Rooftop solar checklist

General info only. Check with a licensed pro and your local building department.

If in doubt, stop and call a licensed professional.

Work top to bottom.

Before: planning

Do energy-efficiency upgrades first — DOE notes they make solar go further.
Check your roof's age and condition; replacing a roof later means removing panels.
Check HOA rules if you have an HOA.
Ask your utility about net metering and interconnection rules.

Get more than one bid and compare the same system size and equipment.
Ask if you will buy, lease or sign a power purchase agreement — read every term.
Ask who handles permits, inspection and utility interconnection.
Panels and inverters should meet testing standards; get warranty terms in writing.

Get 2–3 written bids. For each one, check their license or registration, read the scam red flags.
Ask for proof of insurance (liability and workers' comp).
Get a written contract with scope, price, schedule and payment steps.
Plan to collect lien waivers as you pay.

Topic	What the source says	Source
Costs trend	DOE: the cost of going solar has dropped every year since 2009.	Source page checked 2026-11-02
Installed to code	DOE: a qualified installer installs panels to meet local building, fire and electrical codes, and the system is inspected.	Source page checked 2026-11-02
Net metering	DOE: net metering credits system owners for solar power sent to the grid.	Source page checked 2026-11-02
Your rights	DOE lists consumer protection and legal aid resources if you face fraud or deception.	Source page checked 2026-11-02

Unknown Xcel Energy Colorado net metering and Solar*Rewards terms for 2026 — not checked; ask Xcel.
Unknown Federal solar tax credit status for 2026 — see our energy tax credits guide.
Unknown Installed price — get local quotes.

General guidance, not legal advice. Prices: get local quotes — we don't publish numbers without a source.