Completing a Sale: Virtual Site Survey Guide

Learn about Palmetto's Virtual Site Survey, required for every solar project.

Andrew - LR Product Expert avatar
Written by Andrew - LR Product Expert
Updated over a week ago

All solar projects can now be fully engineered via our Virtual Site Survey or VSS, an easy-to-use and convenient way to provide Palmetto directly with the information needed to complete the Site Approval for the Final Proposal.

FEATURE OVERVIEW:

  • Required for every solar project

  • Collects property information needed to engineer the permit-ready final design

  • Can be completed by sales members or homeowners

  • Customer-specific VSS link can be shared multiple ways

  • Offers clear instructions, with example images of what is needed

mceclip1.png

HOW TO USE THE VIRTUAL SITE SURVEY:

Step 1: Access the Virtual Site Survey directly from the homeowner's opportunity page.

Step 2: Copy and paste the customer-specific link, email it directly to the homeowner, or launch it from your own device to begin the survey.

Step 3: Follow the step-by-step instructions, including answering questions about the property, and taking photos around the home. Help your homeowner answer honestly & collect quality images to avoid delays from insufficient information.

Step 4: Once complete, you should see a checkmark. Our support team will reach out to you if additional information is needed, such as a clearer image or an image from further back.


FAQs:

1) How do you determine if the roof condition is adequate for a solar installation? We ask for 3 points of information about the roof: A photo of the roof, estimated age of the roof, and an assessment of the current condition. We combined this with virtual data sources to verify the accuracy and provide additional insight into the overall quality and condition of the roof.

2) Why don't I need to take photos of the roof structure from inside the attic? We utilize virtual data points to build a profile of the project site to determine construction type, quality, and condition. The methods we use to determine structural adequacy for solar installation are both code-compliant and widely accepted by AHJs across the US.

3) What if the photos are insufficient, or unclear? We assess each project on a case-by-case basis. Palmetto will always attempt to use its databases, external sources, and expertise to fill in any missing gaps, before scheduling a Technician to visit the project site.

4) How and when will I know if the information I submitted to Palmetto is accepted to skip the Site Survey? Palmetto will review the Virtual Survey information shortly after it is submitted. If the information is accepted, we will progress the project forward within 24 hours.

5) Is there any liability for a sales rep for taking electrical photos? No, there is no precedent or liability on a rep for simply opening a panel door and taking photos. Of course, reps should exercise good judgment and not take any action other than the required photos (do not, for example, touch any breakers or wiring).

6) How will Palmetto know if there are any issues with the attic structure? We combined the virtual survey submission with virtual data sources to verify the accuracy and provide additional insight into the overall quality and condition of the roof. This includes searching for reports of fire damage or roof construction. However, partners should be aware that the goal of the Virtual survey is to speed time to installation, and not necessarily to account for edge-case issues which may arise on installation day.


Did this answer your question?