Solar panel inspection checklist

Solar panel inspection checklist and information:

Failed solar panel inspections are quite common, that’s why a proper solar installation has to be performed by following strict building and electrical codes. It is important that you choose a solar contractor that knows how these codes apply to your specific geographic location. Failing to honor electrical or building codes may prolong the installation process and may even incur extra costs to the customer. 

Table of contents:

1. Solar Panel Inspection Checklist (Before Inspection)
2. Solar Panel Inspection Checklist (During Inspection)

1) Solar panel Inspection checklist (Before Inspection):

• Breakers: 

Do all breakers on-site match with those of the plans?

Does the breaker ampacity match with those of the plans? 

Is the breaker ampacity enough for the system?

• Wire Gauges:

Are the wires thick enough? 

Do the AWGs numbers match the plan set?

• Grounding conductors: 

Is the whole solar-panel system correctly bonded?

Are the rails bonded? 

• Labeling Stickers: 

Are all the labeling stickers glued on the correct places? 

Are the AC labels on the AC side and DC labels on the DC side?

• Hanging conductors: 

Are there any conductors hanging off the rails or off the panels?

Are there any wires touching the roof surface?

• Water intrusion:

 Is there any electric equipment vulnerable to water intrusion?

Are there any cracked tiles, unflashed stands or angled lag-screws?

• Disconnects:

Are all the on-site disconnects found on the plan package?

Are there sufficient DC or AC disconnects?

• Datasheets:

Does the plan package include data-sheets on the installed equipment? 

2) Solar Panel Inspection Checklist (During Inspection)

• Have a ladder ready for the inspector to climb up the roof, make sure the ladder is at least 2-3 ft above the roof’s eave

• Open up all electrical equipment (including electrical panels, inverters, etc)

• Get your tools ready in case the inspector wants to unmount a panel or something else

• Check the plans, make sure you understand them

• With the inspector be: assertive, responsive and professional

• If the inspection fails, take notes of all the inspector comments, these should be addressed.