What should I ask a solar roof tile installer before hiring them?

When considering solar roof tiles for your UK home or small business, it’s crucial to ask the right questions before hiring an installer. This ensures you get a professional, compliant, and efficient installation that maximizes your solar investment.

Essential questions to ask

1. Are you certified and experienced with solar roof tile installations?

• Confirm the installer holds relevant certifications, such as Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) approval, which is essential for eligibility for UK government incentives and grants.
• Ask about their experience specifically with solar roof tiles (not just regular solar panels), as installation techniques differ and require specialized knowledge.

2. How do you assess my roof’s suitability for solar tiles?

• UK roofs must have the right pitch, angle, and structural condition for solar tiles to work effectively.
• Solar roof tiles often require a ‘perfect’ roof slope and orientation for optimal performance; ask if they will conduct a detailed survey.
• Find out if they will check for shading issues and roof integrity.

3. What solar tile products do you use and why?

• Inquire about the specific brands and models they install. For example, Marley SolarTile® and Wienerberger are known UK manufacturers offering integrated solar tiles.
• Ask about the efficiency, warranties, and expected lifespan of the tiles.
• Request details on aesthetics, such as colour options and how well the tiles blend with existing roofing materials.

4. Can you explain the full installation process?

• Learn how they integrate the solar tiles with your existing roof covering.
• Ask about the installation steps, including whether they will need to adjust the batten spacing or install additional battens to support the tiles.
• Confirm that they will secure the tiles to maintain waterproofing and weatherproofing standards.
• Check if they handle electrical connections, inverter installation, and system testing.

5. What are the total costs and financing options?

• Clarify the full price, including materials, labour, wiring, and any extra roof work.
• Ask about eligibility and assistance with UK government schemes like the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), which pays for surplus electricity you export to the grid.
• Check if they offer financing plans or support applications for green energy grants.

6. How long will installation take and what disruptions should I expect?

• Get an estimated timeline from start to finish.
• Ask about potential disruptions to your home or business during installation.
• Find out if special permissions or building regulations approvals (e.g., from local councils) are necessary and if the installer manages these.

7. What maintenance and aftercare services do you provide?

• Find out about maintenance requirements and whether they offer inspections or cleaning.
• Ask about who to contact if tiles or the system develop faults.
• Check warranty coverage and terms for both parts and workmanship.

Practical advice specific to UK homeowners and small businesses

• Solar roof tiles often cost more upfront compared to traditional solar panels but offer a sleek, integrated look that can increase property value.
• Roof pitch and orientation in the UK are critical; south-facing roofs at 30-40 degrees pitch deliver best results.
• UK policies, such as the Smart Export Guarantee, encourage small producers to sell excess electricity to the grid, making solar roof tiles financially appealing.
• Planning permission is usually not required for solar tiles in most parts of the UK, but it’s wise to confirm this for listed buildings or conservation areas.

Key pros and cons of solar roof tiles

Pros	Cons
Aesthetic: blends seamlessly with roofing	Higher initial cost than traditional solar panels
Saves space, replaces regular roof tiles	Installation is more complex and time-consuming
Can increase property value	Roof must be in good condition and suitable pitch
Eligible for UK government incentives	Limited installer availability with expertise

Common mistakes to avoid when hiring an installer

• Choosing based on price alone can lead to poor installation quality or lack of compliance.
• Not verifying installer certification and experience with solar roof tiles specifically.
• Overlooking roof condition assessments that can affect long-term performance.
• Failing to understand warranty details and aftercare responsibilities.
• Neglecting to confirm entitlement to government schemes and financial benefits.

Asking these questions will help UK homeowners and small business owners make an informed decision about solar roof tile installation, ensuring a safe, efficient, and financially beneficial renewable energy solution.