we’ll walk through what pigeon-proofing involves and how much it costs in Australia right now.
If you're tired of droppings, noise, or blocked gutters - or just want to protect your solar investment and clean it before problems start - give us a ring. We use weather-tough mesh, safe no-drill methods, and clean up any mess while we’re at it.
Call 0414 175 704 to get a free quote and speak with someone who knows exactly what your roof needs. No pressure, no fuss - just proper protection from the start.
Solar adoption in Australia has soared over the last decade, with over 3.5 million homes now powered by rooftop solar. But more panels mean more hidden, sheltered spaces—and pigeons have noticed.
Here’s what happens when they move in:
Pigeon-proofing stops all that at the source. And if you’re already seeing droppings, feathers, or hearing cooing under the panels, you’re probably overdue for a fix.
There’s more than one way to protect your solar panels from birds, but some methods are more reliable than others.
The go-to option for most Aussie homes. A durable mesh, usually galvanised steel or UV-stabilised PVC, is fitted around the perimeter of your panels to block birds from nesting underneath. It allows airflow but keeps pigeons, sparrows, starlings, and even seagulls out.
Spikes are installed around the edges of panels or along rooflines to stop birds from landing.
Devices that emit high-frequency sounds or flashing lights, as well as plastic owls or hawks meant to scare birds off.
Small dishes of gel that reflect light and release scents birds dislike. Usually installed on the panels or roof.
Some systems use clip-on rails that seal off the gap beneath panels without using mesh. Often used in combination with mesh or spikes.
Costs vary a lot depending on the size of your solar system, the height and type of your roof, and what method you choose. But here’s a ballpark:
Cost Component
Range (AUD)
Details
Total Installation Cost
$900–$3,000
Most homes fall between $900 and $1,500. Larger/more complex jobs cost more.
Bird Mesh (Material)
$35–$50 per metre
UV-resistant or galvanised; designed for Aussie weather
Bird Spikes
$15–$30 per linear foot
Works for ledges and panel edges
Acoustic Devices
$400+
Easy DIY, but not a complete solution
Labour
$500–$1,000
Usually includes setup, inspection, and removal of nests/debris
Assessment Quote
$0
Our company offers free site inspections
Annual Maintenance
$350–$500
Checking mesh integrity, cleaning buildup, minor repairs
For a single-storey home with 16–20 panels and a pitched roof, you’re likely looking at a total of $900 to $1,200 for a professional mesh installation. Larger systems or more difficult roof access (e.g., a steep two-storey setup) might push it closer to $2,000–$3,000.
Several things can nudge your total cost higher or lower:
Yes, but it comes with caveats.
DIY mesh kits range from $250 to $450, depending on size. Some also come with gloves and tools for installation.
If your roof is low, flat, and easily accessible—and you’re handy with tools—you might save several hundred dollars. Just make sure the materials are weather proof and the setup leaves no gaps.
Even the best mesh needs the occasional check-up. UV exposure, strong winds, and sneaky birds can weaken clips or push materials loose.
Many professional installers offer annual service plans or maintenance checks starting from $350, depending on the setup.
In Australia, bird-proofing must comply with local wildlife regulations. Harmful chemical deterrents or lethal traps can be illegal, depending on the state. Councils generally support non-lethal options like mesh, netting, and spikes.
If pigeons are nesting, it may also be necessary to wait until chicks have fledged before removal, depending on local wildlife laws. Best to call in a licensed professional for advice in that case.
Spotting any of the following? Time to look at pigeon-proofing:
Waiting too long can mean higher repair bills—or even panel replacements.
It’s easy to look at the total cost and think, “Maybe later.” But when you factor in what pigeons can cost you over time, pigeon-proofing usually pays for itself.
Don’t let pigeons wreck your panels or your peace of mind. At The Gutter Cleaning Co., we know how to bird-proof solar setups the right way, using tough mesh, non-invasive fittings, and gear that holds up in various conditions.
Contact us and call 0414 175 704 to book a free quote. We’ll sort the birds, clean the mess, and leave your panels protected for the long haul.
Professional Gutter Cleaning in Sydney and surrounding suburbs. Gutter guard, repairs, maintenance and roof safety anchor systems.
