Key information for a thorough solar site assessment
A professional site assessment requires data about the property, energy use, roof, and local conditions to create an accurate system design and financial estimate.
Essential items to provide:
- Recent electricity bills: At least 12 months of bills help size the system to match consumption patterns and identify peak demand.
- Roof details: Age, material, pitch, approximate dimensions, and any known structural issues.
- Site access and restrictions: HOA rules, historic district limits, easements, or local permitting requirements.
- Shading concerns: Note nearby trees, chimneys, or structures that could cast shade across the roof.
- Preferred goals: Whether the goal is offsetting bills, achieving net-zero, backup power, or maximizing ROI.
What inspectors will collect on-site
- Roof measurements and orientation (azimuth and tilt)
- Photographs and condition notes
- Electrical panel capacity and meter location
- Shading analysis using tools or hand-held devices
Why this information matters
- Accurate production estimates depend on azimuth, tilt, and shading
- Structural and electrical constraints determine mounting and inverter choices
- Consumption data guides system size and battery needs if desired
Providing complete, accurate information speeds the assessment and improves the precision of the proposed system design.