Flat Roof Solar Installation

Flat roof systems designed around your building.

From ballasted to fully anchored installs, every system is planned to suit the roof structure, loading requirements, and long-term performance.

Is solar suitable for flat roofs?

There’s a common belief that solar isn’t suitable for flat roofs — usually down to planning concerns or assumptions about how systems are installed.

In reality, flat roofs are often one of the best places to install solar. Panels can be set at the correct angle, positioned away from edges, and kept low-profile so they’re often not visible from ground level.

Recent updates to permitted development rules (2024) have also made this route more straightforward. In most domestic cases, flat roof solar can now be installed without planning permission, provided it’s designed within standard guidelines. Where additional restrictions apply — such as conservation areas — we factor this in from the outset and advise accordingly.

From a structural point of view, every system is designed around the building itself. We assess loading, wind uplift and fixing methods, with designs reviewed and signed off where required, to ensure everything is safe, compliant and built to last.

Flat roof installs do require a more considered approach than standard pitched roofs. Because of that, many larger installers avoid them altogether. It’s something we deal with regularly — designing and installing systems that work properly on flat roofs without compromising the building.

What’s included

Everything needed for a safe, long-lasting flat roof solar installation — designed for each roof individually.

Ballasted or anchored mounting systems
Membrane-safe detailing and sealing
Wind load and layout design
Low-profile panel positioning
Internal cable routing where possible
Scaffold and safe roof access
MCS certification and handover

Flat Roof Mounting Methods

Different flat roofs require different mounting approaches — here’s how we do it.

1 Frames positioned

2 Panels aligned

3 Ballast installed

4 Finished system

Ballasted System

1 Anchor fixed

2 Membrane applied

3 Frame installed

4 Finished system

Anchored System

Recent Installations

A selection of recent installations across London and surrounding areas.

Large flat roof system — North London

Garage roof system — Harrow

Dormer roof system — Hackney

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Yes. We use either ballasted or mechanically fixed systems, set at a low pitch to maximise performance while managing wind loading and visibility.

  • No. Systems are either non-penetrative (ballasted) or use sealed anchor points with appropriate waterproofing. Where anchors are used, installation methods are designed to maintain the integrity of the roof covering and not affect manufacturer warranties.

  • Typically around 250–350mm at the highest point, depending on the system and pitch — well below the 0.6 metre permitted development limit.

  • In most cases, no. Flat roof solar is usually permitted development on domestic properties, provided it is designed within standard guidelines. Where restrictions apply — such as conservation areas or listed buildings — we advise at the design stage and can assist with planning where required.

  • Typically between 10–15 degrees, depending on layout, spacing and wind considerations.

  • We design layouts to minimise visibility, typically setting systems back from edges and behind parapets where possible.

  • Yes — including felt, EPDM, GRP and asphalt. The mounting method is selected based on the specific roof construction.

  • Yes. We take care of all G98/G99 applications and approvals where required.

Thinking about solar for your flat roof?

We design and install flat roof solar systems across London and surrounding areas. Book a free survey and we’ll assess your roof, layout and options.