Path-Q Solar
What should I do if my solar project needs a roof upgrade that was not mentioned initially?
Answer
Pause acceptance of the revised work until the roof condition, required upgrade, cost, responsibility, and effect on the solar design are documented. Obtain an independent roofing assessment if the need is disputed or substantial, and compare completing the roof work now with delaying solar until the roof is suitable.
Key points
- Ask what defect or condition triggered the recommendation and request photos or inspection findings.
- Determine whether the work is required for safety, attachment, warranty, code compliance, or merely preferred.
- Obtain separate roofing scope and pricing where practical.
- Clarify whether panels, racking, warranties, permits, and schedule change after the roof upgrade.
- Do not allow unapproved extra work or cost to proceed solely from a verbal instruction.
What it depends on
- Nature and severity of the roof condition
- Roofing and solar scopes and warranties
- Whether the original proposal included roof inspection or exclusions
- Effect of the upgrade on design, schedule, and total cost
Risks and trade-offs
- Proceeding without roof work can risk leaks, attachment failure, or later removal and reinstallation.
- Adding roof work increases cost and may expose disagreements about responsibility.
- A second inspection takes time but can prevent unnecessary or incomplete work.
Information you may need
- Original proposal, exclusions, and inspection records
- Written roof findings, photos, and recommended scope
- Independent roofing assessment if needed
- Revised solar design, price, warranties, and schedule
Your next step
What to do next
Request a written change explanation and revised itemized proposal, obtain an independent roof opinion for significant work, and proceed only after agreeing on scope and responsibility.
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