Solar

Quantity surveying and claims support for solar farm construction and solar installation packages.

Commercial challenges and how we approach them

Solar projects combine panel installation with mounting systems, site preparation, access, cabling and connections. Roof-mounted and ground-mounted packages have different construction boundaries. Equipment supply needs to be distinguished from installation and the site works that support it.

Ground-mounted foundations and actual site conditions

The Challenge

Pile refusal, different ground levels or revised drainage can change the foundation solution and array layout. Repeated small changes across a large field can materially affect the civil account.

Our approach

We reconcile the priced ground assumptions with pile tests, site records and the technical instruction. Across a large array, a small change to each foundation can become a material cost, so sampling and quantities need a clear basis. We also distinguish extra units from a changed installation method and credit foundations or work no longer required.

Module and inverter changes after procurement

The Challenge

A cheaper module or inverter can make the installation more expensive if it changes mounting, cabling or connections.

Our approach

We assess the saving alongside the revised installation quantities, cancellation charges and credits. The decision should be based on the total change, not the equipment price alone.

Grid readiness and completion tests

The Challenge

An installed array may be unable to complete the agreed testing or export milestones if the network connection is unavailable. Commissioning teams and temporary arrangements can remain for longer than priced.

Our approach

We identify which tests need the network connection and compare the actual readiness with the agreed milestones. Extra commissioning visits are assessed against the included attendance and the party responsible for the missing dependency.

Roof works hidden within a rooftop installation

The Challenge

On a rooftop scheme, strengthening, access protection and existing roof repairs may sit outside the PV quotation. Penetrations and reinstatement also need to fit the roofing requirements. Leaving those matters unresolved can produce a low apparent tender followed by substantial enabling-work extras.

Our approach

We reconcile the structural and roofing advice with the installation scope and exclusions. Required enabling work is identified before award, and later changes are valued separately from the original PV installation.