Inspection

An inspection is the official on-site review of a completed solar installation by a local building or electrical inspector to verify that the system was installed according to the approved permit plans and meets all applicable codes and safety standards.

Most residential solar installations require at least one inspection, though some jurisdictions require two (a rough/structural inspection during installation and a final inspection after completion). The inspector checks a comprehensive list of items including: correct wire sizes and types, proper grounding and bonding, secure racking attachment, appropriate disconnect switches, accurate labeling, fire code setback compliance, rapid shutdown capability, and match to the approved electrical diagrams. If the inspector finds violations, you’ll receive a correction notice listing the issues that must be fixed before the installation can pass. Your solar installer is responsible for scheduling the inspection and correcting any deficiencies. A passed inspection is required before the utility will grant Permission to Operate (PTO). Inspection wait times vary from same-week to several weeks depending on the jurisdiction. Some areas have adopted virtual or photo-based inspections to speed the process.