If you’re ready to call up your local solar company and invest in rooftop solar panels, that’s great! That said, it’s important to do a little bit of prep work first. There are a few things you might want to check before a solar installation, after all. Let’s review three key things you need to consider before investing in rooftop solar panels.
Whether Your Roof Needs Repairs
The first thing you need to consider is whether your roof needs repairs or not. A roof in disrepair won’t be able to support solar panels. If you already know that you need a new roof soon, make sure you tackle that project before you contact solar companies in your area or look into solar panel financing options. If you’re unsure whether your roof is in good shape or not, now is the perfect time to invest in a roof inspection. Solar energy might be able to provide 24/7 power, but you need to have a roof to support your panels before that can happen. Even a few missing shingles could affect your roof’s ability to support solar panels. Don’t wait to make sure your roof checks out.
How to Connect to the Grid
This is a later-stage check that you need to perform, but an incredibly important one. Connecting your solar panel system to the grid is what will provide you with power in your home. When you’re connecting with a local utility service, there are a few questions you’ll need answered.
- How long will it take to connect solar panels to the grid?
- Are there any fees that need to be paid?
- How will you get credited for the electricity generated?
- When will you get credited for the electricity generated?
Before you invest in solar panels, it’s important to make sure these questions get answered. Otherwise, you may be supplying the grid with energy without getting credit for it.
What Insurance You’ll Need
Before making any kind of change to your home, it’s important to make sure you have the right insurance coverage. This includes insurance coverage for installation, the insurance help by your solar company, and your homeowner insurance policy. Making sure that you’re covered under all of these insurance policies is key to protecting your home and your solar energy investment for the future. In addition, make sure you’re checking on local and state regulations for building codes and legal regulations.
Installing solar panels is a great opportunity to go green. Just make sure you have all of these things squared away before contacting a solar company.