Your General Contractor is your go-to when it comes to knowing important deadlines for your new home build, but with Title 24 Solar Mandate so new in the industry, you may find that you need to have a heavier hand to ensure that all the permits are submitted on time. There is nothing worse than sitting in the dark on your first night in your new home so we’ve created this guide to help make sure that won’t happen!
What is Title 24? Do I really have to install solar panels on my new home build?
California’s Title 24, Section 6 Solar Mandate went into effect on January 1, 2020. The mandate requires that all new home construction includes the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.
As with any type of project, permits are required as written permission by your city or county. This helps ensure the build is held to safety standards and completed in the correct way. The process for obtaining the necessary permits for the Title 24 Solar Mandate is lengthy and challenging. You or your contractor must file for and receive permits first. It is often the most time-consuming step in the process but perhaps the most important. If the permits aren’t submitted and approved, the installation will be halted and fines administered.
When should I talk to my contractor about solar installation permits?
When you are building a new home or taking on a renovation, the last thing you want to do is manage the permits process. This is where your General Contractor comes in. They handle the permitting process and schedule for the entire build. The best time to talk to your contractor about the solar installation is at the very beginning. It is imperative that your solar contractor has access to the roof plan so the solar and roof designs can be scheduled in coordination.
How involved should I be?
Because your General Contractor is the main contact for all subcontractors, you should have limited involvement. However, if you as the homeowner are looking to expand upon the standard system, the solar contractor can liaise between both you and the general contractor in the design process.
The best course for this would be to discuss as much as you can with both contactors in the beginning to ensure your expectations are known and understood. Your contractors are a part of your team to make your dream home a reality.
What else should I know?
There’s a lot to know when it comes to the Title 24 Solar Mandate. We know how overwhelming it can be, so we’ve made a free guide to help. Download today and keep it as a handy reference when you need it.