Narrow Inspection Timeframe

Specify a narrow time window for system inspection

(75 Points)


a. Give installers a timeframe window of two hours or less when scheduling an inspection : 50 points

                               OR:

b. Allow installers to schedule next day inspections with a morning or afternoon window of time – 15 points


c. Allow installers to track progress and timing of inspections through telephone or web-based system – 25 points


Reasoning

Many communities have unpredictable timelines for when an inspector will come to a job site. That makes it hard for solar installers to plan their projects. By narrowing the window for a system inspection, installers can spend less time waiting on job sites, and that directly translates to cost savings.


Examples:





Denver has a two- hour inspection window, making the city one of the most efficient and timely for PV projects

The City of San Jose, CA also offers a two hour window for photovoltaic inspections

• IRECs Field Inspection Guidelines for PV Systems provide thorough and effective procedures for both residential and commercial PV inspections.
• Many code official training opportunities exist through several different initiatives across the U.S. These trainings are meant to help inspectors more safely and efficiently inspect systems and many offer continuing education credits to inspectors for participation. Examples include the photovoltaic online training project, IAEI’s certified electrical inspector program, and Underwriters Laboratories one day code official workshops.

How to make it happen


Start the conversation with the building department and assess the current policy inspection window. Reach out to local solar contractors to see what’s working well and what could be improved upon.