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External Solar Tech Surveys: Efficiency for Installers
What is a Solar Tech Survey?
A Solar Tech Survey (or Site Assessment) is a comprehensive, detailed evaluation of a property to determine its suitability for a solar photovoltaic (PV) system. It is the crucial first step before any installation, ensuring the system is correctly designed for maximum efficiency.
Key elements assessed include:
Solar Exposure & Shading Analysis: Measuring the roof's orientation, tilt, and analyzing any obstructions (trees, chimneys, nearby buildings) that will cast shadows and reduce energy output.
Roof Evaluation: Assessing the roof's material, condition, and structural integrity to confirm it can safely support the weight of the solar panels and mounting system.
Electrical System Check: Examining the utility meter, main service panel, and wiring capacity to ensure safe and seamless integration of the new solar system.
Optimal Placement: Using the data to plan the precise location of panels for maximum sunlight capture and minimal shading throughout the year.
How External Surveys Benefit Solar Installers
By outsourcing the site assessment to an external specialist, solar installers can dramatically reduce costs and time on every project:
Benefit for Installers | Description | Time & Cost Reduction |
Optimised Design from Day One | External specialists provide installers with highly accurate, comprehensive data (including drone imagery and shading reports). This eliminates the need to rely on less precise satellite imagery or basic estimates. | Saves Time: Avoids costly redesigns, re-submissions, and delays caused by discovering site issues mid-installation. Saves Cost: Ensures the system is perfectly sized, preventing over-ordering of materials or unexpected structural upgrades. |
Streamlined Workflow | Your in-house installation teams are kept on the tools and focused on installation, not on time-consuming site visits, data collection, and report writing. | Saves Time: Frees up your skilled installers' time for revenue-generating work, improving crew efficiency and throughput. Saves Cost: Reduces travel expenses, vehicle wear-and-tear, and the labour cost associated with non-installation tasks. |
Guaranteed Compliance | A professional external survey ensures all data needed for permitting and regulatory compliance (including structural and electrical checks) is gathered accurately the first time. | Saves Time: Speeds up the often-slow permit application and approval process, reducing project lead times. |
The All-In-One Surveying Advantage
We will also provide companies and homeowners with a Post-Installation Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) after every completed project.
By integrating this step into our service, we help our partners reduce the cost and time of outsourcing an external domestic assessor. The final EPC formally verifies the improved energy rating, which is critical for compliance and for the homeowner to realise the full value of their investment.
Understanding Solar Grants under ECO4
It is important to note that under the UK government's Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme, the Solar PV (Solar Panel) grant is ONLY available to eligible households when installed as a secondary measure alongside a primary measure (like insulation or a heat pump). This funding is strictly targeted at low-income and vulnerable households.
Why Choose Verde Surveying?
Verde Surveying specialises in providing the technical assurance required for complex energy efficiency and renewable projects:
Accuracy & Compliance: We deliver granular, detailed, and impartial reports that meet the stringent standards required by regulatory bodies and grant schemes like ECO4, giving you confidence in your submission.
Expertise in Traditional Property: Our background in surveying traditional and older properties means we are expert at identifying and mitigating risks (such as structural or moisture issues) that generic surveys might miss, ensuring a safe and durable installation.
Reduce Your Risk: By partnering with us, you transfer the time and liability of complex pre-installation data gathering and post-installation compliance checks, allowing you to focus on your core business: high-quality installation.