What Happens After You Accept a Solar Quote?

You have decided you want solar panels and battery storage.

You may have chosen the battery brand, looked at the return on investment and agreed the price.

But what happens after you accept a solar quote?

This is the part many homeowners do not think about until they are already in the process.

A good solar installation is not just about turning up with panels and fitting them on the roof. There should be a proper survey, clear paperwork, deposit protection, grid applications, roof checks, electrical checks, installation planning, handover, MCS paperwork and tariff setup.

In this guide, we explain what should happen before, during and after your solar panel and battery storage installation.

Before you accept a solar quote

Before you sign anything, it is worth doing your research.

You do not need to become a solar expert, but you should have a basic idea of what you are buying.

Think about:

• How much electricity your home uses
• Whether you want solar panels only or solar with battery storage
• Whether you want an on-roof or in-roof system
• Whether the project is a retrofit, renovation, re-roof or new build
• What size battery might suit your usage
• Whether you have an electric vehicle or heat pump
• Whether backup power matters to you

Once you understand the basics, you can ask better questions.

This also helps you compare quotes properly. The cheapest quote is not always the best quote, and the most expensive quote is not automatically the best system.

The aim is to understand what you are buying and why.

Choosing the right solar installer

The right installer matters.

You may have local solar installers near you, national installers and online quote providers all offering different prices and packages.

Local does not always mean better, and national does not always mean worse.

The important thing is whether the installer understands your property, your goals and the system they are recommending.

Before you accept a solar quote, ask yourself:

• Have they explained the system clearly?
• Do they understand the products they are recommending?
• Have they looked properly at your home?
• Have they explained where the inverter and battery will go?
• Have they discussed cable routes?
• Have they explained performance figures?
• Have they given clear payment terms?
• Have they answered your questions properly?

If something feels rushed, vague or overly sales-led, it is worth taking a step back.

Why a proper home survey matters

A proper survey is one of the most important parts of the solar installation process.

Online quotes can be useful as a starting point, but they often rely on mapping software, roof images and assumptions. That can create problems later.

A proper survey helps confirm:

• How many panels can fit on the roof
• The condition of the roof
• The cable route
• The inverter location
• The battery storage location
• The consumer unit position
• Whether any electrical upgrades may be needed
• Whether Wi-Fi or Ethernet is available near the equipment
• Whether scaffolding or access needs special planning

Think of it like buying a kitchen or bathroom.

You would not normally buy the whole thing from an online image without someone checking the measurements, layout and services. Solar and battery storage should be treated in the same way.

A good survey helps avoid surprises on installation day.

Why online solar quotes can be inaccurate

Online solar quotes can give you a rough idea of cost.

But they should not replace a proper site survey.

Mapping tools can miss important details. They may underestimate or overestimate how many panels fit on the roof. They may not show shading, roof condition, access issues or cable route challenges.

For example, an online design may suggest eight panels, when the roof could actually take twelve. Or it may show a layout that does not work properly once the installer gets on site.

That is why the phrase “measure twice, cut once” matters.

Do the work upfront, and the installation is more likely to run smoothly.

Get three quotes and check reviews properly

It is sensible to get more than one quote.

Three quotes can give you a better understanding of pricing, product choice and the different ways installers approach the design.

But do not only compare the final price.

Look at:

• Reviews
• Case studies
• Product recommendations
• Warranty information
• Survey quality
• Payment terms
• How clearly the company communicates
• Whether they explain the trade-offs

It can also help to speak to previous customers.

Do not just ask whether the company was “good”. Ask what happened when there was a problem.

Most installers will run into issues at some point. Products can fail. Technical problems can happen. Weather can cause delays. Grid applications can take longer than expected.

What matters is how the company deals with those issues.

What paperwork should you receive?

After you accept a solar quote, you should receive a set of documents.

Some of these may feel dull, but they matter.

You should take the time to read them properly.

Your documents should include clear information on:

• The system being installed
• The solar panels
• The inverter
• The battery storage
• Estimated annual generation
• Payment terms
• Deposit terms
• Warranties
• Consumer protection
• Installation process
• Cancellation rights where applicable
• Handover requirements

One of the most important things to check is the performance estimate.

You should be able to see how much electricity the solar system is expected to generate over a year.

That figure helps you understand whether the system makes sense for your home.

Deposit protection and payment terms

It is normal for a solar installer to ask for a deposit.

However, you should understand how your money is protected.

If you pay a deposit by bank transfer or debit card, ask whether the installer provides insurance-backed deposit protection.

Some homeowners also choose to pay part of the deposit by credit card, as this may give another layer of protection under Section 75.

The key point is simple.

Do not just check the company and the equipment. Check how your money is protected between accepting the quote and getting the system installed.

Even if you trust the company, unexpected things can happen.

Good paperwork and clear payment terms protect both sides.

How long does solar installation take to book?

Lead times vary by installer, product availability, workload and the complexity of the project.

Some companies may install within a few weeks. Others may have longer lead times.

A very short lead time is not automatically a problem, but it is worth asking questions if someone says they can install almost immediately.

You should ask:

• When will the survey take place?
• When will the scaffolding go up?
• When will the installation happen?
• How long will the install take?
• Who will manage the project?
• What needs to happen before install day?
• Are any grid applications needed before installation?

A good installer should be able to explain the timeline clearly.

Who manages your solar project?

Once you have accepted the quote and paid any deposit, you should know who is managing your project.

You should have a name, contact details and a clear way to ask questions.

This matters because several things may happen before installation, including:

• Grid applications
• Survey follow-ups
• Roof checks
• Electrical checks
• Scaffold planning
• Delivery planning
• Installation scheduling
• Paperwork
• Customer preparation

You should not feel like you are only dealing with a general inbox.

A clear point of contact makes the process much easier.

What is an MPAN number?

Your installer may ask for your MPAN number.

MPAN stands for Meter Point Administration Number. It identifies the electricity supply to your property.

Your installer may need your MPAN for grid applications and paperwork linked to your solar installation.

You can usually find your MPAN on your electricity bill.

It is not the same as your meter serial number.

Providing this early can help your installer keep the process moving.

What is a G99 application?

A G99 application is a grid application that may be needed before certain solar and battery systems can connect to the electricity network.

In simple terms, if the inverter capacity is above certain limits, your installer may need to apply to the Distribution Network Operator, often called the DNO, before the system can be installed or fully commissioned.

For many domestic solar and battery systems, this becomes relevant when the inverter is above 3.68kW.

Your installer should handle the application on your behalf.

As the homeowner, your main job is to provide the information they need, such as your MPAN number.

G99 applications can take time, so it is important that your installer starts the process early.

Wi-Fi and Ethernet requirements

Most modern solar inverters and battery storage systems need an internet connection.

This may be through Wi-Fi or a hard-wired Ethernet connection.

The connection helps the system:

• Monitor performance
• Update software
• Connect to apps
• Support smart tariffs
• Enable remote diagnostics
• Help the installer identify issues

Before installation, check whether you have a good connection where the inverter and battery will be installed.

This is easy to miss.

If the installer turns up on the day and nobody has checked the Wi-Fi, you can end up with an avoidable problem.

A proper survey should pick this up early.

Should you get a smart meter before solar?

A smart meter can help once your solar panels and battery storage are installed.

You may not be able to switch to every solar or battery tariff straight away, especially before export paperwork is complete.

However, having a smart meter ready can make things easier after installation.

Once your system is installed and the paperwork comes through, you may be able to apply for export payments through the Smart Export Guarantee.

A smart meter can also support time-of-use tariffs, EV tariffs and battery storage tariffs.

If you are planning solar, it is worth checking your smart meter status early.

Roof checks before solar installation

Your roof needs to be suitable for solar panels.

A proper survey should look at the roof condition before installation day.

The installer may check:

• Tiles
• Felt
• Ridge tiles
• Lead flashing
• Roof structure
• Signs of leaks
• Attic condition
• Trusses
• Access
• Any previous alterations

This matters because solar panels are designed to stay on the roof for many years.

If the roof needs repair, it is better to find out before scaffolding goes up and the installation team arrives.

In some cases, remedial work may need to happen first.

That is not a bad thing. It is much better to fix the issue properly than install solar on a roof that is not ready.

Electrical checks before solar installation

The electrical installation also needs checking.

You do not normally need to rewire your whole house just because you are getting solar panels and battery storage.

However, the parts of the electrical system linked to the new installation need to meet the right standards.

Your installer may need to check:

• Consumer unit
• Protective devices
• RCDs
• Bonding to gas and water pipes
• Earthing arrangements
• Backup power requirements
• Gateway requirements
• Cable routes
• Space for new equipment

Some upgrades may be needed before or during installation.

A good installer should explain this clearly.

The aim is not to create unnecessary work. It is to make sure the system is installed safely and correctly.

Solar on a building project

If your solar installation is part of a new build, renovation or re-roof, the process changes slightly.

You should involve your installer earlier.

They may need drawings, site meetings and early conversations about:

• Roof layout
• In-roof solar panels
• Cable routes
• Plant room space
• Battery location
• EV charging
• Other trades
• Final finish

In-roof solar can be a strong option during a re-roof or building project because the panels sit more flush with the roof.

It may also reduce the amount of roof covering needed in the panel area.

The main point is timing.

Solar is much easier to plan when the build is still open, rather than after everything is finished.

Booking the installation

Once the survey, checks, paperwork and any remedial works are complete, the next step is booking the installation.

Your installer should confirm the schedule and explain what happens next.

For many solar installations, scaffolding goes up a few days before the team starts work.

That gives the installers safe access to the roof.

The exact timing depends on the project, the roof, the scaffold company and the installation plan.

How solar equipment gets delivered

Different companies handle equipment delivery in different ways.

Some may arrange for a pallet of panels, inverter and battery equipment to be delivered to your home before installation.

Others may bring the equipment with the installation team.

There are pros and cons to each approach.

The important thing is that you know what to expect.

Ask your installer:

• Will equipment be delivered before install day?
• Where will it be stored?
• Who is responsible for it?
• Will anything be left outside?
• When will the installation team arrive?

Clear planning helps avoid confusion.

What happens on install day?

On installation day, the team will usually start by preparing the roof and electrical areas.

The work may include:

• Installing roof hooks and rails for an on-roof system
• Installing trays and flashings for an in-roof system
• Fitting the solar panels
• Installing bird protection or solar skirt where included
• Installing the inverter
• Installing battery storage
• Installing a gateway if the system includes backup power
• Running cables
• Testing the system
• Setting up monitoring
• Completing electrical checks

By the end of the installation, the main kit may be fitted and operational.

However, that does not always mean every part of the process is finished.

There may still be paperwork, grid confirmation, export setup and tariff optimisation to complete.

Think of installation day as the end of the beginning.

What happens after solar installation?

After the physical installation, your installer should complete the required paperwork.

This may include:

• Electrical certification
• MCS certificate
• Product warranty information
• Handover documents
• Photos of the installation
• Test results
• Grid application follow-up
• Export paperwork guidance

If a G99 application applies, there may be a second stage after installation.

Your installer may need to submit final information to the DNO before you receive confirmation.

This can take time, and installers cannot always control how quickly the DNO responds.

Once you have the correct paperwork, you can usually move forward with export payments and suitable tariffs.

MCS certificate and Smart Export Guarantee

Your MCS certificate is an important document.

It confirms that your solar installation has been completed under the MCS scheme.

You may need it when applying for export payments through the Smart Export Guarantee, also known as SEG.

The Smart Export Guarantee allows eligible homeowners to get paid for electricity they export to the grid.

The rate depends on the energy supplier and tariff.

Do not assume your supplier will automatically put you on the best export rate.

Once your paperwork is ready, compare your options and choose a tariff that suits your system and usage.

Solar and battery tariffs

Solar panels and battery storage do more than reduce your daytime grid usage.

With the right tariff, you may be able to charge your battery during cheaper off-peak periods and use that stored energy during more expensive peak periods.

This can be especially useful in winter when solar generation is lower.

Some homeowners also use EV tariffs, heat pump tariffs or specialist battery tariffs depending on their setup.

In summer, your solar panels may generate more energy than your home and battery can use. That is where export tariffs become important.

The right tariff can make a big difference to how much value you get from your system.

Your installer may not manage your tariff for you, so this is something homeowners need to keep an eye on.

Virtual power plants and smarter tariffs

The energy market is changing quickly.

Some tariffs and services can connect to compatible battery systems and manage charging or exporting automatically.

This is sometimes described as a virtual power plant.

In simple terms, your battery may charge during cheaper periods and export energy during peak periods, depending on the tariff or service.

These options are not suitable for every system or every homeowner.

They also change regularly.

That is why it is worth reviewing tariffs over time, especially if you have a smart battery, EV charger or heat pump.

Why a proper handover matters

A good handover is a key part of the solar installation process.

You should not be left with a new inverter, battery and app without knowing what to do.

A proper handover should explain:

• How the system works
• How to use the app
• How to monitor performance
• How to isolate the system if needed
• What the main equipment does
• What paperwork you will receive
• What happens with warranties
• What to expect after installation
• Who to contact if something goes wrong

The installer should also provide photos and test information where appropriate.

This is useful because you may not be able to see everything on the roof once the job is finished.

A good handover gives you confidence that the system has been installed properly.

Battery calibration and learning phase

Many modern battery systems have a calibration or learning phase after installation.

This can happen with systems such as Tesla Powerwall 3 or SigEnergy SigenStor.

During this period, the battery may charge, discharge or behave slightly differently while it learns your home’s usage and calibrates the battery cells.

You may see slightly unusual behaviour during the first few days.

That does not always mean something is wrong.

Some systems also learn how much energy you use, when you use it, what your tariff looks like and how much solar generation to expect.

Give the system time to settle.

If the behaviour still seems unusual after several weeks, contact your installer.

What should you check after installation?

Solar panels and battery storage are often fairly low maintenance, but they should not be ignored completely.

It is worth checking the system now and again.

You should keep an eye on:

• App connection
• Wi-Fi connection
• Battery performance
• Solar generation
• Export payments
• Tariff settings
• Error messages
• Firmware or app updates
• Changes to your household usage

One simple issue can cause problems.

For example, if you change your Wi-Fi password and the inverter does not reconnect, the system may lose monitoring or smart functionality.

A quick monthly check can help you spot issues early.

Fit and forget, or techie fiddler?

Most solar customers fall into two groups.

Some want to fit the system and forget about it. They want a good brand, a clean installation and a setup that quietly does its job.

Others love the data. They want to check the app, play with settings, compare tariffs and squeeze every bit of value from the system.

Both approaches are fine.

However, even if you prefer the fit-and-forget route, you should still check the system occasionally.

Solar and battery storage work best when the system stays connected, the tariff remains suitable and the settings still match how you use energy.

Final thoughts

Accepting a solar quote is not the end of the process.

It is the start of the next stage.

Before installation, you need a proper survey, clear paperwork, roof checks, electrical checks, grid applications, Wi-Fi planning and a realistic installation timeline.

During installation, the team needs to fit the system safely and neatly.

After installation, you need the right paperwork, a proper handover, export setup, tariff choices and time for the battery to settle into how your home uses energy.

A good solar installation should leave you understanding what has been installed, how it works and what to do next.

If you are considering solar panels and battery storage, Apex Doma can help design, install and explain the system properly from start to finish.

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