Should roof condition and remaining service life be checked before installing PV mounts?

Yes. Before mounting hardware is installed, have the roof’s condition and expected service life assessed against the planned PV system, and complete any needed repairs or upgrades before installation. DOE notes that coordinating a roof replacement with solar can avoid later panel removal and reinstallation. Carlisle recommends consulting the roofing manufacturer where a warranty is involved, completing and reinspecting required repairs, and allowing access for future roof maintenance. This is not a universal “replace the roof” rule or a fixed-age threshold: the decision depends on the roof’s actual condition, planned work, manufacturer requirements, and installer coordination.

Sources: U.S. Department of Energy, Replacing Your Roof? It’s a Great Time to Add Solar (July 28, 2021): https://www.energy.gov/articles/replacing-your-roof-its-great-time-add-solar Carlisle SynTec Systems, TecTopics: Recommendations for Roof Mounted Solar Panel Installations (September 30, 2024), Warranty Consultation and Pre-Installation Inspection: https://www.carlislesyntec.com/en/Resources/Media/Blog-Landing-Page/TecTopics/2024/09/24/Recommendations-for-Roof-Mounted-Solar-Panel-Installations