How to Choose a Solar Panel Installer UK 2026: 10 Essential Checks

10 Essential Checks Before Hiring a Solar Panel Installer

The UK solar installation market has matured significantly but still contains a mix of excellent installers and companies that will underdeliver. With installations costing £5,500–£22,000 depending on system size and battery storage, choosing the right installer is one of the most important decisions you will make. Here are the ten checks we recommend every UK homeowner carries out before signing a contract.

1. **MCS Certification**: The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) is the mandatory quality standard for solar installers in the UK. Without MCS, your installation does not qualify for 0% VAT, the Smart Export Guarantee, or the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. Always verify the installer's MCS number at mcscertified.com. 2. **NAPIT or NICEIC Registration**: All electrical work in the UK must be carried out by a Part P-registered electrician or notified to building control. NAPIT and NICEIC are the two main registration bodies. ElectriFusion Solutions holds NAPIT registration. 3. **Trustpilot or Google Reviews**: Look for a minimum of 50 verified reviews with an average of 4.5 or higher. Be wary of companies with very few reviews or suspiciously uniform 5-star ratings. 4. **Company age and track record**: Companies that have been trading for 5+ years have weathered market cycles and are more likely to honour long-term warranties. 5. **Panel brand and warranty terms**: Ask specifically which panels and inverters will be installed, and request the warranty documentation before signing.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

6. **Quote without a site survey**: Any reputable installer will carry out a free home survey before providing a quote. Remote quotes based on Google Maps roof measurements are unreliable and often lead to undersized or oversized systems. 7. **Pressure selling**: High-pressure tactics ("this price is only available today") are a classic rogue trader technique. A legitimate installer will give you time to compare quotes and consider your decision. 8. **Unrealistic savings claims**: If an installer is promising payback in 3 years or 80% bill reductions from a system that your energy usage doesn't support, their calculations are inflated. Ask for the methodology. 9. **No workmanship guarantee**: Panel and inverter warranties cover the equipment. A workmanship guarantee covers the installation itself. Look for minimum 10 years; ElectriFusion Solutions offers 15 years. 10. **Subcontractor-led installations**: Some companies sell installations and subcontract the work to third parties. This creates accountability gaps in the warranty chain. Ask whether the company's own engineers will carry out your installation. ElectriFusion Solutions never subcontracts installations. See our full list of accreditations and certifications.