Selecting Your Installer
Choosing the right solar installer is one of the most important decisions you'll make on your solar journey. A good installer will design a system tailored to your home, use quality components, and stand behind their work for years to come. This guide walks you through exactly what to look for — and what to ask — before signing on the dotted line.
1. Check Accreditations First
Before you even look at prices, make sure any installer you're considering holds the right accreditations. This is non-negotiable.
| Accreditation | What It Means | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) | Government-backed quality standard for installers | Usually required for SEG & warranty |
| RECC (Renewable Energy Consumer Code) | Consumer protection code of practice | Dispute resolution & consumer safeguards |
| HIES (Home Insulation & Energy Systems) | Independent consumer code backed by CTSI | Insurance-backed guarantees |
MCS certification is essential— Without MCS certification, you may not be eligible for the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) — meaning you won't get paid for the electricity you export to the grid. Always verify an installer's MCS status independently at mcscertified.com.
2. Get at Least Three Quotes
Never go with the first quote you receive. Getting at least three quotes gives you a realistic picture of pricing and helps you spot outliers — both unusually cheap and overpriced.
Each quote should include a detailed breakdown of:
- All components — panels, inverter, battery (if applicable), mounting, and cabling
- Scaffolding and electrical work — these are sometimes listed separately
- Estimated annual generation — in kWh, specific to your property
- Projected savings — and the electricity price assumptions used to calculate them
- DNO application — confirm your installer handles the Distribution Network Operator notification
Share your quotes in the community before committing— members are always happy to give a second opinion and help you spot anything that doesn't look right.
3. Verify Experience and Reputation
A polished website doesn't always mean a quality installation. Dig a little deeper before committing:
- Check independent reviews — look at Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and local Facebook groups rather than testimonials on the installer's own website
- Ask for recent references — a confident installer will happily connect you with previous customers
- Look for evidence of work — photos, case studies, or examples of installations on properties similar to yours
- Prioritise recent feedback — a company's service quality can change over time. Focus on reviews from the past 6–12 months
4. Insist on a Tailored System Design
A reputable installer won't offer you a one-size-fits-all package. They should carry out a thorough site survey and design a system around your home and your energy usage.
A proper survey should cover:
- Roof orientation and pitch — to maximise generation potential
- Shading analysis — trees, chimneys, neighbouring buildings assessed throughout the day and across seasons
- Roof condition — ensuring it can support panels without needing repairs first
- Your energy consumption — reviewing your actual usage patterns to right-size the system
- Panel layout — optimised placement rather than simply filling available roof space
Watch out for generic packages— Be cautious of any installer who quotes you a fixed system size without visiting your property or asking about your energy usage. A system that's too small won't cover your needs; one that's too large may not offer the best return.
5. Understand Warranties and Aftercare
Warranties are your long-term safety net. Make sure you know exactly what's covered — and for how long.
| Component | Typical Warranty | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Solar Panels | 25–30 years (performance guarantee) | Both product and performance warranties |
| Inverter | 5–12 years (extendable on some models) | Ask if an extended warranty is available |
| Battery | 10–15 years | Check cycle count as well as years |
| Workmanship | 5–10 years | Covers installation quality and roof integrity |
Also ask about ongoing maintenance and aftercare support. Will the installer help if something goes wrong in year three? Do they offer annual check-ups or monitoring?
6. Local vs. National Installers
Both local and national installers have their strengths. The best choice depends on your priorities.
| Local Installers | National Installers | |
|---|---|---|
| Service | More personalised, direct contact | Standardised processes |
| Aftercare | Often faster response times | May route through call centres |
| Pricing | Competitive, less overhead | Sometimes offer finance deals |
| Installation | Flexible scheduling | May have shorter lead times |
| Reputation | Easier to verify locally | Established brand, wider reviews |
Word of mouth matters — Many community members have found that local installers offer a more hands-on experience and are easier to reach if anything needs attention after installation. Recommendations from neighbours or local social media groups can be invaluable.
7. Questions to Ask Every Installer
Before making your decision, put these questions to each installer you're considering:
- Are you MCS certified? — Always verify independently at mcscertified.com.
- How are you accounting for shading and roof orientation in the design?
- What is the estimated yearly generation (kWh) for this specific system on my property?
- What electricity price have you used to calculate my savings estimate?
- Does the quote include all electrical work, scaffolding, and the DNO application?
- What warranties do you provide? — Panels, inverter, battery, and workmanship.
- Can you provide recent references or examples of similar installations?
- What aftercare or maintenance support do you offer post-installation?
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