Solar Panel Installation Timeline (UK): Survey → Install Day → Commissioning

From first enquiry to generating your own electricity — here's exactly what happens and how long each stage takes.

The 6-Step Process

Initial Enquiry & Remote Assessment

Day 1

You request quotes and provide basic details — address, electricity usage, and roof photos. Good installers give a preliminary system size and cost estimate remotely.

Site Survey

Week 1–2

A surveyor visits your home to assess roof condition, orientation, shading, electrical setup, and structural suitability. This determines the final system design and specification.

Design & Quote

Week 2–3

You receive a detailed quote with panel layout, inverter choice, expected generation, and full costs. Compare at least 3 quotes. Check MCS certification, warranty terms, and what's included.

DNO Notification / Application

Week 3–4

Your installer handles G98 notification (systems ≤3.68 kW) or G99 application (larger systems). G98 has no waiting period; G99 fast-track takes up to 10 working days.

Installation Day

Week 4–6 (typically 1–2 days)

Scaffolding goes up (usually the day before). Panels, mounting rails, inverter, and wiring are installed. Most domestic systems take 1 day for panels + half day for electrical work.

Commissioning & Handover

Same day or day after install

System is tested, commissioned, and connected to the grid. You receive MCS certificate, electrical certification (BS 7671), monitoring setup, and warranty documentation.

Total typical timeline: 4–6 weeks from enquiry to generating electricity. Busier periods (spring/summer) may extend lead times to 8–12 weeks.

What Happens on Installation Day

Morning: Roof Work

• Scaffolding erected (often day before)
• Mounting rails fixed to roof rafters
• Solar panels clipped onto rail system
• DC cabling run from panels to inverter location

Afternoon: Electrical

• Inverter mounted (usually in loft, garage, or utility room)
• AC connection to consumer unit
• Generation meter installed (if required)
• System tested and commissioned

Do I need to be home? Yes — someone needs to be present for the electrical work and to receive the handover documentation.

After Installation: Next Steps

Apply for SEG

Register with an energy supplier for Smart Export Guarantee payments. You'll need your MCS certificate and smart meter export data.

Set Up Monitoring

Connect your inverter to Wi-Fi and set up the monitoring app. This lets you track generation, consumption, and export in real time.

Notify Your Insurer

Inform your home insurance provider about the installation. Most insurers add panels at no extra cost, but notification is typically required.

EPC Update (Optional)

Consider updating your EPC to reflect the solar installation. This improves your energy rating, which benefits future sale or rental.

Ready to Start Your Solar Journey?

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