Why quotes are hard to compare

Two solar quotes can look alike and still offer very different things. For example, one may include a battery, while the other may not. A low price can simply mean less is included.

Because of this, the aim is not the cheapest number. The aim is to compare like for like. This guide shows what to line up before you decide.

Get at least three quotes

The Renewable Energy Consumer Code, known as RECC, recommends at least three separate quotations before you sign. This gives you a fair view of the market. It also makes it easier to spot an offer that is far too high or too low.

Ask each firm to quote for the same job. Give them the same facts about your roof and your electricity use. As a result, the quotes will be much easier to compare.

What to compare

Put each quote in a table, with one row per item. A simple list will do, and these are the main points to check.

  • System size, shown in kilowatts, and the number of panels
  • The make and model of the panels and the inverter
  • Whether a battery is included, and its size
  • Scaffolding, wiring and fitting costs
  • Warranties on panels, inverter and workmanship
  • Who handles the paperwork for export payments

Then look at the total. A quote should show what you will pay, including VAT. However, if a figure is missing, ask for it in writing.

Check the installer first

Before you compare prices, check the firm. First, ask for its MCS certificate number and look it up on the MCS site. Our guide on how to check an MCS certified installer shows the steps.

MCS matters for export payments. You need to show that your installation and installer are certified to claim the Smart Export Guarantee. Our post on choosing a Smart Export Guarantee tariff covers what comes next.

Also ask about consumer codes. RECC says you should make sure the firm is a member and certified by MCS. A firm that dodges these questions is a warning sign. You can also ask for references, and you can ask what happens if something goes wrong after the install.

VAT and what it covers

Check the VAT line on every quote. As of October 2026, installing solar panels in a home has a 0% VAT rate until 31 March 2027, then 5%. HMRC says supply-only is standard-rated, so the relief covers the installation.

Read our page on zero VAT on solar panels for more detail. Check GOV.UK for the latest date before you rely on it. If a quote looks wrong on VAT, ask the firm to explain.

Deposits and payment terms

RECC says you should not be asked to pay more than 25% of the final contract price as a deposit. This is the rule for its member firms. However, a big upfront demand from any firm deserves a closer look.

Ask when each payment falls due. Link payments to stages of the work, so that you never pay far ahead of the job. Meanwhile, Citizens Advice says to get a written contract before you give the go-ahead.

Pay by a secure method. Citizens Advice says credit cards give the most protection, followed by PayPal or a debit card. Keep every receipt.

If the quote includes finance

Some quotes come with a loan, so look at the interest rate, the total you will pay back, and the length of the deal. Our guides to solar loans and finance and the solar panel finance checklist list what to ask.

Check that the lender is authorised, since the FCA says almost all firms that provide financial services must be authorised or registered. You can search its Firm Checker to find out.

Funding that may change the picture

A grant can change what you pay, so check this before you buy. Funding differs by nation. Our overviews of solar funding routes in England and in Scotland explain what is on offer.

In Northern Ireland the picture is different, and our post on solar support in Northern Ireland explains it. Never assume a quote includes grant money, and ask the firm to show how any scheme works, and check with the official body.

Spot the warning signs

Walk away from anyone who pressures you to sign on the day, because genuine firms give you time. Our guide to solar doorstep and cold-call scams lists the common tricks.

If you sign at home, you usually have a 14-day cooling-off period, which begins the day after you enter the contract. Keep a copy of the contract and write down the date you signed it, so that you can count the days. When you are ready, you can ask for installer quotes through our quote page, but that step is optional.

FAQ / QUICK ANSWERS

Common questions

How many solar quotes should I get?
The Renewable Energy Consumer Code recommends at least three separate quotations before you sign. That gives you a fair view of price and what is included.
How much deposit is reasonable for solar panels?
The Renewable Energy Consumer Code says you should not be asked to pay more than 25% of the final contract price as a deposit. This is the rule for its member firms.
Should a solar quote include VAT?
Check what rate the quote uses. As of October 2026, installing solar panels at a home has a 0% VAT rate until 31 March 2027, and then 5%. Supply-only is standard-rated.
Can I cancel a solar contract signed at home?
You usually have a 14-day cooling-off period for contracts made at home. It begins the day after you enter the contract. Check the details with Citizens Advice.