Solar Installers Near Me: Find MCS-Certified Installers

The quality of your solar installation depends as much on the installer as on the panels themselves. A poorly installed system will underperform, develop faults sooner, and could even damage your roof. Here is what to look for and what to avoid.

Must-haves

• MCS certification: The Microgeneration Certification Scheme is the UK's quality standard for renewable energy installations. MCS-certified installers are independently audited and must meet strict standards. Without MCS certification, you cannot register for the Smart Export Guarantee.
• Consumer code membership (RECC or HIES): These schemes offer additional consumer protection, including insurance-backed warranties and a formal complaints process. RECC (Renewable Energy Consumer Code) and HIES (Home Insulation and Energy Systems) are the two main schemes.
• Public liability insurance: Any installer working on your roof must carry adequate public liability insurance. Ask to see the certificate if in doubt.
• A clear, detailed written quote: The quote should specify the exact panel model, inverter type, mounting system, all costs (including scaffolding), warranty terms, and estimated generation. Vague quotes are a red flag.

Good signs

• Positive reviews on Trustpilot, Google, and local review sites
• Willingness to provide references from recent installations in your area
• A thorough site survey before providing a final quote
• Clear explanation of panel and inverter choices and why they suit your roof
• A workmanship warranty of 5–10 years in addition to manufacturer warranties
• Transparent about what is and is not included in the price

Warning signs

• Pressure to sign immediately or "today-only" discounts
• Quotes over the phone without a site visit
• Unwillingness to name the specific panel and inverter brands
• No MCS certification or reluctance to share their MCS number
• Unusually cheap quotes — if it seems too good to be true, it probably is
• Door-to-door sales approaches (reputable installers rarely cold-call)

When you receive multiple quotes, compare them on these key factors:

• Total cost per kW: Divide the total price by the system size in kW. A 4kW system at £6,800 is £1,700 per kW. This metric lets you compare quotes of different sizes fairly. Typical UK range: £1,250–£2,000 per kW.
• Panel efficiency and warranty: Higher efficiency panels generate more per square metre. A 25-year performance warranty is standard. Check the product warranty too (12–25 years).
• Inverter type and warranty: String inverters typically carry a 5–12 year warranty; micro-inverters often come with 20–25 years. Factor in replacement cost if the warranty is short.
• What is included: Ensure scaffolding, DNO notification, MCS registration, and all labour are included. Some quotes exclude scaffolding as a separate cost.
• Estimated annual generation: Reputable installers provide a generation estimate based on your specific roof orientation, pitch, and shading. Compare these figures across quotes — wildly different estimates suggest one installer has not assessed your roof properly.