Planning Permission: What you need to know

Building Regulations

All solar panel installations must comply with the relevant building regulations, which cover issues such as structural stability, fire safety, and electrical safety.

Electrical safety regulations

All solar panel installations must comply with the relevant electrical safety regulations, which cover issues such as earthing, insulation, and protection against overvoltage.

Health and safety regulations

The installation, maintenance and operation of solar panels must comply with the relevant health and safety regulations, which cover issues such as working at height, electrical safety, and equipment maintenance.

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Maintenance

In terms of maintenance, solar panels require little maintenance, but it is important to keep them clean and free from debris in order to maximise their efficiency. Regular inspections and maintenance may also be required to ensure that the panels are working properly and to identify any potential issues.

Panel level monitoring – optimiser.

Notify the local building control authority

Before you start the installation process, you should notify the local building control authority, either by submitting a building notice or by applying for full plans approval. This is to ensure that the installation complies with the relevant building regulations.

Obtain structural calculations

If your solar panel installation is not being mounted on an existing structure, you will need to obtain structural calculations from a qualified engineer or surveyor. The calculations will need to demonstrate that the structure is strong enough to support the weight of the solar panels, as well as any additional equipment, such as inverters and cables.

Ensure adequate ventilation

Solar panels can generate a lot of heat, so it is important to ensure that there is adequate ventilation around the panels to prevent overheating. The installation should include vents or other forms of ventilation to allow air to circulate.

Ensure safe access and working at height

When installing solar panels, it is important to ensure safe access for maintenance and cleaning, as well as to ensure that the installation is safe for those working at height. This may involve installing safety rails or other safety equipment to prevent falls.

Ensure electrical safety

Solar panel installations involve the installation of electrical equipment, so it is important to ensure that the installation complies with the relevant electrical safety regulations. This may include the installation of safety switches, the use of suitable cabling and connectors, and the provision of adequate earthing.

Obtain completion certificate

Once the installation is complete, you will need to obtain a completion certificate from the local building control authority. This certificate demonstrates that the installation complies with the relevant building regulations and can be useful if you decide to sell your property in the future.

Overall, the process for complying with building regulations when installing solar panels can be complex and time-consuming, but it is important to ensure that the installation is safe, structurally sound, and energy-efficient. By following the appropriate steps and seeking advice from qualified professionals where necessary, you can ensure that your solar panel installation complies with all relevant regulations and is a safe and effective way to generate renewable energy.

Initial consultation

Sheerwater Solar will provide an initial consultation to discuss your requirements and assess your property’s suitability for solar panels. We will also provide advice on the most suitable type of solar panel system for your needs and explain the costs involved.

Site survey

Sheerwater Solar will carry out a site survey to assess the roof’s condition, orientation, and shading. This information is important to determine the size and positioning of the solar panel system and to ensure that it will generate the maximum amount of energy possible.

Design and installation

Sheerwater Solar designs and installs the solar panel system to comply with all relevant regulations, including building and electrical safety regulations. We also ensure that the installation is completed to a high standard, using high-quality equipment and materials.

Part P of the Building Regulations

Part P of the Building Regulations applies to all electrical installations in domestic properties and sets out the requirements for electrical safety in the home. Sheerwater Solar ensures that the electrical work associated with the installation of the solar panel system complies with Part P.

IET Wiring Regulations

The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) Wiring Regulations (also known as BS 7671) sets out the requirements for electrical installations in the UK. Sheerwater Solar ensures that the electrical work associated with the installation of the solar panel system complies with these regulations.

Electrical isolation

The solar panel system should be designed and installed in such a way that it can be safely isolated from the mains electricity supply. This is important for maintenance and servicing and for ensuring the safety of those working on the system.

Protection against overcurrent

The solar panel system should be protected against overcurrent by the use of suitable fuses or circuit breakers. This is to prevent damage to the system and to protect against the risk of fire.

Suitable cabling and connectors

Sheerwater Solar ensures that the solar panel system is installed using suitable cabling and connectors that are rated for the correct voltage and current. This is important for ensuring the safety and efficiency of the system.

Sheerwater Solar has a thorough understanding of the electrical safety regulations that apply to the installation of solar panel systems. We ensure that the system is designed and installed in compliance with these regulations, to ensure the safety and efficiency of the system.