Solar Panel Buyer's Guide for Scotland
A step-by-step checklist and comparison table to help you choose the right solar installer and system. No invented statistics — just what to check and what to ask.
Last updated: 28 October 2026
What should be in every solar quote?
A legitimate solar quote should be written, itemised, and include the panel brand and model, inverter type, system size in kWp, estimated annual generation, total installed cost, warranty terms and a proposed installation date. If any of these are missing, ask for them in writing before proceeding.
The 7-step buying process
- Check your roof — South-facing is ideal, but east-west roofs also work. Check for shading from chimneys, trees and neighbouring buildings. Your installer should survey this on site.
- Verify accreditation — Look up the installer on mcscertified.com and trustmark.org.uk. Do not accept a verbal MCS number — verify it yourself.
- Get three written quotes — Compare system size, panel brand, inverter, warranty and total cost. The cheapest is not always the best; the most expensive is not always the highest quality. To compare installers and quotes across Scotland in one place, Compare Renewables Scotland is a useful starting point.
- Ask the 10 key questions — Use our installer vetting guide and compare answers in writing.
- Confirm DNO and SEG — Your installer must handle G98 or G99 DNO notification. They should also explain how to register for Smart Export Guarantee payments.
- Review warranty and finance — Check the panel performance warranty (typically 25 years), inverter warranty (typically 10-12 years) and workmanship guarantee (at least 10 years). Interest-free credit up to £30,000, subject to status.
- Sign and schedule — Only sign when you have a written, itemised quote and confirmed installation date. Pay any deposit by credit card for Section 75 protection.
Installer comparison checklist
Use this table when comparing installers. Print it or copy it for each quote you receive.
| What to check | Required? | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| MCS certification | Required | Mandatory for SEG registration and most finance |
| TrustMark registration | Required | Government-endorsed quality scheme |
| Written itemised quote | Required | Should list panel brand, inverter, system size and total cost |
| Performance warranty (panels) | Required | Typically 25 years at 80%+ output |
| Inverter warranty | Required | Typically 10-12 years; check replacement cost |
| Workmanship guarantee | Required | Should be at least 10 years |
| G98/G99 DNO notification handled | Required | Installer must notify your DNO before connection |
| Insurance-backed guarantee | Optional | Protects you if the installer ceases trading |
| Battery storage option | Optional | Ask about adding battery storage now or later |
| Monitoring app included | Optional | Lets you track generation and consumption |
Red flags: when to walk away
If you see any of these, do not proceed:
- No MCS certification number or refuses to let you verify it
- Pressure to sign on the day or "today only" pricing
- Cash-only payment requests or large upfront deposits
- No written quote or contract before asking for payment
- Vague answers about warranty or who handles defects
- Cold call or doorstep visit without a prior appointment
What about battery storage?
Battery storage lets you use your solar generation in the evening instead of importing from the grid. It is worth considering if you are out during the day or want backup power. Not every property needs one — discuss this with your installer during the site survey. For Glasgow-based readers, Solar Panels Glasgow lists local MCS-certified installers who can advise on battery options. See our battery storage guide for more.
Ready to get quotes?
Call us on 0141 230 0198 or request a quote online. We install through MCS-certified partners. To understand typical solar costs and export payments before you call, Solar Cost Scotland covers pricing and SEG rates for Scottish properties. Part of the Scottish Energy Efficiency network.