Check My Roof for Solar Panels
Quick answer
Not sure whether your roof suits solar panels? This page explains what makes a Scottish roof suitable, from orientation and pitch to shading and roof condition, and how our survey confirms it. Use the checker for a first view, then request a survey for a firm answer.
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Not sure whether your roof suits solar panels? This page explains what makes a Scottish roof suitable, from orientation and pitch to shading and roof condition, and how our survey confirms it. Use the checker for a first view, then request a survey for a firm answer.
Orientation and pitch
South-facing roofs give the most generation, while east and west-facing roofs give a flatter daily profile. North-facing roofs are rarely worthwhile. A pitch of around 30 to 40 degrees is ideal, though lower pitches work well and flat roofs can take frames.
Shading
Shading from chimneys, dormers, trees, hills and neighbouring buildings reduces output, especially with the low Scottish winter sun. Optimisers or microinverters can reduce the impact of partial shading on some roofs.
Roof condition and type
Older slate roofs on Scottish villas and tenements can be fragile, so roof condition is checked before installation. Concrete tile roofs on post-war and modern homes are usually straightforward. If a roof needs repairs, it is better to do them before panels go on.
Flats and tenements need the agreement of other owners for shared roofs.
Solar on Scottish roofs
Scottish roofs vary more than most. Sandstone tenements in Glasgow and Edinburgh often have natural slate on steep pitches with valley gutters and rear slopes facing back greens. Granite houses in Aberdeen and the north-east frequently have dormers and chimneys that cast shade. Interwar and post-war council-built homes usually have concrete interlocking tiles that are straightforward to work on, while newer estates around Livingston, Dunfermline and Inverness tend to have simple gable roofs that suit a neat array.
Fixings are chosen for the roof covering and for the wind exposure of the site, which matters on the west coast, in the islands and on high ground. A survey also checks the roof timbers and slate condition before any panels go up, because it is far easier to fix a roof problem before an installation than afterwards.
How our survey works
Every project starts with a no-obligation survey. We look at your roof orientation, pitch, shading and condition, your fuse board and meter position, where a battery or inverter could go, and how your household uses electricity through the day and across the Scottish seasons. You then receive a written quote showing the equipment, the expected generation for your roof and the full price, so you can compare it fairly. We handle the network connection paperwork with your local distribution network operator, which is SP Energy Networks in central and southern Scotland and SSEN in the north, Highlands and islands. We install through MCS-certified partners. Solar panels and batteries are 0% VAT until March 2027. Finance available, subject to status.
Frequently asked questions
Can I put panels on an east and a west roof?
Yes. Splitting panels across east and west roofs is common and spreads generation across the day.
My roof faces north. Is there another option?
Garages, outbuildings or ground-mounted frames can sometimes work instead. We look at these on survey.
Does a conservation area stop solar?
Not always, but visible roof slopes may need consent from your council.
Related guides
Get your solar and battery quote
Tell us about your home and we will arrange a survey and a written, no-obligation quote. Finance available, subject to status.