Use this guide
Choose the questions relevant to your situation. Expand each answer, save the checklist and request written clarification where evidence is missing.
Questions homeowners ask
Should I replace my roof before solar?
Roof age, condition and expected replacement needs belong in the decision. Ask a qualified roofer about the roof and obtain written removal and reinstallation terms from the solar contractor. Do not assume an array solves an existing roof problem.
Source: DOE: Homeowner solar guide. Reviewed 2026-10-05.
Can imagery prove that my roof is structurally ready?
No. Imagery can support early layout screening; it does not inspect concealed framing or verify all electrical information. Ask what was directly observed, what remains unknown and which professional will make the required structural determination.
How should shade be evaluated?
Review the relevant roof areas and seasonal obstructions, not just one sunny photograph. Ask about input dates, trees, neighboring structures and what was omitted. A shade animation illustrates a scenario; it does not establish that all actual obstructions were captured.
What do kW and kWh mean?
kW describes power at a moment or rated capacity; kWh measures energy over time. When comparing proposals, distinguish equipment capacity from modeled annual energy and from actual measured production. The three numbers answer different questions.
Can a production calculator guarantee output?
No. PVWatts describes its results as predictions with assumptions and uncertainties. Ask which weather, orientation, tilt, losses and site inputs were used. A modeled estimate is a comparison tool, not a substitute for inspecting the property or a contractual guarantee.
Source: PVWatts: Estimate limitations. Reviewed 2026-10-05.
Will solar power my home during a blackout?
A typical grid-connected system shuts down during an outage. Backup requires equipment and a design that can safely operate separately from the grid. Confirm the actual backup capability of the proposed configuration rather than assuming panels alone provide it.
Source: DOE: Rooftop solar during outages. Reviewed 2026-10-05.
What should I ask about a battery?
Ask which circuits it will power, usable energy, output power, expected runtime under your selected loads, reserve settings and charging during an outage. Storage must be designed for the intended backup task; the presence of a battery is not a whole-home backup promise.
Source: DOE: Solar and resilience. Reviewed 2026-10-05.
Will adding a battery always pay for itself?
No universal answer follows from the hardware name. Ask for an analysis of your tariff, usage, installed cost and operating assumptions. Separate the value you place on resilience from projected bill savings; both can matter, but they are different goals.
Your decision checklist
- Roof condition and replacement plan.
- Documented roof/attic and electrical observations.
- Shade inputs, dates and missing areas.
- Production model inputs and monthly estimates.
- Backup circuits, power and usable battery energy.
- Site-specific professional review and remaining uncertainties.
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About these guides
Published by Solar Survey AI, a commercial survey-services company. Our original decision checklists are recommendations; linked authorities support the referenced facts. We may benefit if you purchase our services. This is not independent certification of our company, a project-specific engineering decision or personal tax/legal advice. Local rules, contracts and site evidence control individual decisions. Reviewed October 5, 2026.
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