Before buying: measure the real slab/deck, verify permit and wind/snow requirements locally, and confirm current model specifications with the manufacturer. PergolaSpec has not physically tested every product listed.
Before buying: ask the seller for the exact motor/control wiring requirements and mark who owns trenching, conduit, branch circuit, transformer, disconnect, commissioning and inspection. “Motorized kit” does not mean the site electrical scope or permit documents are included.
Electrical scope sheet
| Decision field | Question for seller / electrician | Close the gate with |
|---|---|---|
| Input power | Voltage, amperage, dedicated-circuit and protection requirements for this configuration? | Current installation/wiring document |
| Control location | Where are controller, transformer, receiver and service access? | Dimensioned equipment layout |
| Cable route | Underground, surface conduit, post cavity or house penetration? | Site route with trench/repair responsibility |
| Disconnect / weather rating | What local disconnect and enclosure requirements apply? | Electrician scope and product ratings |
| Sensors / automation | What happens during rain, high wind, outage or sensor failure? | Operating procedure and manual override |
| Lighting / heaters / outlets | Separate loads, circuits, controls and clearances? | Accessory schedule and load calculation |
| Commissioning | Who pairs controls, checks limits and demonstrates safe operation? | Named installer and acceptance checklist |
Permit package to request before deposit
- Site plan and exact outside/post dimensions.
- Manufacturer drawings for the selected model, size and motor zones.
- Foundation/baseplate/anchor detail tied to local design criteria.
- Electrical one-line or installation requirements for controls and accessories.
- Attachment/flashing detail if connected to the house.
- Responsibility for revisions, inspections and as-built changes.
Avoid these scope leaks
- Low-voltage controls quoted while the branch circuit is owner-supplied but unpriced.
- Lighting shown in renderings but absent from the selected configuration.
- Sensor behavior assumed to be structural protection without a written operating limit.
- Permit drawings promised only after a non-refundable order.
Add electrical and permit lines to the installed budget →
Then verify the selected model's public wind, footing and warranty evidence in the installed-cost and wind index.