As solar power becomes more affordable and accessible throughout the U.S., more and more residents are making the switch. Not only can this investment save you money in the long run, but it’s also going to make a positive impact on the environment for years to come.
But how can you go about obtaining a building permit for solar panel installation? Is the process the same everywhere, or does it vary?
We have all the information to help you through the process. Read on to learn everything you need to know.
Do You Need a Building Permit for Solar Panel Installation?
So the question is, do you need a building permit for solar? In short, the answer is yes. What gets complicated is learning the local, state, and federal laws that you have to abide by in order to obtain that permit.
This isn’t much different than any other additions to your home, though, so the process shouldn’t be too daunting.
What Happens if You Don’t Have a Building Permit?
Failure to obtain any and all the required permits for your project can result in fines. You may even be called to take your solar panels down, putting you right back where you were before you started.
Take your time from the beginning to ensure everything is being done properly. From there, it’s easy to follow the process so nothing is held up along the way.
Permit Requirements
The biggest thing you’re going to need to remember is that permit requirements change throughout the years. If this isn’t your first time having solar panels installed, you’re going to have to research laws and bring yourself up-to-date before getting started.
You’re also likely to need an inspection from a local electrician to ensure that you’re meeting the proper codes, and you might have to clear it with your electricity company as well.
It’s also important to ensure you have approval from your homeowner’s insurance company. They might have certain regulations for homeowners to follow. If you fail to meet your insurance company’s requirements, it can result in your policy being voided.
How You Can Ensure Your Solar Panels Are Properly Licensed
To ensure that your solar panels are properly licensed and insured, it’s best to call in a local professional. They’re going to know the local laws, and they’re also going to be able to walk you through the entire process.
In some cases, you’re going to need a license to even purchase the materials you need to install solar panels. When you’re hiring or consulting with a professional, make sure you ask to see their professional certifications.
These are going to look different for each state and even city, but the premise remains the same: permits are the number one thing you need before you start construction or installation of your solar panels.
How Do You Know You’re Working With the Right Company?
No matter what area you live in, working with an experienced installer is the best way to ensure not only your own safety but also the safety of everyone in your home. Here are a few signs that you’ve picked the right installer:
- Transparency
- Communicative
- Knowledgeable
- Includes you every step of the way
The right installer is going to be transparent about their process and work to include you every step of the way. Not only will they communicate with you in a timely manner, but they’ll work to keep you updated on everything as it’s happening.
They’ll know what they’re doing, and you’ll know you can trust them with your home.
Can This Be a DIY Project?
If you’re not properly qualified, installing solar panels yourself can be a dangerous task to take on. Not only can you hurt yourself, but it can lead to serious damage to your home.
Not only could you fall and hurt yourself, but panels also present the same risk. When either happens, it has the potential to damage not only you and the equipment but also anybody on the ground and your roof or home.
Shingles can be knocked off, rain gutters can get displaced, or you could break one of the panels, which are all costly repairs in themselves.
It’s best to trust a professional with the job. It might seem like you’re spending a lot of money on something you could “just do yourself,” but you’re actually going to be saving it.
When you hire a trusted professional, they’re going to be licensed and insured, and so is your product. If something happens to either one of them on your property, then it’s all going to be taken care of.
You’re also giving yourself peace of mind. When you hire a professional, you know everything is going to be done correctly the first time around. You won’t have to worry about repairs or mistakes being made.
In the event they are made, your warranty is going to ensure they’re fixed. If any damage is done to your home, it’s going to cover that as well.
Go With the Best in the Industry
Now that you’ve learned everything you need to know about obtaining a building permit for solar panel installation, it’s time to get started. When you embark on the journey of adding solar panels to your home, it’s important to have a team of professionals behind you the entire way.
That’s where LGCY Power comes in. Not only do our services come with a 25-year warranty, but our team of professionals is knowledgeable enough to help you from beginning to end.
Schedule a consultation today to get started.
