✅ 8-step Solar Panel Installation Checklist for Homeowners

Thinking about installing solar panels in the Comox Valley? Whether you're in Courtenay, Cumberland, Comox, Parksville, or Campbell River, this homeowner solar panel installation checklist will help you get prepared and avoid common surprises.

Use this as a guide to make sure your solar installation goes smoothly—from your first question to system activation.

✔️ 1. Review Your Power Bill

Start by checking your last 12 months of BC Hydro consumption, measured in kWh, to understand your average energy use. This report can be accessed and downloaded through your BC Hydro online portal, MyHydro. This helps size your solar system to meet your household's specific energy needs.

📌 Tip: Look for seasonal usage spikes—like heating in winter or A/C in summer.

✔️ 2. Check Your Roof’s Condition

Your roof should be in good shape before installing solar panels, since panels typically last 25+ years.

Ask yourself:

• Is your roof less than 15 years old?

• Is it free from leaks or sagging?

• Is it shaded by trees or nearby buildings?

  
  

📌 Tip: If your roof needs repairs or replacement soon, consider doing it before solar installation.

✔️ 3. Request a Preliminary Solar Assessment

Reach out to a local installer like Aurum Solar to get a complimentary site assessment. At this stage, they’ll use satellite tools to estimate your solar potential and let you know if your home is a good fit.

📌 No commitment required—this step is just to evaluate feasibility.

✔️ 4. Schedule an In-Home Consultation

If your home is a good fit for solar, the next step is a detailed on-site consultation. This visit will:

• Inspect your electrical panel

• Review access to your roof

• Help tailor a system design to your needs

  
  

📌 Tip: Share your energy consumption report with your solar installer prior to the meeting and ask about the solar panel rebate and interest-free loan.

✔️ 5. Understand Your Rebates and Incentives

Homeowners in BC have access to major solar incentives:

• Up to $40,000 interest-free through the Canada Greener Homes Loan

• Up to $5,000 from BC Hydro’s Solar Panel Rebate Program

To qualify for the Canada Greener Homes Loan, you’ll need to hire an NRCan-registered energy advisor to perform a pre-retrofit EnerGuide evaluation of your home. Your solar installer will be able to refer you to Energy Advisors who service your area. This assessment identifies energy upgrades—like solar panels—that can be financed through the loan.

📌 Tip: Book the energy advisor early. Demand for these evaluations can be high, and the loan application can't proceed without it.

✔️ 6. Get Familiar with the Self-Generation Program

BC Hydro’s Self-Generation Program allows you to earn energy credits for the extra power your system sends back to the grid. It’s key to maximizing your savings.

📌 Your installer will handle the application, but it’s good to know how it works.

✔️ 7. Prepare for Installation

Once your system is designed and approved:

• Ensure roof access is clear

• Notify your household of electrical work

• Expect 1–2 weeks for installation depending on the weather

  
  

📌 No municipal building permit is required for standard rooftop systems in most parts of the Comox Valley.

✔️ 8. Track Your System’s Performance

After activation, you’ll be able to monitor your system’s output via a mobile app. Keep an eye on your daily production and long-term trends to make the most of your system.

Ready to Start Your Solar Journey?

A little preparation goes a long way. Use this solar panel installation checklist to stay informed and organized as you move toward a cleaner, more energy-efficient home.

👉 Get your complimentary solar assessment at aurumsolar.ca