21/09/2026
A cautionary tale from a recent commercial inspection.
We were asked to inspect this rooftop solar system, and what we found is the direct result of poor original installation: drainage outlets positioned higher than the roof surface, causing standing water to pool; DC cables with no mechanical protection left sitting in that water; and panels with cells damaged as a consequence.
Unprotected DC cabling in standing water is a genuine fire risk, DC arcing is one of the leading causes of solar-related fires, and this was on a public building.
We've safely isolated the system and are now planning the remediation: lift and safely store the panels, get the roof repaired with proper drainage, reroute and replace the damaged cabling, then fully test and sign off before reconnection.
Solar is a building project as much as an electrical one. Getting the roof detailing, drainage and cable management right the first time is what separates a system that lasts 25 years from one that ends up like this.
If your business is planning a commercial installation, or you want a second opinion on an existing one, put it in the hands of a team that understands buildings as well as they understand panels. Request your free quote at renew-able.co.uk.