How to Get the Best Solar Panel Quote: Comparing Like for Like

How Many Quotes You Need

Three quotes from MCS-certified installers with strong local reputations give you genuine comparison points. Quality matters more than quantity — five quotes including non-MCS providers or companies with patchy reviews just creates noise and confusion. Focus on verified, accredited installers.

What a Proper Quote Should Include

Every quote should clearly break down:

• Panel model and quantity
• Inverter specification
• Mounting system
• Labour costs
• Scaffolding
• Grid connection
• Any optional extras (battery, EV charger, monitoring)
• Estimated annual generation (kWh)
• Payback period estimate
• Warranty terms — panels, inverter, and workmanship listed separately

Vague “turnkey system” quotes that do not break down where costs accumulate are a red flag. They make genuine comparison impossible and often hide unfavourable terms.

Comparing on Equivalent Terms

Match system size. Comparing a 3.5 kW quote against a 5 kW quote is meaningless.

Match panel quality. Budget polycrystalline panels cost less but generate 10–15% less electricity per square metre than premium monocrystalline panels. Most North East installers recommend monocrystalline for the region’s lower light conditions — the efficiency gain justifies the £300–£600 premium.

Match warranty lengths. A £5,000 quote with a 10-year workmanship warranty is not comparable to a £5,500 quote with a 25-year workmanship warranty. Adjust for these differences before deciding on price alone.

Check what is included. Does the quote cover scaffolding? DNO notification? Monitoring setup? These can add hundreds to the final bill if they are excluded.

The Hidden Cost of the Cheapest Quote

A non-MCS installer quoting £4,500 compared to an MCS installer at £5,500 seems like a £1,000 saving. But you lose £600 in VAT savings immediately, plus Smart Export Guarantee payments worth £100–£200 per year for 20+ years — that is £2,000–£4,000 over the system’s lifetime.

Equipment manufacturers also void warranties if panels or inverters are installed by non-certified technicians, leaving you personally liable for replacement costs that can exceed £1,500. Insurance companies may refuse claims for roof damage or electrical faults caused by uncertified installations. In some cases, mortgage lenders have required homeowners to remove non-compliant systems before approving remortgages.

Compare quotes from MCS-certified installers in your area to make sure you are comparing like for like.