Rooftop Solar Installation Hampshire

We inspect rafter spacing, depth and condition from inside the loft to confirm that the roof structure can support the weight of the solar array. Older Hampshire roofs, particularly those near the coast, sometimes have weathered timbers that require reinforcement before installation can proceed.

Period properties may need additional timber strengthening at this stage. We provide written documentation of any necessary structural work before proceeding with a quote, ensuring the roof is sound for a 25-year system.

The condition of tiles, slates or membranes is assessed from roof level to identify any that need replacing before the solar installation begins. Roof age matters more than the type of covering, since the system is expected to remain in place for 25 years.

Roofs with fewer than five years of remaining life should be re-covered first. We can provide quotes for both the roof covering and the solar installation in a single visit, ensuring long-term compatibility between the two.

Pitch angle and orientation are analysed against a compass to determine the optimal energy yield for your roof. We prefer installing on pitches between 30 and 40 degrees for maximum performance.

East-west arrays are designed to distribute power output throughout the day, while flat roofs use ballasted A-frames angled towards the sun. South-facing roofs deliver the highest annual output in Hampshire.

Shading from chimneys, dormers, trees and neighbouring structures is assessed carefully, as it has a significant effect on energy generation. We maintain a 400mm clearance from every skylight and chimney stack in accordance with building regulations.

For properties with complex roof shapes — including hips, valleys and dormers — we use shorter rail sections and split strings to optimise output across the varied roof structure. Shading analysis is carried out during the survey.

Cable routing from the roof to the consumer unit is planned to ensure safe and efficient electrical connections. The route determines where the inverter will be located and how the DC wiring runs through the property.

We assess the most direct path with the least disruption, ensuring compliance with electrical regulations. Correct cable routing is essential for G98/G99 grid notification and Smart Export Guarantee tariff activation.

We begin with a comprehensive survey covering loft inspection, roof assessment, shading analysis, cable routing evaluation and a written quotation. PVGIS data is used to model your specific yield before a quote is provided.

This ensures accuracy without reliance on marketing figures. The survey also identifies any roof preparation work required before installation can proceed.

Scaffolding is erected first on most pitched roofs, with working platforms spanning the eaves. Tiles are lifted, rafter fixings are installed, and flashings are sealed to ensure waterproofing before the rails are mounted.

Tools and panels are hoisted from ground level, and two-person lifts are used for any panel over 20kg. Tiles are stacked on padded boards to prevent damage during the installation process.

Mounting rails are installed, panels are fixed, DC wiring is completed, the inverter is set up, the AC connection is made and isolators are fitted. Most Hampshire homes are completed within one to three days, though larger systems with battery storage may take four to five days.

Panel wattage is particularly important for smaller roofs, where modern 430W modules outperform older 300W panels within the same area. This difference is significant for terraced homes with limited roof space.

G98 or G99 paperwork is submitted to SSEN (the local distribution network operator), the Smart Export Guarantee application is processed, and a handover package is provided. G98 notification applies to systems up to 3.68 kW per phase.

G99 pre-approval is required before any panel installation for larger systems. The MCS certificate number is provided for SEG tariff activation with your energy supplier.

Written documentation is provided at completion, including warranty certificates for panels (25 years), inverter (10 to 12 years) and our 10-year workmanship guarantee. The MCS certificate is essential for SEG eligibility, 0% VAT compliance and mortgage lender satisfaction.

ECO funding verification for low-income households is completed during the survey. All paperwork is organised and available for future buyers, ensuring documented compliance at the point of property sale.

Most Hampshire homes are completed within one to three days, although larger systems with battery storage may take four to five days. Cottage roofs with dormers and chimneys can add additional time to the programme.

G98 notification applies to systems up to 3.68 kW per phase, and we submit the paperwork to your local distribution network operator. G99 pre-approval is required before any panel installation on larger systems.

Rooftop solar functions during cloudy weather, though at reduced output levels. Modern monocrystalline panels use PERC cell technology to capture diffuse light, ensuring output does not fall to zero during daylight hours.

Bright haze and light cloud can produce stronger output than heavy overcast conditions, which can still power essential appliances such as fridges, freezers and home offices without drawing from the grid.

Hampshire falls within a strong UK irradiance zone according to PVGIS estimates, and summer surpluses offset winter shortfalls over the course of the year. Your electricity bills reflect the true picture across four quarters.

A battery stores surplus energy from sunny days, and the Smart Export Guarantee compensates for any units returned to the grid during bright periods.

Rooftop solar installations carry three levels of warranty cover: panel product cover, inverter cover and workmanship cover. Each warranty protects a distinct component of the system.

Panel manufacturers typically provide 25-year product and performance warranties on Tier 1 modules, guaranteeing at least 85 percent of rated output after 25 years.

Inverter warranties generally range from 10 to 12 years, with most brands offering paid extensions to 20 years.

Our workmanship guarantee covers every new installation for 10 years, protecting against leaks, fixing failures and wiring faults arising from the installation.

Worker safety is maintained through scaffolding, harnesses and edge protection on every project, in compliance with the Working at Height Regulations 2005. We begin with a written risk assessment that identifies fall hazards, fragile surfaces and overhead cables.

Scaffolding is erected first on most pitched roofs, with working platforms spanning the eaves. Tools and panels are hoisted from ground level, and two-person lifts are used for any panel over 20kg.

Our team holds certifications in asbestos awareness, working at height and manual handling. Public liability insurance is held at £5 million and employers’ liability insurance at £10 million.

Tiles are stacked on padded boards, the driveway is kept clear and tidy, and the loft is protected with dust sheets throughout the work.

Rooftop solar installations can be designed around chimneys, skylights, vents and dormers. Most Hampshire homes have at least one roof obstacle, and we plan installations around these features rather than over them.

We maintain a 400mm clearance from every skylight and chimney stack. This gap meets building regulations and preserves roofer access to flashings in the future.

For properties with complex roof shapes — such as hips, valleys and dormers — we use shorter rail sections and split strings to optimise output across the varied roof structure.