What to Expect Step by Step
For many UK homeowners, installing solar panels is one of the most impactful ways to reduce energy bills. Increase energy independence and make their home more sustainable. If you are at the early stages of your research into solar panels, you may be looking at a plethora of information and data, wondering what it all means and how solar actually works. How long does it take? What do installers look for? What should you expect at each step?
This guide walks you through the complete journey from initial enquiry to switching on your new solar PV system, providing clarity and helping you make confident, well-informed decisions.
Initial Consultation and Energy Assessment
Your solar journey begins with an initial consultation. At SolarTherm UK, this is a straightforward fact finding conversation, designed to understand:
- Your property type and roof structure
- Your electricity usage and energy lifestyle
- Your goals – bill reduction, battery storage, long term return on investment
During this stage, you will be asked for details such as a recent energy bill and roof orientation. This information helps determine whether solar is a viable and cost effective option for your home.
Site Survey and Roof Inspection
If your home is suitable based on the initial assessment and a remote survey, the next step is a detailed on site survey. A qualified surveyor will measure your roof and assess its structural integrity and review shading factors such as nearby trees, buildings, chimneys and dormers. From this they will confirm the optimal panel layout and evaluate the electrical connection points to ensure your home is ready for your solar installation.
A site survey is essential for guaranteeing both safety and long term performance of your solar PV installation.
System Design and Quotation
Following the survey, you will receive a final system design and quotation, complete with:
- Recommended solar panel specification
- Inverter and optional battery storage configuration
- Predicted annual generation
- Projected savings and return on investment
- Total cost and installation time line
A good quotation should be transparent and itemised so you can clearly understand what is included and what might be extra. SolarTherm UK ensures every design aligns with your energy goals, budget and future expansion potential. All our quotes and estimates are independently verified by EPVS (Energy Performance Verification Scheme) for accuracy.
Securing Permissions and Paperwork
For most UK residential properties, installing solar is straightforward, not requiring planning permission as solar is considered Permitted Development. However there are exceptions, for listed buildings, properties within a conservation area and those with unusual roof structures where solar panels may need to be fitted outside of the permitted framework.
Your installer will also handle your DNO application and approval, ensuring your system complies with any restrictions put in place. Your MCS certificate will be provided after commissioning of your system on receipt of full payment, alongside any warranties and insurance backed guarantees.
This administrative phase runs in the background while your installation date is arranged.
Install Day: What Actually Happens
A standard domestic installation usually takes less than a day, depending on complexity. The process includes:
Roof Work
- Fixing mounting rails securely into the rafters
- Attaching solar panels to the mounting system
- Running DC cabling to the inverter location
Electrical Work
- Installing the inverter and isolators
- Connecting to the consumer unit
- Integrating a battery if selected
- Setting up monitoring software and apps
Professional installers adhere to strict safety and quality standards, ensuring your system performs optimally from day one.
Testing, Commissioning and Handover
Once everything is connected, the system undergoes complete testing, including:
- Electrical compliance tests
- Generation verification
- Inverter configuration
- Safety isolation review
On completion of installation and receipt of your payment, you will receive a full handover pack containing:
- MCS Certificate
- DNO approval letter
- Warranty documentation
- User guides and monitoring instructions
At this point, your system is ready to generate clean, cost saving electricity.
Aftercare and Ongoing Support
A reputable installer will provide ongoing aftercare to help ensure your investment continues performing efficiently. Solar panels typically require minimal maintenance but periodic checks help maximise long term return on investment. Your installer should be available to answer any questions you may have, investigate any issues that arise and organise repair and replacement work quickly and seamlessly to minimise down time of your system.
Thinking About Solar? Start Your Journey with SolarTherm UK
Installing solar panels is a structured, predictable process when you work with experienced professionals. From the first enquiry to long term support, SolarTherm UK ensures every stage is handled with precision, transparency and customer care.
If you’re exploring solar for your home, our solar specialists can provide tailored advice and a free assessment to help you understand your options. Contact SolarTherm UK today for a free, no obligation quote and design, tailored to your property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
