01 / Put roof condition first
Ask when the roof was installed, what material it uses and whether repairs or replacement are planned. Have the condition reviewed by the appropriate professional rather than assuming a satellite image can establish it.
If roof work is likely, discuss the sequence before selecting an array. Ask who would be responsible for removing and reinstalling solar equipment if future roofing work is required.
02 / Understand the usable area
The entire roof is not necessarily available for panels. Vents, roof features, access and the proposed equipment arrangement all need to be considered.
Shade from nearby objects and the building itself can affect production. Ask how the assessment treats it across the year rather than only at the moment a photograph was taken.
- What roof areas are proposed and excluded?
- How was shading assessed?
- What access must remain available?
- Would planned landscaping or nearby work change the picture?
03 / Ask how the system will be supported
The roof structure and attachment approach need to suit the proposed system and local conditions. NRCan’s photovoltaic-ready guidance highlights structural capacity, attachment, wind and snow considerations.
A general statement that panels are lightweight is not a structural assessment. Ask what evidence is needed and who is responsible for obtaining it.
04 / Check the route off the roof
Panels are only part of the installation. Inverters, wiring routes, disconnects and any storage equipment need appropriate locations and an agreed scope.
Ask the proposal to explain the visible parts of the installation and any work needed inside the property. Resolve access and appearance questions while there is still time to change the plan.
A useful next step
Gather the roof’s approximate age, any available warranty or repair information and your plans for the building. Add questions to the proposal—not guesses to the design.
Background reading: Natural Resources Canada’s Photovoltaic Ready Guidelines. The guidance supports early planning; it does not replace a current property-specific assessment or local requirements.
Questions, answered.
Does a south-facing roof guarantee a good project?
No. Orientation is only one input. The condition, structure, shading, usable area, electrical arrangement and project economics still need to be evaluated.
Can I inspect the roof myself?
You can gather existing records and observations from a safe location. Do not climb onto the roof or open electrical equipment for this enquiry; arrange any physical inspection with an appropriate professional.
Further reading
For primary guidance, see Natural Resources Canada: solar energy and Ontario Energy Board: net metering. Ontario-specific rules do not apply across every province. Confirm the current requirements with your utility.