From first quote to handover
How solar installation works in California
Use these milestones to understand who handles each step, what to ask for in writing and what still needs approval.
Explore the six steps ↓
The solar installation process, step by step
The order of design, applications and approvals can vary. Ask your installer to map these milestones to your project and utility.
Prepare your goals and compare proposals
Write down your electricity usage, expected changes and backup priorities. Request an itemized proposal from each installer.
Keep: your common project brief and each dated quote.
Start with the quote request template →Confirm the site and design
Have the installer review roof condition, shading, equipment locations and electrical work. Ask which parts of the initial estimate depend on that visit.
Keep: the proposed layout, equipment models and written changes to scope or price.
Review the agreement and applications
Match the agreed equipment and work to the contract. Ask who submits the permit and utility applications, who answers corrections and how you will receive status updates.
Keep: your signed documents, payment schedule and application references.
Check the California paperwork →Arrange installation
Confirm access, the planned work dates and any expected power interruption. Have the installer explain how a discovered issue or equipment substitution will be documented before work changes.
Keep: the work schedule, project contact and approved change orders.
Complete inspection and utility approval
Physical installation and permission to operate are separate milestones. For SCE, local inspection and the required interconnection approvals precede authorization to operate. Confirm your own utility’s process and wait for its authorization before normal operation.
Keep: inspection records and the utility’s written permission to operate.
Read SCE’s installation steps ↗Learn the system and organize support
Ask the installer to demonstrate monitoring and explain what happens if production stops. For storage, review the selected operating mode and backup circuits with the installer.
Keep: your equipment list, warranty documents, monitoring access and service contacts.
Use the handover checklist ↓
How long does solar installation take?
The time spent fitting equipment is only part of the project. Design changes, permit review, inspection corrections and utility review can affect the overall schedule. Request milestone dates for your project instead of relying on a single installation-day estimate.
Who owns the next action? What document or approval are we waiting for? When will you give me the next update? Does this delay change a payment date or another part of the agreement?
The Department of Energy’s process guide explains roof assessment, household electricity needs and the distinction between installation time and approval time.
What should a homeowner receive after installation?
Use the same handover list as your installer. Check that you can access monitoring, find the relevant warranties and identify the first person to contact about a problem. Ask the installer to explain any outstanding item and when it will be delivered.
Open the shared handover checklist →