What Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Solar Installer in Ireland?

Solar is a long-term investment, so the installer you choose matters as much as the panels themselves. With so many companies offering similar-looking quotes, it helps to know what separates a solid proposal from a risky one. 

Asking the right questions clarifies what is included, how the system is designed, and whether it meets Irish standards. It also helps you spot vague promises and hidden extras before work begins.

A well-planned installation can improve performance and reduce future headaches. In this blog, we’ll outline the key questions every homeowner should ask before committing to solar.

Let’s start!

What Are The 12 Key Things to Confirm Before You Choose a Solar Installer in Ireland?

Choosing a solar installer is not just about who gives the lowest quote. The right questions help you assess competence, compliance, and whether the system is actually designed for your home, not a generic template.

Knowing what questions to ask before choosing a solar installer in Ireland can help you avoid messy paperwork, poor expertise, and performance claims that do not hold up. 

1. Credentials, Compliance and Safety

Start by asking whether the installer is insured and properly certified, and confirm who will sign off on the electrical work once the job is complete.  You should also ask whether the system will follow Irish regulations, planning requirements where relevant, and ESB Networks rules.

It is worth checking if you will receive the correct certification and documentation at handover, rather than chasing it later.

2. System Design and Sizing

Ask why that system size (kWp) and layout has been recommended for your specific roof, rather than a standard package. You should also ask what annual generation (kWh per year) the installer expects and how they calculated it. 

Make sure they have considered orientation, roof pitch, shading, and seasonal differences, and ask how these factors affect your expected output through the year.

3. Solar Panel Model and Selection

Ask which exact panel model will be installed and why that model is being used. You should also ask whether the panels are Tier One and what both the product warranty and performance warranty cover. 

If aesthetics or roof type matter, ask whether different panel formats or designs were considered and whether the chosen option suits your roof layout properly.

4. Inverter Choice

Ask which inverter the installer plans to use and why it is the best match for your system size and use. You should also ask about efficiency, warranty terms, and what support looks like if the inverter develops a fault. 

If you may add batteries, EV charging, or more panels later, ask whether the inverter supports future upgrades without expensive changes.

5. Battery Storage and Backup

If you are considering storage, ask whether a battery is recommended for your home and what battery size makes sense for your use. You should ask how they have matched capacity to evening demand and whether the system supports time-of-use shifting. 

If backup power matters, ask whether you will have power during outages and what parts of the home can realistically be supported.

6. Performance, Savings and Payback

Ask what annual generation, self-consumption, and export figures are being forecast for your home. You should also ask what assumptions are being used, such as electricity rates, standing charges, export payments, and system degradation over time. 

If payback is quoted, ask how it was calculated and what factors could cause it to change, especially if your usage habits shift.

7. Roof Structure and Installation Approach

Ask how the panels will be fixed to your specific roof type and what steps are taken to prevent leaks. You should ask whether flashing kits and approved mounting systems are used and whether fixings are suited to slate, tile, or flat roof structures. 

It is also sensible to ask what happens if tiles or slates are damaged during installation and who covers that cost.

8. Electrical Works and Backup Setup

Ask what changes may be needed to your consumer unit and where the inverter and battery equipment will be located. You should ask how cables will be routed and whether AC and DC isolators are included as standard. 

If you want backup, ask how critical circuits will be separated and what loads can be supported safely, without vague promises.

9. Monitoring, Data and Optimisation

Ask how you will view generation, consumption, battery status, and export, and whether monitoring is provided through an app or portal. You should ask whether you will have per-panel or per-string visibility where relevant, and whether remote diagnostics are included. 

If your Wi-Fi signal is weak, ask what options exist for reliable connectivity and accurate import/export measurement.

10. Warranties, Guarantees and Aftercare

Ask what warranties apply to panels, inverter, battery, mounting system, and work, and get the timeframes clearly stated. You should also ask who handles claims, whether you deal with the installer or the manufacturer directly, and what response times look like for support. 

It is important to ask what aftercare is included and what is considered chargeable after installation.

11. Grants, Export and Paperwork

Ask whether the installer will guide you through the SEAI grant process and what support they provide with documentation. You should ask who completes the paperwork and what is needed to meet grant standards, including any post-install requirements. 

Also ask whether they will handle ESB Networks microgeneration notifications and support export setup with your electricity supplier.

12. Pricing, Scope and Timeline

Ask what is included in the quoted price and what is not, so you are not hit with “extras” later. You should ask for a clear scope covering equipment, scaffolding, cabling, isolators, commissioning, and handover documents. 

Ask about payment milestones and cancellation terms. Then confirm the expected timeline for materials, installation, and final commissioning, including what you need to do to prepare the site.

Conclusion

Choosing the right installer is as important as choosing the right solar system. Learning what questions to ask before choosing a solar installer in Ireland helps you avoid unclear pricing, poor system design, and compliance issues later on. By asking about credentials, system design, performance estimates, warranties, and aftercare, you can make a more informed and confident decision.

Taking the time to clarify these details now can save money and stress in the future. If you are ready to move forward with solar or want expert guidance you can trust, contact Going Solar today to discuss your options and arrange a professional assessment.