From long-term savings to reduced environmental impact, there are multiple reasons why you would want to install solar panels on your home. Once that decision is made, most homeowners’ next question is – ‘how do I find the best solar panel installers near me?’.

With various companies offering to install solar panels near you, it can seem overwhelming deciding which is the best fit. Thankfully, we’re here to help. Read on for five factors which can help you choose between local solar panel installers.

1. Check the location

The first step to finding a local solar panel company is checking whether they’re actually near you. Solar panel installers may offer their services in your area, but this doesn’t necessarily mean they’re local.

If they’re based further afield and simply willing to travel up, this could add to the cost of the job overall. It also means they’re well out of the way should anything go wrong. Based in Rotherham, NBEC provides solar panel installation throughout South Yorkshire, so we’re only ever a short drive away from our customers.

2. Look for accreditations

Accreditations are an easy way to see how reliable and trustworthy a local solar panel installer really is. Some good accreditations to look out for include:

• NICEIC – Covering electricians, renewable energy installers, plumbers and heating engineers, NICEIC accreditation shows that an installer has been impartially assessed to make sure their work is safe and meets the highest standards.
• HIES – HIES is an approved consumer code dedicated to protecting homeowners when buying and installing home energy products. HIES registered installers are fully vetted for your peace of mind, with all installations insured for 25% of the contract value.
• MCS – Essentially the gold standard for renewable technology. MCS certified installers have demonstrated a commitment to quality, customer care and continual improvement alongside proven competency in their field.

3. What about experience?

With solar technology relatively new on the scene, it’s unrealistic to expect a company with several decades of experience. That said, you should still look for 5+ years to demonstrate an installer’s commitment to the industry.

Look for a solar installer’s reviews to back up this experience. It’s all well and good saying they’ve been there and done that, but what do their customers have to say about their work?

4. Is there a guarantee?

All work on your property is safer with a guarantee. Solar panels are no different. Make sure solar panel installers near you offer a guarantee with their products. This protects you against any faults with the installation or the system itself.

At NBEC, for example, all our solar panels come with a 20-year guarantee. We’re also fully insured, so all work and warranties are fully backed for customers’ peace of mind.

5. Ask for advice and assistance

A good way to get a feel for any solar panel installers near you is to check what advice and assistance they offer. This will give you a taste of their customer service as well as making sure they know their stuff about their products and their industry.

At NBEC, we offer a free buyers guide containing everything you need to know about solar panels and the installation process. However, you can also contact our team with any questions you may have on 0800 292 2343 or by emailing [email protected].