Installer guide
How do I choose a solar installer in Scotland?
Choose an MCS-certified installer with a local office, transparent pricing, Tier-1 panel brands, and a written no-obligation quote after a survey. Avoid phone-only estimates, high-pressure sales, and any installer unwilling to put warranty terms in writing.
What to look for
The solar installer checklist
Six essential things to verify before signing any contract. If an installer can't confirm all of these, look elsewhere.
MCS certification
The Microgeneration Certification Scheme is the UK standard for renewable installations. Without it, you can't register for SEG export payments and some panel warranties may be void. Check mcscertified.com.
Local office and team
A physical office you can visit means accountability. Remote call centres may offer cheaper prices but can be hard to reach for aftercare or warranty claims.
Written no-obligation quote
A proper quote follows a survey of your property — not a phone call. It should specify system size, panel and inverter brands, total price including VAT, and finance options.
Tier-1 panel brands
Tier-1 manufacturers (Longi, JA Solar, Trina, REC, etc.) have proven UK warranty support and 25-year performance guarantees. Ask which brands the installer uses and why.
TrustMark registration
TrustMark is a government-endorsed quality scheme. Registered businesses must meet minimum standards and offer access to dispute resolution.
Transparent finance terms
If finance is offered, terms should be clearly stated — interest rate, repayment period, total repayable, and any early settlement conditions. Interest-free credit up to £30,000 is available, subject to status.
What to avoid
Red flags when choosing a solar installer
Avoid installers who use high-pressure tactics, refuse to put things in writing, or can't explain their panel choices. Here's what to watch for.
- Phone-only estimates without a proper survey
- High-pressure sales — "sign today or the price goes up"
- Unwillingness to provide warranty terms in writing
- Vague answers about panel brands or inverter specifications
- No MCS certification or refusal to provide their MCS number
- Quotes that don't include VAT or don't itemise costs
- No local office or physical address you can verify
How we work
How our solar installation process works
We follow an 8-step process from first quote to MCS handover. No pressure, no phone-only estimates — every quote follows a proper survey.
Free quote request
You request a quote online or by phone. We gather basic details about your property.
No-obligation survey
An installer visits your property to assess roof, orientation, shading and usage.
Written quote
You receive a written, itemised quote with system size, brands, price and finance options.
Installation
MCS-certified partners install your system in 1-2 days with minimal disruption.
See the full 8-step process and our guarantees and aftercare for more detail.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions about choosing an installer
How do I know if a solar installer is MCS-certified?
Check the MCS register at mcscertified.com. All installations should be carried out by MCS-certified installers to ensure warranty validity and SEG eligibility.
Should I get multiple solar quotes?
Yes. Get at least two or three quotes. Compare the system size, panel and inverter brands, warranty terms, total price, and finance options — not just the headline price.
What questions should I ask a solar installer?
Ask about MCS certification, panel brand and warranty, inverter type, expected annual generation, total cost including VAT, finance options, and what happens after installation.
How long does solar installation take?
A typical residential installation takes 1-2 days. Scaffolding goes up first, then panels, inverter and wiring. MCS registration and handover usually follow within two weeks.
What warranty should I expect on solar panels?
Tier-1 panels typically carry a 25-year performance warranty. Inverters usually have 10-12 year warranties. Ask about workmanship guarantees too — ideally 10+ years.
Should I choose a local or national solar installer?
A local installer with a physical office you can visit offers better aftercare and accountability. National companies may be cheaper but can be harder to reach if something goes wrong.
What is TrustMark and why does it matter?
TrustMark is a government-endorsed quality scheme for tradespeople. Installers registered with TrustMark must meet minimum standards and offer dispute resolution.
More answers at Scottish Energy Efficiency questions.
Last updated: 1 November 2026
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