What accreditations should a solar installer have?
Short answer
The most important accreditation is MCS certification, which means the installer meets recognised standards for solar installation. Check that the installer (or the partner they use) is MCS-certified and a member of a consumer code. Electricians working on the system should be competent and registered.
MCS certification covers the design and installation of solar PV systems. It is the benchmark standard in the UK and matters for export payments and some warranties. You can verify an installer MCS status online. We install through MCS-certified partners, so you can ask for the partner MCS number and check it yourself.
A consumer code membership means the installer has committed to a code of practice and gives you access to an independent dispute resolution service if something goes wrong. This is important protection that costs you nothing but gives you a route to redress.
What should a solar quote include?
Short answer
A proper solar quote names the panel, inverter and battery makes and models, states the system size in kWp, gives a generation estimate for your roof, itemises scaffolding and electrical work, sets out warranty terms, and states the total price, deposit and payment schedule.
If any of these are missing, ask for them in writing before you sign. A quote that says "4kWp system, £6,000" without naming the equipment is not enough — you need to know exactly what you are getting so you can compare it with other quotes on a like-for-like basis.
The warranty section should cover the panel performance warranty (typically 25 years), the inverter warranty (typically 5 to 10 years), the battery warranty (typically 10 years), and the workmanship warranty (ideally insurance-backed). Insurance-backed cover means the warranty is honoured even if the installer ceases trading.
What are the red flags when choosing an installer?
Short answer
Pressure to sign on the day, refusing to leave the quote with you, no written quote, no MCS certification, no consumer code membership, requesting a large upfront deposit, and pushing a specific brand without explaining alternatives are all red flags. Walk away if you feel pressured.
A reputable installer gives you time to think, leaves the quote with you, and is happy for you to compare with other quotes. If someone insists you sign immediately to "lock in today price" or says the offer is only valid while they are at your door, that is a clear warning sign.
For a comprehensive list of warning signs, read our solar installer warning signs guide. It covers ten red flags to watch for, from pushy sales tactics to missing paperwork, and tells you what to do if you encounter them.
Should I get more than one quote?
Short answer
Yes. Getting two or three written quotes lets you compare equipment, warranties, price and finance terms side by side. Even if the first quote looks good, a second quote may reveal a better system, a longer warranty, or a lower price for the same equipment.
When comparing quotes, look beyond the total price. A cheaper quote may use lower-efficiency panels, a shorter inverter warranty, or exclude scaffolding or bird protection. A more expensive quote may include a battery or insurance-backed warranty that the cheaper one omits. Compare the total package, not just the number.
We make this easy: fill in one form and we arrange surveys with vetted installation partners who cover your postcode. You receive written quotes from different partners and compare them at your leisure. No pressure, no obligation.
How does the matching process work?
Short answer
You fill in our quote form or call 0141 230 0198. We identify which vetted partners operate in your area, arrange a survey of your property, and you receive a written, no-obligation quote. You compare quotes and choose whether to go ahead. We install through MCS-certified partners.
The process takes from a few days to a couple of weeks from first contact to written quote, depending on survey availability in your area. There is no cost and no obligation at any stage. You are in control throughout.
For a detailed walkthrough of the checks worth making on any solar quote, read our solar contract checklist. It lists twelve things to verify before you sign, from equipment specifications to cooling-off periods.
