Suitable Solar guide
Questions to ask a solar installer
A good solar quote should be clear, specific and easy to compare. These questions help UK homeowners understand what is included before agreeing to solar panels or battery storage.
Use Suitable Solar to check your postcode area, rough bill, roof direction and battery preference.
Installer credentials
Ask whether the installer is MCS-certified, who completes the installation, what experience they have locally, and whether subcontractors are used.
System design
Ask what system size is recommended, how many panels are included, which roof faces are used, how shading has been assessed, and whether optimisers are needed.
Battery recommendation
Ask what battery capacity is recommended, why that size has been chosen, how it affects self-consumption, and whether a larger battery option is worth comparing.
Savings assumptions
Ask what import rate, export rate, generation estimate and self-consumption percentage have been used. A trustworthy quote should explain the numbers rather than hide them.
Warranty and aftercare
Ask about panel warranties, inverter warranty, battery warranty, workmanship guarantee, monitoring, maintenance, fault response and who to contact after installation.
Quote details
Ask whether scaffolding, DNO notification, electrical work, bird protection, VAT, monitoring, battery installation and optional extras are included.
Homeowner FAQs
Should I ask for an MCS installer?
Energy Saving Trust recommends making sure installers are MCS-certified.
Should I get a battery quote too?
It is worth comparing, especially if you want to use more solar electricity at home.
How many quotes should I get?
Getting multiple quotes can help you compare design, equipment, warranties and price.