If you’d like to learn how to choose a solar panel installer you’ve come to the right place. In this blog post we’re going to give you clear and simple guidance about what to look for and what you must check when considering professional installers for your solar panel system.
At the end of it you’ll be able to make a confident, informed decision and feel safe in the knowledge that you’ve done your due diligence.
TL;DR – 5 Questions You Must Ask
When comparing the various solar panel installers on the market, there are a number of questions you absolutely must ask:
- Are they properly accredited?
- Do they have strong, recent reviews?
- How clear and transparent are their quotes?
- Do they offer end-to-end support and aftercare?
- Are they local and easy to reach?
These really are core areas you need to explore in order to find a professional solar installation service that you can rely on. But why, and what answers should you be looking for?
Let’s dig into these questions a bit further.
1. Are They Properly Accredited (e.g. NICEIC)?
When it comes to solar panel installation, you need a supplier that offers professional levels of safety, reliability and compliance. To guarantee this you need to ask about accreditation and certification. In the case of installing solar panels, you need to find a business that is NICEIC-certified. NICEIC has been providing industry-recognised assessments to the building services sector since 1998 and professional solar installers should hold this credential.
All of our electrical engineers at MD Govier are NICEIC-certified.
2. Do They Have Strong, Recent Reviews?
Most consumers do this today, but it’s worth emphasising the importance of checking a company’s online reviews. Make sure there are positive, recent reviews, and look at consistency as a trust signal. It’s well worth checking a number of different review sites too, such as Google, Checkatrade and Trustpilot.
At MD Govier we have a great reputation locally and we’d recommend you check our very positive online reviews.
3. How Clear and Transparent Are Their Quotes?
So, what does a clear, transparent quote look like? It should be obviously itemised, indicating everything that you’re paying for – such as inverter, scaffold and installation. Of course you want to avoid hidden fees, but they can be hard to spot. To make sure everything is out in the open you should feel free to question a quote and ask whether there will be any other fees not mentioned. If the provider can’t give you a satisfactory answer on this, they might not be the right one for you.
We’d be more than happy to give you a quote with everything laid out clearly. In fact, you can get a no-obligation quote right here.
4. Do They Offer End-to-End Support and Aftercare?
Different solar panel installers offer different levels of service, but top-tier companies handle everything for you. This includes system design, installation, maintenance and support.
We at MD Govier are proud to count ourselves in this category and we’ll be there to help you from discussion and site assessment right through to design, approvals and planning, installation and maintenance.
5. Are They Local and Easy to Reach?
Solar installers are available throughout the UK and some will be willing to travel a long way to reach you. However, there are a number of reasons why local is better. Having a local installation company usually means better communication with you, faster support when you need it, and overall, more accountability.
MD Govier is based in Milton Keynes and our friendly, reliable and reachable team are always happy to help customers in the area.
What Does a Typical Solar Installation Involve?
Professional solar panel installation is straightforward and designed to minimise disruption to your daily routine. The process begins with a thorough site assessment, where engineers evaluate your roof’s structural integrity and solar potential, followed by custom system design using advanced modelling software.
Most installations fall under permitted development rights, and installers should handle all necessary approvals and grid connection paperwork. Prior to installation, scaffolding is erected for safe access, then the actual install begins as mounting systems are fixed to support the panels. Solar panels are precisely positioned and electrically connected, and finally, comprehensive testing ensures everything is safe and in optimal working order.
You can learn more about how solar panels are installed here.
How Much Should You Expect to Pay?
Solar panels do require some upfront investment, with a typical 3.5 kilowatt-peak system costing around £6,100, according to the Energy Saving Trust, though prices vary by system size, installer and location.
However, don’t forget that this is an investment. By using the electricity your panels generate, you can reduce your bills substantially. Based on current Energy Price Cap rates, a typical home with this system size can save between £190 and £350 a year, depending on your usage patterns and energy consumption.
Red Flags: What to Avoid in a Solar Installer
When choosing a solar installer, beware of companies offering vague pricing without detailed breakdowns. Look out for those without a physical addresses, customer reviews, or those who employ high-pressure sales tactics. These red flags often indicate poor service quality.
In contrast, we at MD Govier provide transparent pricing, have established premises, and actively encourage you to review our customer feedback.
Get a Personalised Quote Today
Hopefully you’re now confident in how to choose a solar panel installer who’ll provide the level of service that you need, and deserve.
We’d love to give you a clear estimate for your solar installation project, so get in touch today for a quote, and you can decide whether we’re the right fit for you.