Choose an MCS-certified installer that belongs to a consumer code, get at least three written quotes, and check certification yourself on the official directories rather than relying on a logo in a brochure. Avoid large upfront deposits, high-pressure sales and payback claims that sound too good.
Your protection depends on the contract and on what the installer is registered with, so ask for these in writing before you sign.
What to check first
- MCS certification: needed for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and the Smart Export Guarantee. Check the installer on the MCS directory, not just their website. See the MCS certification guide.
- A consumer code: MCS installers must belong to an approved consumer code. Confirm membership with the code body.
- Competent person registration: shows they can self-certify electrical and other regulated work.
- Insurance: public liability, and ask about workmanship cover.
- A track record: recent local installs you can see, and reviews on independent sites.
Getting quotes
Ask at least three installers for a written quote based on a site visit, not a phone call. A good quote is specific and comparable.
| A good quote includes | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Make and model of main equipment | So you can compare like with like and check warranties |
| System size and expected annual output | Shows whether the design fits your usage |
| For heat pumps, a room-by-room heat loss calculation | The basis of correct sizing |
| What is included: scaffold, electrical work, controls, making good | Avoids extras later |
| Who handles grid notification, MCS and grant paperwork | Unlocks the money |
| Warranties, guarantees and payment terms | Your protection if something fails |
Use the cost ranges in each guide to spot quotes that are far above or below normal, and be as suspicious of a very cheap quote as a very expensive one.
Payment and protection
- Be cautious of large deposits. A modest deposit is common, but paying most of the price before any work starts is a risk.
- Ask whether your deposit and the installation guarantee are protected if the installer stops trading, for example by an insurance-backed guarantee.
- Paying part by credit card may give extra consumer protection on larger purchases. Check the terms with your card provider.
- Get the cancellation terms in writing, including any cooling-off period.
Warning signs
- Pressure to sign on the day, or a "price valid today only" offer.
- Unrealistic claims such as free solar, guaranteed bills of zero, or very short paybacks.
- Cold calls or door knocking, or claims of a government link.
- No site visit, or a quote that ignores your roof, usage or heat loss.
- Reluctance to show certificates, insurance or MCS number.
- Logos with no way to verify them.
Questions to ask
- What is your MCS certificate number, and which consumer code do you belong to?
- Who will do the work: your own staff or subcontractors?
- Who handles grid notification, MCS registration and any grant application?
- What guarantees come with the equipment, the workmanship and the roof penetrations?
- What happens if you stop trading?
- Can I speak to a recent customer or see a similar installation?
After the installation
Ask for the MCS certificate, the electrical certificate, the grid notification confirmation, warranty documents and a handover on how to use the controls. Keep them together, because they matter when you sell the property. If something goes wrong, complain to the installer in writing first, then use the complaint route of their consumer code.
For what each trade does, see our pages for solar PV installers, heat pump installers and renewables professionals.
Sources and further reading
- MCS: find an installer Check an installer is certified
- MCS: the quality mark for small-scale renewables Certification and the installer directory
- Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC) Consumer protection code for installers
External links open in a new tab. Last checked October 2026.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check an installer is MCS certified?
Look them up on the official MCS directory using their company name or certificate number, rather than relying on logos on their website or brochure.
How many quotes should I get?
At least three written quotes based on a site visit, so you can compare equipment, size, what is included and the price.
Should I pay a deposit upfront?
A modest deposit is common, but be cautious of large payments before work starts. Ask whether deposits and guarantees are protected if the installer stops trading.
What are the warning signs of a bad installer?
High-pressure sales, unrealistic savings claims, cold calling, no site visit and reluctance to show certificates or insurance.
What paperwork should I get at the end?
The MCS certificate, electrical certificate, grid notification confirmation, warranties and a handover on the controls. Keep them for when you sell.