CSI Division 26 · Specialty Trades
Solar Estimating
Modules, racking, inverters and DC and AC runs, with the roof attachment method, structural review and interconnection that decide whether the array happens at all.
- EA
- modules, inverters, optimisers
- KW
- system capacity, racking
- LF
- conduit, wire, cable tray
- LS
- interconnection, permits, commissioning
Scope
What we measure.
Measured from
PV layout, single-line diagram, racking details and the equipment specifications
- 01PV Modules · 450w
- 02Racking & Attachment
- 03Inverters / Optimizers
- 04DC/AC Conduit & Wire
- 05Grounding & Bonding
Where bids go wrong
What other solar estimates miss.
Roof attachment and flashing method, which is a roofing warranty question before it is a solar one.
Structural review of the existing roof for the added dead and wind load.
Interconnection, utility application, metering and the point of common coupling.
Rapid shutdown, labelling and the inspection requirements of the local jurisdiction.
Sample takeoff
How solar line items come back.
Every quantity is traceable to the sheet it came from, in the units the trade buys in.
- Quantities traced to the sheet they came from
- Waste and productivity carried as visible lines
- Formulas intact — edit any rate
| CSI | Line item | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| 26 31 00 | Pv modules — 450w | 248 EA |
| 26 31 00 | Racking & attachment | 111.6 KW |
| 26 31 00 | Inverters / optimisers | 6 EA |
| 26 05 33 | Dc/ac conduit & wire | 1,860 LF |
| 26 05 26 | Grounding & bonding | 1 LS |
FAQ
Solar Estimating, answered.
Talk to an estimator
Not a salesperson. Same-day answers on working days.
+1 518 974 7222[email protected]Do you estimate rooftop and ground-mount solar?
Yes. Racking, modules, inverters and balance of system are measured for each mounting type.
Is interconnection included?
Interconnection equipment is measured from the single-line diagram. Utility fees are listed as an exclusion.
Can you use our cost book and labor rates?
Yes, and we prefer it. Your historical costs reflect your crews and your suppliers better than any published average. Send the template and we work inside it.
How does pricing work?
Pricing is per project and quoted before any work starts — no retainer, no minimum volume and no subscription.
Do you sign NDAs?
Yes. Drawings, specifications and pricing are treated as confidential by default, and we sign your NDA on request before any documents change hands.
Start a quote
Need solar numbers for your next bid?
Pick your project type and send the drawings. We confirm the fee and delivery date within the hour on working days.