Going solar is one of the best energy decisions a UK homeowner can make in 2026. But getting it right — the right system, the right installer, the right expectations — requires a little preparation. Here is everything worth knowing before a single panel goes on your roof.
1. Check your roof first
Your roof's orientation, condition, and available space determine how well a solar system will perform. South-facing is ideal, but east and west-facing roofs work well too — typically generating around 80–85% of a south-facing equivalent. North-facing is the only orientation we would advise against.
Your roof also needs to be in sound structural condition. If it requires repairs or is nearing the end of its life, address that before installing solar — removing and reinstalling panels later adds unnecessary cost.
Shading from trees, chimneys, or neighbouring buildings can noticeably reduce output. A competent installer will assess this carefully during their survey.
2. Know your energy consumption
The right system size is determined by how much electricity you use — not just how much roof space you have. Before your consultation, check your annual electricity consumption in kWh on your energy bill, and think about your daily patterns. Are you home during the day, or out from morning to evening? This significantly affects whether battery storage is worth adding.
3. Understand the planning rules
In most cases, solar panels fall under Permitted Development rights — no planning permission required. Exceptions include listed buildings, properties in conservation areas, and certain flat roof configurations. A good installer will check this for you and handle any necessary applications on your behalf.
4. Choose your installer carefully
MCS certification is non-negotiable. The Microgeneration Certification Scheme is the UK's quality standard for solar installations — and only MCS-certified systems are eligible for the Smart Export Guarantee. Verify any installer's certification at mcscertified.com before committing.
Beyond certification, look for verifiable reviews on independent platforms, a willingness to conduct a proper on-site survey before quoting, clear itemised quotes, and a genuine aftercare commitment. An installer who pressures you to sign quickly is one to avoid.
5. Understand what warranties you should expect
A complete installation should come with a manufacturer's performance warranty on panels, a workmanship guarantee on the installation — required to be a minimum of 2 years under the RECC consumer code — and equipment warranties on the inverter and battery where included. Always ask your installer for full details of all warranties in writing before signing any contract. At Apollogrid, we provide a 5-year full replacement warranty followed by a 5-year repair warranty on inverters — 10 years of cover in total — and a 10-year warranty on all batteries.
6. Set realistic savings expectations
According to the Energy Saving Trust, savings vary depending on system size, energy usage and roof orientation. A well-sized system could reduce your electricity bills significantly — your installer will provide a site-specific savings estimate based on your actual energy consumption.
7. Register for the Smart Export Guarantee
Once your system is installed, register for the Smart Export Guarantee — the government scheme that pays you for surplus electricity exported to the grid. Your MCS installation certificate, provided by your installer on completion, is required to register. Rates vary between suppliers — check current rates on Ofgem's website or ask your energy supplier directly, as these change regularly.
8. Think long term
Monitor your generation regularly through your inverter app — a sudden drop in output is usually the first sign of a fault. Clean your panels once or twice a year. Keep your installation documentation — MCS certificate, warranties, and commissioning report — in a safe place. You will need these if you sell your property or make an insurance claim.
Ready to take the next step?
Apollogrid offers a completely free, no-obligation survey for homeowners across the UK. Our MCS-certified engineers will assess your roof, review your energy consumption, and give you an honest picture of what solar would deliver for your home — no pressure, no commitment.