TecTopics: Solar Installations on Warranted Roofs

When considering rooftop solar, it is important to make sure the roof system is designed to last for the expected life of the solar array. It should also be designed to maximize solar power generation and must stand up to any additional foot traffic for maintenance of the solar panels.

This guide lays out the steps to follow for maintaining warranty coverage when installing a solar array on a Carlisle roof.

For additional information and solar-related questions about inspections and warranties, please contact Carlisle’s Warranty Department at (800) 441-9773.

---

New roofs (solar installed within 1 year of roof completion date on warranty):

1. Warranty inspection:

• Applicator files a notice of completion with Carlisle and notifies Carlisle that solar panels will be installed on the roof.
• Carlisle Field Service Representative (FSR) completes the inspection for warranty with the applicator. Roof must pass inspection and warranty fee must be paid prior to solar installation.

2. Pre-solar panel installation:

• Prior to installation, the building owner must complete and return Carlisle's Letter of Compliance form for solar projects. This letter outlines warranty requirements and provides Carlisle Warranty Administration with solar project information.

3. Solar panel installation:

• Solar panels are installed. Note: Carlisle recommends that solar racking is anchored to a structural component of the building. Attachment methods that rely on a weld or adhesion directly to the roof membrane will not be accepted.
• Any roof penetrations or anchors must be installed or flashed by a Carlisle authorized applicator per Carlisle specifications and details.
• For more information about which anchors and racking systems can be used, click here. Note: Penetrations or anchors for solar racking must be accessible to allow inspection by a Carlisle Field Service Representative at time of post installation Inspection for inclusion in warranty.

4. Post-installation inspection:

• Notify Carlisle Warranty Administration that the solar installation is complete.
• The roof must be reinspected for damage and proper installation of any new details.
• Any damage must be repaired prior to acceptance for warranty continuation.
• Existing roofs (solar installed more than 1 year after roof completion date on warranty):
• When solar panels are installed on an existing Carlisle warranted roof (1 year or more from completion date on the roof system warranty), only a post-installation inspection is required since the final inspection for warranty was already completed.

---

1. Pre-installation:

• Prior to installation, the building owner must complete and return Carlisle's Letter of Compliance form for solar projects. This letter outlines warranty requirements and provides Carlisle Warranty Administration with solar project information.
• Refer to step 3 under "New roofs" for compatible solar attachment anchors and racking.

2. Post-installation inspection:

• Notify Carlisle Warranty Administration that solar has been installed on the roof.
• The roof must be inspected for damage and proper installation of any new details. Inspection fee of $.05 per square foot ($500 minimum) must be paid prior to scheduling inspection.
• Any damage must be repaired prior to acceptance for warranty continuation.

---

For more information, check out the following resources:

Rooftop Solar Installation Guide
The Solar Ready Roof Brochure