Do I Need Building Regulations Approval For Solar Panels

Building regulations also apply to other aspects of the work such as electrical installation.

Do i need building regulations approval for solar panels. With the installation of roof mounted solar panels becoming increasingly popular it is important to recognise that building regulations will normally apply should you wish to fit them to your roof. The ability of the existing roof to carry the load weight of the panel will need to be checked and proven. Some strengthening work may be needed. Scotland has some additional rules regarding solar panels on exterior walls blocks or flats and flat roofed buildings listed buildings and world heritage sites the panels must not be installed on a building that is within the grounds of a listed building or on a site designated as a scheduled monument.

Since a change in legislation in april 2008 the installation of solar panels has been deemed permitted development and therefore planning permission is not required unless the building is listed or in a conservation area. The issue here is whether the existing roof wil be able to take the extra roof loadings that solar panels will impose on it. If you wish to install a solar panel on your roof building regulations will normally apply. The key areas are structural safetyof a building part a and electrical safetyof a building part p.

You will need to check that your roof is capable of supporting the additional weight that comes with the solar panels.