Roof Certification for Solar Panels

I’m preparing to install my own solar array but, before the city will issue a permit, they require a licensed structural engineer’s certification confirming that my roof can handle the additional loads. The roof is a pitched, shingle-covered structure. I don’t currently have a full set of structural drawings, yet I can obtain the original blueprints from the county archives if that will streamline your calculations.

Here’s what I need from you:

• An on-site or photo-assisted assessment of the existing roof framing
• Load calculations showing capacity for the specific solar mounting system I’ll be using
• A signed and stamped engineering letter/report that meets local building-department submission standards

Please include in your proposal how you prefer to gather the required measurements, any software you typically use (e.g., RISA, SAP2000, Revit), and an estimated turnaround time once you have the data. City approval hinges on this letter, so clarity and compliance with code are essential.