How You Can Properly Select a Solar Panel Installer in the UK: Factors to Consider

More and more property owners have chosen to invest in a solar panel system for their property, and a solar panel installation has indeed become an integral part of the UK landscape. Solar panels are a popular choice for many property owners in the UK looking to decrease their carbon footprint and save money on their energy bills. But there is more to it than meets the eye, and when you partner with an excellent solar panel supplier and installer, you will reap more benefits. This is why choosing an installer should never be taken lightly – on the contrary, choosing one should be done with utmost care. Selecting a reputable solar panel installer is crucial to ensure the installation is safe and, more importantly, truly effective. So how can you properly select a solar panel installer in the UK? Here are some crucial factors to consider. 

• Check their certifications and accreditations 

Before you hire a solar panel installer, the first thing you have to do is check their certifications and accreditations. For instance, the Microgeneration Certification Scheme or MCS is the UK’s scheme for quality assurance when it comes to installations involving renewable energy. Installers who are certified with the MCS have undergone the strictest and most rigorous training. In addition, they have been audited to ensure they meet the industry’s required standards. Check if a prospective installer is MCS-certified by visiting the website or looking for the MCS logo on the installer’s website. 

• Read their reviews and check any references

Another important step in choosing an installer – especially for commercial solar panels – is to read online reviews about the company and check for references. Search for reviews on websites such as Trustpilot, Checkatrade, and more. These reviews can give you an insight into the installer’s reputation and whether or not their customers are generally satisfied. Additionally, ask the potential installer to give you references from previous clients. If you can, communicate directly with their past clients and ask about their general experience with the installer.

• Compare quotes

The experts recommend getting at least three quotes from different installers to compare their rates and prices for different services. But be cautious –remember that you will get what you pay for, and quotes that seem too good to be true often are! A reputable installer will provide you with a detailed quote that includes the labour, the cost of materials, and any additional charges or fees.

• Ask them about their installation process

Before hiring an installer, understand the installation process and how it works first. For example, you should know that a good installer will often carry out a site survey to assess the suitability of your property for a solar panel installation. They should also give you a detailed plan for the installation (including the number and size of panels, their positioning, and the expected output).

• Consider their experience

Finally, you must also consider the installer’s experience. A good installer will have several years of experience installing solar panels, and they would even have a portfolio of completed projects. In addition, they should be forthright and knowledgeable about the latest innovations and technologies and should be able to provide you with a bespoke service suited to your needs.