BrightGrid EnergyBrightGrid
Solar

Solar Panel Installation Checklist UK: Everything to Check Before and After Installation

Marcus Webb· 1 min read

A solar installation is a long-term investment, so it is worth checking the project at every stage. This checklist covers the key questions to ask before signing, what to verify during installation and what documentation you should receive after commissioning.

Before requesting a quote

  • Collect recent electricity bills.
  • Understand annual electricity consumption.
  • Identify future EV plans.
  • Identify future heat pump plans.
  • Check whether the roof has known issues.
  • Consider whether battery storage is wanted.

Before accepting the quote

  1. Confirm the exact panel model.
  2. Confirm the total kWp capacity.
  3. Confirm the inverter model.
  4. Confirm battery capacity if included.
  5. Review the predicted annual generation.
  6. Check shading assumptions.
  7. Check installation scope.
  8. Check warranties.
  9. Check payment terms.
  10. Confirm what happens if additional work is required.

During installation

The installer should follow the agreed design and use suitable mounting, cabling, electrical protection and safety procedures. Any significant design change should be discussed rather than made without explanation.

After installation

  • Confirm the system is generating.
  • Check the monitoring app.
  • Receive electrical certification.
  • Receive product documentation.
  • Receive warranty information.
  • Confirm relevant grid documentation.
  • Understand emergency shutdown procedures.
  • Know who to contact if the system develops a fault.
StageKey check
SurveyRoof, shading and electrical system assessed
DesignPanel, inverter and battery configuration confirmed
QuoteComplete scope and assumptions documented
InstallationEquipment installed according to design
CommissioningSystem tested and monitoring configured
HandoverDocumentation and warranties received

After the installation

Keep an eye on system generation and monitoring. Comparing performance across similar weather periods can help identify unusual changes.

Keep your solar documents

Store your electrical certificates, warranties, equipment information, commissioning records and monitoring details. These can be valuable for future maintenance, upgrades or property sale.

Ready to plan your solar installation?

Get a complete solar proposal covering design, equipment, installation and long-term energy performance.

Explore Solar

Frequently asked questions

What should I check before installing solar panels?

Check your electricity consumption, roof condition, shading, system design, equipment, warranties, installation scope and financial assumptions.

What documents should I receive after solar installation?

You should receive the relevant electrical and installation documentation, equipment information, warranties and monitoring details.

Should I monitor my solar panels?

Yes. Monitoring can help identify unexpected changes in generation and potential faults.

What should I keep after installation?

Keep certificates, warranties, equipment specifications, commissioning records and monitoring information.

MW

Marcus Webb

Head of Engineering at BrightGrid Energy

Ready when you are

See what this means for your home.

Two minutes of questions, seven system options, modelled against your own numbers.

Check Your Savings