With the roll-out of GB Energy funding, public sector estates – including NHS Trusts, have a clear opportunity to reduce energy costs and carbon output through rooftop solar PV systems. However, to make the most of this investment, it’s essential to start in the right place: the roof. Rob Wall, Technical manager at Garland UK, explains why roofing condition is a critical factor in solar success, and how the right approach can maximise value, avoid disruption, and futureproof estates.
Your roof might not be ‘solar-ready’
He explains: “While solar panels are built to last 25-30 years, many flat roofs – especially in legacy NHS estates, are already nearing the end of their usable life. Installing solar on an ageing or damaged roof risks significant disruption and added costs down the line. Water ingress, poor drainage, failing membranes, or inadequate insulation, can all undermine solar infrastructure – and if repairs are needed post-installation, removing and reinstalling panels can significantly reduce your return on investment.”
The ‘lifecycle mismatch’
According to NHS ERIC data and BS 6229:2018, many roofs across healthcare estates are well into their third decade. That means solar systems could outlive the surface they rely on.
Rob Wall says: “This mismatch in lifecycle leads to premature failures, unplanned capital spending, and – worst case – having to decommission the system early, right when it's meant to deliver peak performance.”
Roof condition surveys
A thorough roof condition survey is the simplest way to avoid future issues, Garland UK maintains. The company supports NHS estates by delivering in-depth assessments that cover roof structure, thermal performance, and compatibility with solar loads. Rob Wall says: “Our surveys include core sampling, on-site inspections, and detailed reports that enable Estates teams to make informed, long-term decisions. In many cases, combining roof refurbishment with solar installation proves more cost-effective and less disruptive than handling each separately.”
Compliance, safety, and coordination
For healthcare settings, technical standards and compliance are non-negotiable. Solar installations must align with the NHS Premises Assurance Model (PAM), HTMs, and broader fire and access safety protocols.
Questions every Estates team should ask include:
· Can the roof handle the structural load of PV systems?
· Will installation create pooling risks or compromise drainage?
· Does the project meet fire and access standards for clinical environments?
· Can insulation upgrades improve building-wide energy efficiency?
Planning roofing and solar works in isolation often leads to design clashes, safety concerns, and missed opportunities, says Garland UK, which stresses that ‘an integrated approach ensures that both systems work together from the outset’.
Built to last, backed by experts
“Solar PV is a powerful step toward decarbonisation, but only when the foundation is solid, says Rob Wall. “Starting with the roof helps avoid setbacks, reduce risk, and ensure long-term return on public investment. Book a free roof condition survey and solar yield analysis to plan your solar-ready strategy today.”
