Aldi Pre-Installation Roof Survey for Solar Panel Works
Project Overview
Surveyroof was appointed by a major national solar installation company to carry out a comprehensive pre-installation roof survey at the ALDI RDC Scotland. The objective was clear. Before any solar works began, the client needed an independent, unbiased assessment of the existing waterproofing so that any defects could be repaired by the building owner, protecting the installer from liability and ensuring a safe and defect-free platform for the upcoming PV system.
The surveyed roof formed part of the large chilled distribution facility and consisted of a Sika single ply membrane system covering 11,728 m².
Scope of Works
Our independent roof survey included:
- Membrane Condition Survey using both dry (Holiday Detector) and wet (Earth Leakage Leak Detection) test methods
- Full visual and physical inspection, including probing of laps, welds, seams, and details
- Moisture mapping where required to assess substrate conditions
- Production of drawings and photographic evidence highlighting each breach and its exact location
All surveys were completed using non-destructive methods to protect the integrity of the waterproofing.
Key Findings
No additional water entry pathways were identified beyond the membrane defects, and no other trades were present during testing, ensuring clarity over the origin of any damage.
Breakdown of defects included:
- Physically marked on the roof
- Photographed
- Located on the final survey sketch drawing
This allowed the solar contractor and ALDI to review all issues and take targeted remedial action.
Why This Roof Survey Was Essential
Solar installations add weight, penetrations, and mechanical movement to a roof system. Identifying issues before installation prevents:
- Water ingress beneath new solar infrastructure
- Future claims or disputes over pre-existing defects
- Costly post-installation access, shutdown, and panel removal
- Reduced membrane lifespan due to trapped moisture or unnoticed punctures
This is why independent roof surveys like this are now becoming a standard part of solar deployment across the UK.
Outcome for the Client
The independent survey enabled:
- Clear visibility of every defect affecting waterproofing integrity
- Accurate repair instructions for the building owner
- Zero liability exposure for the solar installer
- Safe progression to PV installation planning
- Confidence that the roof could support long-term renewable infrastructure
The final deliverable included a detailed Membrane Condition Survey report, photographic library, and site drawing for ALDI’s facilities team and the solar contractor.
