July 10, 2025

The solar market is currently flooded with one man bands, recently established companies, and everything in between. It’s our job to help you find one of the few reputable installers in the country. While this offers more choice, it can also make the process more confusing, and in some cases, risky, leaving homeowners scratching their heads wondering “How do I choose a solar installer that I can trust?”

We’ve received messages from people in need of support after having solar installed by companies that have closed, systems that have been installed incorrectly, grant applications not processed as promised or people just being ignored by their installer once their system has been commissioned.

In this article, we will outline what to look for when choosing a solar installer to help ensure your system is safe, effective, and supported for the long-term.

This guide is here to help you avoid these issues. By knowing what to look for, you can make an informed choice, and invest in solar with confidence.

1. Safety First and Foremost, Always

Solar panels are part of your home’s electrical system, and any work involving electricity must meet strict safety standards. Before you consider anything else, make sure the installer is properly accredited.

Safety standards exist not only to protect your home and your investment, but also to guarantee the long-term safety and performance of your system. These regulations and accreditations separate a good service from an illegal one.

Look for:

• SEAI Registration: Only SEAI-registered installers are eligible for the Solar PV grant.

• Safe Electric Registration: This ensures all electrical work is legally compliant in Ireland.

• Insurance and Health & Safety Compliance: Ask for proof of insurance and ensure the installer follows appropriate safety protocols on site.

Without these, you risk not only a faulty system, but serious safety issues in your home.

Additionally, you want to choose a company that protects and values the safety of their team. Installing solar is a dangerous job that requires safety harnesses, appropriate workwear (PPE) and risk assessment. Choosing a company that cares about the safety of their team can help avoid unprecedented accidents at your home.

Proper accreditation and compliance help protect your home, your family, and your investment.

2. Check Their Reputation

A good reputation speaks volumes. An installers reputation is one of the most reliable indicators of quality. We don’t recommend relying solely on the testimonials published on their own website as there is no way to ensure these are verified and accurate.

Instead, check:

• Trustpilot and Google Reviews: These often give a more honest, accurate and balanced picture of their service quality.

• Consistency: Are the reviews recent? Are there patterns in the feedback? Pay attention to detailed reviews.

• Experience: How long has the company been in business? Do they have experience with homes similar to yours? Longevity often reflects reliability and experience.

It’s also reasonable to ask for references or examples of recent work, a reputable installer should be happy to provide past customer contacts or case studies.

3. Aftersales Support Matters

Solar systems are designed to last, and most systems need very little maintenance. Still, if something goes wrong, you’ll want to know there’s someone to call.

Ask the installer:

1. What support is available after installation?

2. Do they have an inhouse aftersales or customer support team?

3. Do they offer remote monitoring or performance checks?

4. What warranties are included, and who provides them? Are these backed by the manufacturer?

Don’t wait until there’s a problem to find out you’re on your own.

4. Ask About Their Installation Team

Some companies use their own in-house installation teams, while others subcontract the work. While there’s nothing distinctly wrong with either, you will want to know who is actually doing the job, and whether they’re qualified and accredited.

Consider asking:

1. Are the installers employed or contracted?

2. Are they Safe Electric registered?

3. Will the same team be available for follow-up support?

An installer that relies on subcontractors may have less control over quality or may be harder to contact if issues arise later. We recommend choosing an installer that employs its own in-house installation team, they will typically have better control, communication and safety procedures in place throughout the project.

5. Get a Clear, Transparent Quote

A detailed, written quote is a sign of a professional installer. A vague or overly simple quote can be a red flag.

A quote should include:

• Specifics about the system (number and brand of panels, inverter type, mounting system)

• Installation costs

• What’s excluded (e.g. fuse board upgrades)

• Payment terms

Be wary of companies that ask for full payment upfront or are unwilling to explain costs clearly.

Every home and every customer is different. A one size-fits-all approach doesn’t work when it comes to solar.

A lot of solar companies require an in-person appointment before providing a quote, this is to ensure that the company fully understands your electricity needs.

Pricing a solar system without understanding the specific needs of a property can be misleading. Giving a general price could give the wrong impression, especially if important elements or features aren’t included. The goal is to find the right solution for each customer’s needs.

Learn more about what goes into a solar quote and the price of solar systems.

6. Understand the System Design

Every home is different. Your roof, your energy needs, and your budget are unique, so your solar system should be designed with you in mind.

A good installer will:

• Carry out a proper assessment of your home (either in person or via a virtual survey)

• Design a system that’s appropriate for your roof and energy needs

• Explain how much electricity you can expect to generate and how much you might save

• Be open to questions about equipment choices and layout

One-size-fits-all packages often lead to underperformance, or overspending.

Ask questions. A quality installer will welcome them.

7. Make Sure They Understand SEAI Grants and Planning Rules

Navigating solar grants and permissions can be tricky, your solar installer should be able to help. Most domestic solar installations in Ireland are exempt from planning permission, but not all. Your solar installer should understand the relevant rules and help guide you through any paperwork.

Make sure they can:

• Assist with the SEAI Solar PV Grant application process

• Provide any necessary Building Energy Rating (BER) documentation

• Advise you on whether your property is exempt from planning, or whether you’ll need to apply (e.g. if your house is a protected structure or you live near a boundary)

An experienced installer should make the grant process easier, not harder, saving you time, stress, and money.

Read this article to learn more about the SEAI Home Solar Grant.

Final Thoughts

Going solar is a long-term investment. With the right system and a reliable installer, you can reduce your energy bills, cut your carbon footprint, and increase your home’s energy independence for decades to come.

But taking shortcuts during the selection process, or choosing an installer based on the price alone can lead to disappointment, frustration, safety risks, and unnecessary cost.

Choosing the right installer is about much more than price. It’s about safety, long-term performance, and peace of mind.

Take your time. By asking the right questions, doing your research, and comparing options carefully, you can avoid common pitfalls and enjoy the full benefits of solar.

The right installer will welcome your questions, and make the process simple, transparent, and stress-free.

If you’re thinking about going solar, we can help make the process seamless. Complete the form below to get a free home solar quote and consultation.