4-8
weeks total
Quote to power-on
1-2
days installation
Actual on-site work
10
key steps
From start to finish
0%
VAT until 2027
On residential solar
The Installation Journey
Get Quotes & Compare
Research installers, request quotes, and compare options from multiple MCS-certified companies.
What Happens
- Request 3-5 quotes from different installers
- Compare system sizes, panel brands, and prices
- Check installer reviews and credentials
- Ask about warranties and aftercare
Tips
- Don't just go with the cheapest - quality matters
- Check MCS certification is current
- Ask for references from previous customers
Site Survey
A surveyor visits your property to assess your roof, electrical system, and design the optimal system.
What Happens
- Roof inspection (condition, orientation, shading)
- Electrical assessment (consumer unit, meter)
- Measurements and photos for design
- Discussion of panel placement preferences
Tips
- Be home for the survey to ask questions
- Point out any roof issues or access challenges
- Discuss where you'd like the inverter located
Design & Quote Finalisation
Installer creates detailed system design based on survey findings and provides final quote.
What Happens
- System design with panel layout
- Generation estimates for your specific roof
- Final pricing including any required upgrades
- Contract preparation
Tips
- Review the design carefully
- Check estimated generation seems realistic
- Understand what's included in the price
DNO Notification
Your installer notifies the Distribution Network Operator (DNO) of the planned installation.
What Happens
- G98 notification for systems up to 3.68kW (simple)
- G99 application for larger systems (more involved)
- DNO may request additional information
- Approval typically received within 4 weeks
Tips
- Your installer handles this for you
- Larger systems may take longer to approve
- This happens while scheduling installation
Pre-Installation Prep
Prepare your property for the installation day, including clearing access and parking.
What Happens
- Clear the loft/attic if being accessed
- Ensure scaffolding access is clear
- Prepare parking space near property
- Inform neighbours about scaffolding
Tips
- Ask installer exactly what prep is needed
- Confirm timing and what to expect
- Plan for power interruption during commissioning
Scaffolding Erection
Scaffolding is installed to provide safe roof access (may be same day or day before main install).
What Happens
- Scaffolders arrive early morning
- Takes 2-4 hours typically
- May need access through garden/neighbour
- Scaffolding stays up until install complete
Tips
- Secure any valuables in garden sheds
- Move any fragile plants away from scaffold area
- Check scaffolding doesn't block essential access
Installation Day
The main installation happens - mounting system, panels, inverter, and wiring.
What Happens
- Team arrives 8-9am typically
- Roof mounts and rails installed first
- Panels fixed to mounting system
- DC wiring run to inverter location
- Inverter and isolation switches installed
- Connection to consumer unit
Tips
- Someone should be home during installation
- Tea and coffee appreciated by installers!
- Ask questions as work progresses
Electrical Testing & Commissioning
System is tested, connected to the grid, and turned on for the first time.
What Happens
- Electrical safety testing
- System configuration and optimisation
- First power-on and checks
- Brief power interruption required
- Monitoring system setup
Tips
- Ask for a walkthrough of the system
- Get shown how to read the inverter
- Set up monitoring app on your phone
Scaffolding Removal
Scaffolding is dismantled and removed, usually the day after installation or same day.
What Happens
- Takes 2-3 hours typically
- Final roof check before removal
- Any garden reinstatement if needed
Tips
- Check for any minor damage to garden
- Inspect roof visually after scaffolding gone
- Report any issues immediately
Sign-Off & Documentation
Receive all certificates and documentation, and register for SEG payments.
What Happens
- MCS certificate (essential for SEG)
- DNO commissioning confirmation
- Electrical certificates
- Warranty documentation
- User manuals
Tips
- Keep all documents safe
- Apply for SEG payments promptly
- Register your system for monitoring
What Can Affect Timing?
May Take Longer
- Busy season (spring/summer)
- Larger systems (>3.68kW) need G99 approval
- Roof repairs needed first
- Consumer unit upgrade required
- Listed building or conservation area
- Complex roof layout
Can Speed Things Up
- Off-peak season (autumn/winter)
- Standard size system (<3.68kW)
- Modern consumer unit in good condition
- Easy roof access
- Flexible on installation dates
- Quick decision making
What to Expect on Installation Day
Team Arrives
Installers arrive and unload equipment. Brief introduction and walkthrough of the day.
Roof Work Begins
Mounting brackets and rails installed on your roof. Some noise from drilling.
Panels Installed
Solar panels are carried up and fixed to the mounting system.
Lunch Break
Team takes a break. Wiring work begins inside property.
Inverter Installation
Inverter mounted (usually garage, loft, or utility room). Wiring connected.
Grid Connection
System connected to consumer unit. Brief power interruption (30-60 mins).
Testing & Handover
System tested and switched on. Walkthrough of monitoring and controls. Cleanup and departure.