BrightGridChoosing a solar installer is an important decision because installation quality can affect system performance, safety, reliability and long-term value. The cheapest quotation is not necessarily the best quotation.
20 questions to ask a solar installer
- What exact solar panels are included?
- What is the panel product warranty?
- What is the panel performance warranty?
- What inverter model is proposed?
- What battery model is proposed if applicable?
- How much annual generation has been estimated?
- What shading assumptions were used?
- What roof areas will be used?
- How has the system been sized?
- What electrical upgrades are required?
- Is scaffolding included?
- Are all installation costs included?
- What grid requirements apply?
- Who will carry out the installation?
- What certification will be provided?
- What workmanship warranty is included?
- How is system monitoring configured?
- Who provides aftercare?
- What happens if equipment fails?
- Can the installer explain the financial assumptions?
How to compare solar quotes
Compare the complete system rather than focusing only on the number of panels or the headline price. Equipment, generation estimates, battery capacity, installation scope, warranties and aftercare should all be reviewed.
Solar quotation red flags
- Unusually high savings claims without assumptions
- Missing equipment model numbers
- No clear installation scope
- Unclear warranty arrangements
- No explanation of shading
- No information about electrical work
- Pressure to sign immediately
- Unclear aftercare
A good solar quote should be understandable
You should be able to see what equipment is being installed, how the system was designed and what assumptions support the financial forecast.
The right installer should design around your home
A strong installer should ask about electricity consumption, roof conditions, future EV or heat-pump plans and whether battery storage is required. The objective is to design an energy system rather than simply maximise the number of panels.
Get a professionally designed solar system
Start with a detailed assessment and compare a system designed around your property rather than a generic package.
Explore Solar InstallationFrequently asked questions
How do I choose a solar installer?
Compare system design, equipment, warranties, installation scope, generation estimates, certifications, financial assumptions and aftercare rather than choosing on price alone.
What should a solar quote include?
A good quote should identify the equipment, system size, installation scope, expected generation, warranties and relevant electrical or grid requirements.
Should I get multiple solar quotes?
Comparing multiple detailed proposals can help you understand differences in equipment, design and installation scope.
What are red flags when choosing a solar installer?
Unrealistic savings claims, unclear equipment, missing installation details, pressure to sign and vague warranty arrangements are useful warning signs.
Christopher Vale
Renewable Energy Advisor at BrightGrid Energy
