Preparing Your Home for Solar Installation – A Practical Checklist

1. Evaluate Your Roof

The first step to going solar is ensuring your roof can support the system. Check:

Orientation: South-facing roofs capture the most sunlight in the UK.

Angle: Ideally between 30–40 degrees for optimal solar yield.

Condition: Tiles should be stable, and the roof structure strong enough to support the mounting system.
If your roof is older than 15 years, consider an inspection or minor renovation before installation.

2. Understand Your Energy Needs

Review your electricity bills for the past 12 months to determine your average daily usage. This will help your installer size the system accurately and decide whether battery storage is beneficial.

3. Check for Shading

Nearby trees, chimneys, or other buildings can reduce efficiency by casting shadows on panels. Installers often use solar mapping tools to assess shading and suggest optimal panel placement.

4. Review Electrical Compatibility

Ensure your existing electrical system meets the safety requirements for connecting solar components. A certified installer will inspect your main fuse box, earthing, and wiring condition before installation.

5. Consider Future Expansion

If you plan to buy an electric vehicle or add new appliances, design your system with scalability in mind. Hybrid inverters and modular battery systems make it easy to expand in the future.

6. Obtain Necessary Permissions

Most residential installations fall under Permitted Development in the UK. However, listed buildings or properties in conservation areas may require planning permission. Always confirm with your local authority.

7. Choose a Reputable Installer

Work only with certified installers (e.g. MCS-accredited) who can provide product warranties, system documentation, and after-sales support. Partnering with authorised retailers such as SolarVoxGreen ensures full compliance and access to genuine products.