Before comparing solar proposals, collect a year of electricity use and identify planned changes such as an EV or heat pump. Ask the installer to evaluate the roof, shading, and usable space. A system sized around a sales target may not match your household’s future needs.
Check the Roof and Site First
Discuss roof age and condition, structural assessment, tree shading, and the consequences of future roof replacement. Ask who is responsible for roof penetrations and coordinating repairs. DOE identifies roof suitability and shade as major planning factors. An attractive panel layout alone does not establish that the proposed installation fits the property.
Compare the Same Assumptions
Request equipment models, system size, estimated annual production, shading assumptions, degradation assumptions, and installation scope. Compare purchase, loan, lease, or power-purchase terms separately, including ownership, transfer, maintenance, and removal obligations. Keep financing charges and assumed incentives visible; do not treat an unverified rebate or tax benefit as guaranteed project funding.
- Who owns the equipment and any associated credits?
- What approvals remain before the system can operate?
- What happens if the roof needs replacement or the home is sold?
Check the Roof, Climate, and Utility Together
Ask how shade, roof orientation, heat, snow, wind exposure, and equipment placement affect the design assumptions. Have the installer coordinate attachment details with the roof's condition and warranty. Identify the utility's current interconnection process, export compensation, and any limits before relying on projected savings. A proposal should explain its assumptions rather than promise the same payback everywhere. Compare purchase, loan, and lease obligations separately. Confirm who handles local approvals, monitoring access, future roof work, and service if equipment fails or the original installer stops operating.
Questions Homeowners Ask
Does the lowest price per panel give the best comparison?
Compare the complete installed system and contract. Equipment, production assumptions, roof work, financing, service obligations, and utility requirements can differ even when panel counts match.
Should I replace the roof first?
Ask the roofer and solar installer to assess remaining condition and future removal costs together. The answer depends on the roof and project, not a universal age cutoff.
Sources And Local Resources
Official sources checked October 17, 2026. Confirm current requirements with the authority responsible for your property.
- FTC: Avoiding Home Improvement ScamsState or county credential checks, insurance, written estimates, scope and contract terms; contract requirements vary by state.
- U.S. Department of Energy: Homeowner Solar GuideRoof suitability, shade, financing and ownership choices, utility coordination and site-specific solar estimates; no current incentive guarantee.
Related Local Guides
Denver Hail Roof Replacement and Permit Scope
Compare Denver hail-roof proposals with clear permit ownership, material details and concealed-damage terms. Plan the work before the old covering comes off.
Read The Guide Washington, District of ColumbiaWashington Historic Rowhouse Roof and Solar Planning
Coordinate a Washington historic rowhouse roof and solar project around visibility, preservation review, roof condition and future maintenance access.
Read The Guide Miami, FloridaMiami Roof Replacement: Jurisdiction and Assembly Details
Plan a Miami roof replacement with the correct city or county permit route, documented roof assembly and inspection responsibilities before tear-off begins.
Read The GuideMore Local Guides For This Service (3)
- Maui Roof Repair With an Existing Solar Array Maui, Hawaii
- Nantucket Roofs and Windows: Approve Before Ordering Nantucket, Massachusetts
- Sandwich Solar and Old King’s Highway Review Sandwich, Massachusetts