Solar

What Should I Consider Before Installing Solar Panels?

06 October 2026 | Energy prices, tariffs and regulations change, so figures here are a guide and not a quote.

A good installation starts with the right questions. Here are the ten main ones.

1. Your roof

Direction, angle, shading and condition all matter. South is best, but east-west roofs work well too. If your roof needs repairs soon, do them first.

2. How you use electricity

If you are home during the day, you will use more solar directly. If you are out, consider a battery to capture the surplus.

3. System size

Bigger is not always better. The right size balances your roof space, your budget and your actual demand.

4. Battery or no battery

A battery raises your self-use and gives evening power, but adds cost and lengthens payback. Some households add one now, others later. Ask for a design that is battery-ready if you are unsure.

5. Future plans

An electric car, heat pump or extended family living at home all change your needs. Design the system for where your energy use is heading.

6. Budget and financing

Compare total installed cost, warranties and payment options, not only the headline price.

7. Installer quality

Look for accredited installers, clear written quotes, sensible product warranties and real aftercare. Ask who handles grid connection paperwork and how faults are dealt with.

Alta Vision Solar is MCS certified, a RECC member and registered with TrustMark and NAPIT. Our in-house team looks after everything from installation to aftercare.

8. Permissions and practicalities

Most domestic installs do not need planning permission, but listed buildings, conservation areas and leasehold properties may have restrictions. Scaffolding, inverter location and cable routes should be agreed up front.

9. Export and tariffs

Understand how you will be paid for surplus power through the Smart Export Guarantee, and whether a smart export tariff suits you.

10. Ongoing care

Panels need little maintenance, but monitoring and an occasional check keep performance high. Remote monitoring that flags faults and performance shortfalls saves you having to watch the system yourself.

Questions to ask any installer

• Can I see a written design based on my roof and my usage, not a standard package?
• What are the panel, inverter and battery warranties, and who handles claims?
• Who arranges grid connection and export registration?
• What happens if the system underperforms or develops a fault?
• Can you show me recent local installations or references?

Bottom line: take your time comparing options, and ask for a design tailored to your property rather than a one-size-fits-all package.

Last reviewed: 06 October 2026 | Energy prices, tariffs and regulations change, so figures here are a guide and not a quote.