Requirements for rooftop photovoltaic panel installation

Do you need planning permission to install solar panels on your roof?

An increasing number of people are investing in solar energy. More and more homes are having solar panels, or solar tiles, installed on their roofs. Of course, with such installations, the topic of planning permission and building regulations often comes to the surface.

Can solar panels be installed on a roof or wall?

The installation of solar panels on a roof or wall of a private house is considered to be permitted development (i.e. doesn’t require planning permission) provided that: Panels should not be installed above the ridgeline and should project no more than 200mm from the roof or wall surface on pitched roofs.

How much weight can a solar roof hold?

Installers must only fit solar panels if they’re sure your roof can hold their weight, and carry on doing so for up to 40 years. Fortunately, most roofs in the UK are built to hold much more than a solar panel system, which usually weigh around 20kg per square metre when everything’s included.

Do I need a structural report for a flat roof solar installation?

It is also highly advised to obtain a structural report for even a small flat roof solar installation, to ensure the roof can withstand the weight of the racking, which will be heavier on a flat roof due to the nature of the racking required.

What is a roof mounted photovoltaic system guidance?

The guidance refers only to the mechanical installation of roof mounted integrated and stand-off photovoltaic systems; it provides best practice guidance on installation requirements and does not constitute fixing instructions.

Can a PV system be installed on a flat roof?

Figure 24 shows a typical PV installation on a flat roof. The only sources of rain leakage with these systems are where there are penetrations through the roof waterproofing layer. It is always good practice to avoid such penetrations because they are generally hard to seal and inspection is often difficult.