Choosing the right installer is as important as choosing panels. A poor installation can void warranties and reduce output by 15-20%. We explain what to look for.
MCS Certification is Essential
Always use Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) certified installers. This ensures:
- Proper training and competency
- Standard workmanship warranty (10-12 years minimum)
- SEG payment eligibility
- Feed-in tariff eligibility (if applicable)
- Insurance compliance
Check the MCS register at microgeneration-certification.org to verify credentials.
What to Check
Insurance: Public liability (£6m minimum) and professional indemnity (£3m). Get proof of current policies.
Warranties: Ask for 10-year workmanship warranty minimum. Panel warranty should be 20+ years.
References: Ask for 5 recent customer references. Call them and ask about quality, timescales, and post-installation support.
Experience: How many installations have they completed? Ideally 500+. How long in business?
Guarantees: Do they guarantee output estimates? What if system underperforms?
Red Flags
- No MCS certification
- Pressure to decide immediately or limited-time offers
- Can’t provide proof of insurance
- Unwilling to provide references
- Vague about warranty terms
- Can’t explain how monitoring works
- Prices significantly below/above market rate
Getting Multiple Quotes
Always get 3-5 quotes. Expect ranges of ±10% for similar systems. Major variations suggest something’s wrong.
Typical 4kW System Cost Ranges:
| Panel Brand | Budget Range | Expected Payback |
|---|---|---|
| Budget (JA Solar, Trina) | £5,500-£6,500 | 8-10 years |
| Mid-Range (Canadian, Panasonic) | £6,500-£8,000 | 7-9 years |
| Premium (SunPower, LG) | £8,000-£10,000 | 6-8 years |
Questions to Ask Every Installer
- What’s your process for site surveys and quote generation?
- How do you assess roof structural integrity?
- What monitoring system is included?
- How long will installation take?
- What happens if my roof needs repairs?
- Will you handle planning permission applications?
- Do you apply for MCS certification?
- What’s covered by the workmanship warranty?
- Who provides post-installation support?
- How do I claim SEG payments?
After Getting Quotes
Compare on total cost, not just price. Consider:
- Panel efficiency and warranty length
- Inverter warranty (10-15 years)
- Installation quality reputation
- Post-sales support quality
- Monitoring system user-friendliness
Get Multiple Quotes
Compare free quotes from MCS-certified installers in your area with no obligation.