Before specifying rooftop solar: the commercial-building checklist

A commercial rooftop project begins with the building, not a module count. Assemble the information needed by qualified building and electrical professionals before narrowing equipment choices.

Understand the roof

Record roof construction, condition, age, repair history, drainage and access arrangements. Identify planned roof replacement and existing warranty obligations. Roof area alone does not establish allowable system size.

Understand the electricity demand

Gather consumption data, tariff details and operating hours. Annual consumption alone can conceal the difference between daytime generation and the timing of actual demand.

Define the delivery scope

Clarify who supplies equipment, completes structural and electrical design, obtains local approvals and manages commissioning. Keep roof maintenance access and future equipment replacement in the project brief.

Use these questions to prepare an initial assessment. They do not replace a site inspection, structural analysis or jurisdiction-specific installation requirements.