How to Choose a Solar Panel Installer: 10 Questions to Ask

Quick Answer

To choose a solar panel installer, check they are MCS certified and belong to a consumer code such as RECC or HIES. Their electricians should be registered with a scheme like NICEIC or NAPIT.

Ask for an in-person survey, a written quote and clear warranties. Make sure they handle the DNO and certificate paperwork. Get at least three quotes and avoid high-pressure sales.

The 10 Questions at a Glance

1. Are you MCS certified?
2. Are you a member of a consumer code?
3. Are your electricians NICEIC or NAPIT registered?
4. Will you carry out a full site survey?
5. How did you size my system?
6. Which panels and inverter will you use?
7. What warranties and guarantees do you give?
8. Who will actually fit the system?
9. Will you handle all the paperwork?
10. What does the price include, and how much is the deposit?

Solar panels should work for 25 years or more. So the installer you choose matters as much as the panels.

A good installer designs the right system and fits it safely. They also handle the paperwork and stay around for aftercare. A poor one can leave you with low output, roof leaks or no export payments.

These 10 questions will help you tell them apart.

1. Are You MCS Certified?

This is the most important question. MCS is the UK quality scheme for small-scale renewables.

For systems up to 50kW, both installer and installation must be MCS certified. Otherwise you cannot claim the Smart Export Guarantee. That means no payment for the power you export.

Check it: ask for their MCS number. Then look it up on the MCS website.

2. Are You a Member of a Consumer Code?

Consumer codes protect you if something goes wrong. The two main codes for solar are RECC and HIES.

Both are approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute. Members must follow fair selling rules. They must protect deposits and offer independent dispute resolution.

Check it: search the installer’s name on the code’s member list.

3. Are Your Electricians NICEIC or NAPIT Registered?

Solar involves new electrical circuits. That work must meet the BS 7671 wiring regulations.

A registered electrician can self-certify the work under Building Regulations. You then receive a compliance certificate without a separate building control visit.

Ask who will do the final electrical connection. It should be a qualified, registered electrician. Our NICEIC-approved team also provides residential electrical services, including consumer unit upgrades.

4. Will You Carry Out a Full Site Survey?

A proper quote needs a proper survey. Be wary of firms that quote over the phone from a satellite image alone.

A good survey checks your roof, shading, consumer unit and energy use. It may include a drone or a loft inspection.

It should also flag any roof issues before work starts.

5. How Did You Size My System and How Much Will It Generate?

Your system should be sized around your energy use and roof. It should not be a one-size-fits-all package.

Ask for a written generation estimate. MCS installers use a standard method to work this out. Be cautious of savings claims that look far higher than other quotes.

6. Which Panels and Inverter Will You Use?

A quote should name the exact brands and models. “Premium panels” is not enough detail.

Ask for the datasheets. Check the panel wattage, efficiency and warranty. Many quality panels now carry a 12 to 25-year product warranty and a 25 to 30-year performance warranty.

The inverter matters too. It usually needs replacing before the panels do.

7. What Warranties and Guarantees Do You Give?

There are three types of cover to check:

• Product warranties from the panel and inverter makers.
• A workmanship warranty from the installer for the fitting work.
• An insurance-backed guarantee. This protects your workmanship warranty if the installer stops trading.

Ask how long each lasts and what it covers. Ask who you call if something fails.

8. Who Will Actually Fit the System?

Some companies sell solar but pass the fitting to subcontractors. That is not always a problem. But you should know who is on your roof.

Ask whether the team is employed directly. Ask who signs off the electrical work and who handles aftercare.

9. Will You Handle All the Paperwork?

A good installer handles the admin for you. That includes:

• Telling your grid operator (DNO) under G98, or applying under G99 for larger systems.
• Registering the system and issuing your MCS certificate.
• Issuing an electrical installation certificate.
• Notifying building control through their competent person scheme.
• Checking planning rules for your property.

You will need these documents for your export tariff, insurance and future house sale.

10. What Does the Price Include, and How Much Is the Deposit?

Solar quotes can look similar but include very different things. Check whether yours covers:

• Scaffolding and access equipment.
• Bird mesh, if pigeons are common locally.
• A monitoring app or display.
• Any consumer unit upgrade needed.
• Removal of packaging and waste.
• Aftercare and system checks.

Ask how much deposit is needed and how it is protected. Never pay the full amount before the work is done.

What Are the Red Flags When Choosing a Solar Installer?

Walk away if you notice any of these:

• Pressure to sign on the day, or “today only” discounts.
• Cold calls promising “free” solar panels.
• No MCS number, or one that does not match their name.
• A quote with no named equipment.
• Savings claims far higher than other quotes.
• Requests for full payment upfront.
• No physical address or landline.

Should I Choose a Local Solar Installer?

Often, yes. A local firm can survey in person and reach you quickly if a fault appears. They also rely on their reputation in your area. Our residential solar installation team is based in Langford, Bedfordshire.

National firms can offer good prices. But check who handles repairs and how long you may wait.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my solar installer need to be MCS certified?

For most homes, yes. Systems up to 50kW need an MCS-certified installer and installation to qualify for the Smart Export Guarantee. Without it, you may not get paid for the power you export.

How can I check if a solar installer is genuine?

Check their MCS number on the MCS website. Look them up on their consumer code’s member list, such as RECC or HIES. Check Companies House, and read recent reviews.

How many solar quotes should I get?

Get at least three written quotes. Compare the equipment, warranties and what is included, not just the price.

How much deposit should a solar installer ask for?

Consumer code members usually take a modest deposit and protect it. Be wary of anyone asking for most or all of the cost upfront.

What paperwork should I get after a solar installation?

You should receive an MCS certificate, an electrical installation certificate and Building Regulations compliance. You should also get your DNO reference, warranty documents and a handover pack.

Is it better to use a local solar installer?

Often, yes. A local installer can survey in person, respond faster to faults and has a reputation to protect in your area.