Essential Guide: What to Review Before Solar Installation

Before solar installation, homeowners should review roof condition, energy usage history, local permits, financing options, installer credentials, and equipment warranties. A thorough roof assessment and 12 months of energy bills provide the foundation for proper system sizing and realistic expectations.

Why Does Pre-Installation Planning Matter So Much?

Solar panel installation represents one of the largest home improvements most people will ever make, with systems typically costing $15,000-$30,000 before incentives. Unlike other home upgrades, solar installations involve complex engineering, electrical work, and long-term financial commitments spanning 20-25 years. The difference between a successful installation and a problematic one often comes down to thorough preparation and vetting. Homeowners who skip the review process frequently encounter unexpected costs, delayed installations, or systems that underperform expectations. Smart preparation also helps you spot red flags early and ensures you're working with qualified professionals who understand your specific situation.

What Should You Assess About Your Roof First?

Your roof is the foundation of your solar investment, so it needs careful evaluation before any equipment arrives:

1. Age and condition: Roofs older than 10 years may need repairs or replacement before installation. Solar panels last 25+ years, so you don't want to remove them early for roof work.
2. Structural integrity: Have a structural engineer verify your roof can handle the additional weight (typically 2-4 pounds per square foot for panels and mounting hardware).
3. Roof material compatibility: Asphalt shingles, metal, and tile work well with solar, but slate, cedar shakes, or flat roofs may require specialized mounting systems.
4. Shading analysis: Document any nearby trees, buildings, or structures that cast shadows on your roof throughout the day, especially during peak sun hours (10am-4pm).
5. Available space and orientation: South-facing sections with minimal obstructions (vents, chimneys, dormers) provide optimal solar production.

How Do You Calculate Your Energy Needs Accurately?

Understanding your energy consumption patterns is crucial for proper system sizing. Gather 12 months of electric bills to identify seasonal variations—summer air conditioning and winter heating can create significant usage swings. Look beyond just the kilowatt-hour (kWh) totals and examine your utility's rate structure, including time-of-use rates and demand charges. If you're planning major lifestyle changes like adding an electric vehicle, pool, or home office, factor these into your calculations. Many homeowners also consider future needs, such as family growth or retirement lifestyle changes. A properly sized system should offset 90-110% of your annual electricity usage, accounting for small efficiency improvements you might make before installation.

Which Local Requirements Must You Research?

Solar installations involve multiple regulatory layers that vary significantly by location:

• Building permits: Most municipalities require structural and electrical permits, with fees ranging from $100-$1,000 depending on system size and local requirements
• Homeowners Association (HOA) approval: Review your HOA covenants and submit architectural review applications early, as approval processes can take 30-90 days
• Utility interconnection agreements: Your utility company must approve grid connection, which involves application submissions and sometimes equipment upgrades
• Zoning compliance: Some areas have setback requirements, height restrictions, or aesthetic guidelines that affect panel placement
• Historic district considerations: Homes in designated historic areas often face additional design restrictions or require special approval processes

What Financial Options Should You Compare?

Solar financing has evolved far beyond simple cash purchases, with each option carrying different implications for ownership, savings, and tax benefits. Cash purchases typically offer the best long-term returns and full ownership of renewable energy credits, but require significant upfront investment. Solar loans preserve ownership benefits while spreading costs over time, though interest rates and terms vary widely between lenders. Solar leases and power purchase agreements (PPAs) minimize upfront costs but typically provide lower long-term savings and transfer system ownership to third parties. Research current federal tax credits (currently 30% through 2032), state incentives, and local utility rebates, as these can significantly impact your effective cost regardless of financing method.

How Do You Vet Solar Installation Companies?

Use this checklist to evaluate potential solar installers:

• Verify active licensing in your state and local jurisdiction
• Confirm liability insurance and workers' compensation coverage
• Check Better Business Bureau rating and complaint history
• Review recent customer references and completed project photos
• Verify manufacturer certifications from major equipment brands
• Examine warranty terms for both equipment and installation work
• Request detailed written proposals with system specifications
• Compare multiple quotes with similar equipment and assumptions
• Understand post-installation monitoring and maintenance services
• Confirm they handle permit applications and utility interconnection

What Equipment Specifications Matter Most?

Solar panel quality varies significantly between manufacturers, with efficiency ratings, durability testing, and warranty terms serving as key differentiators. Look for panels with at least 20-year performance warranties guaranteeing 80% of original output after two decades. Inverter selection—whether string inverters, power optimizers, or microinverters—affects system performance, monitoring capabilities, and expansion options. Higher efficiency panels cost more upfront but generate more power per square foot, making them valuable for space-constrained roofs. Research the financial stability of equipment manufacturers, as warranty claims decades from now depend on companies remaining in business. Don't overlook mounting systems and electrical components, as these affect installation quality and long-term reliability.

How Should You Prepare Your Property?

Physical preparation extends beyond roof assessment to include electrical system evaluation and site access planning. Have a licensed electrician inspect your main electrical panel to ensure it can handle solar interconnection—older panels may need upgrades that add $1,000-$3,000 to project costs. Clear vegetation that might shade panels and consider future growth patterns of nearby trees. Ensure installation crews have adequate access to your roof and space for equipment staging. If you have security systems, pools, or landscaping near planned electrical runs, coordinate with installers about temporary shutdowns or protection measures. Document your roof's current condition with photos, as this helps with any future warranty claims or insurance discussions.

What Timeline Expectations Are Realistic?

Solar installation timelines involve multiple phases that homeowners should understand:

• Initial consultation and site assessment: 1-2 weeks for thorough evaluation and custom system design
• Contract finalization and financing: 1-2 weeks depending on loan processing and documentation requirements
• Permit applications and approvals: 2-8 weeks varying significantly by jurisdiction and application completeness
• Equipment ordering and delivery: 2-6 weeks depending on panel and inverter availability
• Installation work: 1-3 days for typical residential systems, weather permitting
• Utility interconnection and final approvals: 2-6 weeks for utility inspection and permission to operate

The biggest mistake homeowners make is rushing the decision because of sales pressure. Take time to understand your options—a quality installation will perform for decades, so a few extra weeks of planning is worth years of better performance.

Mike Rodriguez, NABCEP-certified solar installer with 12 years experience

What Red Flags Should Stop You From Moving Forward?

Certain warning signs indicate you should pause your solar project or switch installers entirely. High-pressure sales tactics, door-to-door solicitation, or demands for immediate signatures suggest companies more focused on closing deals than delivering quality installations. Quotes that seem significantly higher or lower than others may indicate padding or corner-cutting. Installers who can't provide local references, refuse to specify equipment brands, or won't guarantee timeline and performance metrics often lack experience or confidence in their work. Be particularly wary of companies requiring large upfront payments or offering deals that seem too good to be true. Legitimate solar installers compete on quality and service, not pressure tactics or unrealistic promises.