What LA Homeowners Must Do Before Installing Solar

Southern California electricity rates keep climbing, and Los Angeles homeowners are turning to rooftop solar as a long-term solution. Before the first panel goes up, though, a little preparation can save weeks of delay and protect your investment. This 2025 guide walks you through the essential steps to get your home solar-ready—so your project with US Power starts strong and finishes on time.

1. Assess Your Roof’s Health and Lifespan

A solar array typically lasts 25–30 years. If your roof is nearing the end of its life or shows signs of damage, re-roofing before installation is cost-effective and prevents the need for panel removal later. US Power’s team performs a detailed roof assessment and will let you know if upgrades are needed before we design your system.

2. Evaluate Your Home’s Energy Profile

Review at least 12 months of utility bills to understand your consumption patterns. Factor in future changes like an EV charger, pool pump, or planned home additions. The more accurate your forecast, the better we can size a system that meets your long-term energy goals under California’s latest net metering rules.

3. Verify Electrical Panel Readiness

Many older homes in Los Angeles have undersized main panels that cannot safely accommodate a solar backfeed. A quick inspection by a licensed electrician (or US Power’s installation team) confirms whether you need an upgrade—avoiding surprise delays during permitting.

4. Clear Space Around the Installation Area

Trimming nearby trees and removing debris ensures unshaded production and safe work conditions for installers. Panels thrive on full sun; even partial shading can lower output and affect long-term savings.

5. Understand Local Permits and Utility Requirements

The City of Los Angeles, LADWP, and Southern California Edison each have unique interconnection and permit processes. US Power manages these steps on your behalf, but gathering basic documents—recent utility bills, roof plans, HOA guidelines—speeds approvals.

6. Plan for Optional Battery Storage

With California’s time-of-use rates and frequent grid alerts, many homeowners pair solar with batteries for backup and peak-shaving. Preparing a dedicated space in your garage or side yard simplifies installation if you decide to add storage now or in the future.

7. Set Up Monitoring Access

Modern systems come with online dashboards or mobile apps to track performance, spot issues, and confirm savings. US Power provides onboarding so you can log in, see real-time production, and verify your investment is paying off from day one.

8. Budget for the Long Term

Even with tax credits, solar is a major purchase. Take advantage of the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) while it lasts and explore local incentives. US Power’s team outlines upfront costs, financing options, and projected ROI so you make an informed decision.

Why Preparation Pays Off

A home that’s ready for solar installation means fewer change orders, faster approvals, and an optimized design tailored to your lifestyle. Proactive steps like roof maintenance and panel upgrades keep your project on schedule and protect decades of clean energy production.

Partner with US Power for a Seamless Experience

As a Los Angeles–based solar installer with a direct partnership with Qcells, US Power brings factory-direct pricing, top-tier panels, and unmatched local expertise. From the first site visit to final inspection, we handle every detail—so you enjoy dependable energy savings without the headaches.

Ready to turn your roof into a power plant? Schedule your free solar consultation with US Power today and see how effortless going solar can be.