How to Choose the Right Solar Panel Installer
Choosing the right solar panel installer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when switching to renewable energy. A skilled, accredited installer will design a system that performs efficiently, protects your warranty and provides long term support. A poor installation on the other hand, can lead to costly issues and lost savings over time.
To help homeowners make an informed choice, here’s a simple 9-step checklist for selecting the right solar panel installer in your area.
Know Your Options – Panels, Batteries, EV Charging and More
Start by deciding what you want from your solar PV system. Do you need a basic PV system, or are you also interested in battery storage, EV charging or future compatibility with a heat pump? Knowing your goals early helps installers provide accurate quotes and avoid expensive upgrades and redesigns later.
Verify Credentials and Track Record
Always check that your installer is MCS certified and uses accredited products. Look for additional memberships with EPVS (Energy Performance Verification Scheme) or HIES, which protect your investment and ensure fair trading. Ask to see past installations or customer testimonials to confirm experience and reliability.
Read Reviews and Ask for References
Customer feedback is the clearest sign of a company’s service quality. Read online reviews on Google or Trustpilot and ask for photos or case studies of completed installations. A transparent installer will happily provide this information.
Check Their Policies
A professional installer should clearly outline scaffolding requirements, site safety, permitted works and exactly what’s included in the quote. If any terms seem vague, it’s a red flag, unclear pricing often leads to unexpected costs later.
Understand the Installation Process
A quality solar installation follows a clear sequence: bespoke design and feasibility study, site survey and structural check, installation, final commissioning, documentation and handover, monitoring setup and long term aftercare. Ask your installer to explain each stage and show you a visual layout of your proposed system.
Compare Price and Value – Not Just Cost
Always compare at least 2-3 detailed quotes. Look beyond the price, consider the brands of panels and inverters, expected generation, warranties, workmanship guarantees and financing options. The cheapest quote isn’t always the best value, as lower prices often mean cutting corners or lower quality equipment.
Choose a Local or Regional Installer
Working with a local installer often means faster response times, better understanding of regional regulations and more direct accountability. Local companies are also more likely to handle installations with their own teams instead of subcontractors, ensuring consistent workmanship and accurate reviews.
Avoid High Pressure Sales Tactics
A reputable installer will never rush you into signing a contract. Be cautious of “today only” offers or exaggerated savings claims. Reliable installers use EPVS verified performance estimates, meaning the figures are independently checked for accuracy. At Solar Suffolk our dedicated design experts will give you the time you need to read over your quote and make an informed decision.
Ask About Aftercare and Support
Good aftercare includes monitoring, maintenance options and clear contact channels for future queries. Choose an installer that offers ongoing support rather than one that disappears after installation.
Understanding Structural Checks and Surveys
Before installation, your roof should be inspected for condition and load bearing strength. A professional installer will confirm whether repairs or reinforcements are needed and explain the type of mounting systems used. This ensures that your solar panels are securely fitted and your roof remains watertight.
Finance and Savings – What to Ask
Solar panels can be purchased outright or through finance. When comparing offers, look carefully at the APR, total payable amount and any additional fees or conditions. Savings depend on your electricity usage, property type and system size, so the most accurate estimates come from installers who tailor designs to your home’s specific needs, like the experts at Solar Suffolk.
Why Choose a Trusted Local Solar Installer
Choosing a trusted local solar specialist means getting personal service, tailored system design and peace of mind that help is always close by. A reputable installer will guide you from consultation to installation and aftercare, ensuring your system performs efficiently and your home reaps the full benefits of clean, renewable power.
Solar on your roof. Power in your hands.
FAQs
How long does installation take?
Most domestic solar PV systems can be installed within one day. Larger or more complex projects may take up to three days, depending on roof design and system size.
Do I need planning permission?
Most residential rooftop systems are classed as Permitted Development, so no planning permission is needed. However, there are exceptions — especially for listed buildings or conservation areas — so always check with your installer.
Will solar increase my property value?
Evidence shows that a high-quality solar installation with proper certifications and warranties can boost property value and make your home more attractive to buyers.
What paperwork do I need?
Your installer should handle all required paperwork, including DNO applications, MCS certification, and, if needed, planning permissions. Be sure to confirm this before installation begins.
