Before You Request a Quote: A Roof Assessment Checklist
An integrated solar tile forms part of the roof covering, so the decision is about the roof as well as the electrical system. This checklist helps homeowners prepare useful information and questions before seeking a project-specific proposal. It is not a description of a fixed SolarTyle survey process, and not every roof will suit the same system.
1. Establish the Roof Project
Is the property a new build, a planned roof replacement or an existing roof that is otherwise sound? This changes which work belongs in the proposal. For an older roof, gather its age, covering type, known leaks, previous repairs and any planned extension or loft work. A solar system should not be used to disguise a roof defect. Read our roof-replacement guide for the particular questions an older roof raises.
If you have drawings, a roof survey or recent photographs, keep them together. They help the relevant professionals decide what still needs to be inspected in person and whether a structural assessment is required.
2. Identify the Usable Roof Area
Note the roof's direction and pitch, but also its rooflights, chimneys, dormers, hips, valleys and nearby trees or buildings. These features affect the space available for solar tiles and the amount of sunlight they receive. A neat-looking layout is useful only if it can be installed on the actual roof and produce worthwhile electricity.
Ask for the proposed layout and its predicted annual generation in kWh, not only its installed capacity in kWp. Two systems with the same kWp can produce different amounts of electricity because of orientation and shade; our generation comparison explains why.
3. Raise Any Planning Constraints Early
Tell the project team if the building is listed, in a conservation area or subject to another known restriction. Do not assume that a flush appearance removes the need to check consent. Planning rules depend on the property, the proposal and where it is; your local planning authority can clarify the position. The electrical connection and any network notification also need to be addressed by the relevant installer.
See our UK planning overview for a starting point, then seek project-specific advice where needed.
4. Compare the Scope, Not Just the Price
A quote for solar tiles may not cover the same work as a quote for above-roof panels or a complete roof replacement. Ask each supplier to state what is included or excluded:
- Removal and disposal of existing roof materials, where relevant
- Scaffolding and access
- Battens, underlay, flashings and surrounding non-solar tiles
- Inverter, electrical work, connection and commissioning
- Battery storage, if requested
- VAT, making good, warranties and any additional roof repairs
Some items will not apply to every property, and a supplier may price them separately. What matters is that the boundary is visible before you compare totals. Our solar-tile cost guide explains the difference between a solar-system comparison and a whole-roof project.
5. Send the Useful Starting Details
A helpful first enquiry includes the property postcode, project type, roof plans or clear photographs if available, expected roof-work timing, known defects or shade, and any appearance or planning constraints. Add recent electricity usage if you want the design to reflect your household's demand. Do not worry if you do not have every item; state what is known and what still needs checking.
A project-specific assessment can then define whether integrated tiles are suitable, what further survey or design work is needed, and what the quotation covers. No standard checklist replaces a competent inspection of the actual roof.
Independent Guidance
- Energy Saving Trust: solar panels, roof suitability and costs.
- Energy Saving Trust: rooftop solar installation steps.
- GOV.UK: permitted development rights for householders in England.
This checklist is general information. Roof, structural, electrical and planning decisions must be made for the individual project by the appropriate professionals and authorities.
