Solar Surveys
Independent technical surveys and second opinions.
Free quote surveys
Whether you're getting a free quote from us or want an independent technical opinion on a quote you've received elsewhere, a proper survey is the foundation of any successful solar install.
What a survey covers
Roof structural assessment, orientation and pitch measurement, shading analysis (using fish-eye photo modelling), consumer-unit and meter check, cable routing, scaffolding access and DNO requirements.
Quote audits
If you've received a quote elsewhere and want a second pair of eyes, our independent survey service is £199 (refunded against your install if you proceed with us). We'll tell you straight if the proposal is reasonable or not.
What we look for on the roof
Tile or slate condition, age and any prior repairs; rafter sizing and centres versus the proposed array weight; ridge, valley and verge details; chimney and dormer shadow paths through the day; tree growth trajectory (5- and 10-year shading models); and existing penetrations like vent stacks that affect rail routing. Photos and measurements go into a written report you keep regardless of whether you install with us.
Inside the property
We measure the proposed inverter and battery location for ventilation, ambient temperature and fire-separation distances; check the consumer unit for spare ways and an RCD/RCBO arrangement compatible with PV; inspect the meter type (smart, dual-rate, single-rate) and main fuse rating; and trace likely cable routes through lofts, voids and risers — flagging any plasterwork that may need making good.
Shading and yield modelling
We use a fish-eye camera and Solar Pathfinder (or app-based equivalent) at each proposed array corner to capture the actual sky-dome and obstructions. Those readings feed a PVGIS / PVsyst yield model for your exact postcode — giving an annual generation estimate accurate to within ±5% under typical years. Cheap quotes that skip this step are often 10-20% too optimistic.
Second-opinion red flags
On quote audits we flag the usual suspects: panel models with no listed MCS reference, missing inverter manufacturer, no scaffolding line, '25 year warranty' that turns out to be performance-only with no product or workmanship cover, and inflated battery capacities that won't fit the named cabinet. Around a third of audits we run find at least one material misrepresentation in the original quote.
Related reading
Helpful guides before you buy
FAQs
What people ask
How long does a survey take?
Most surveys take 60-90 minutes including the roof inspection.
Do I need to be home for the survey?
Yes — we need internal access for the consumer unit, loft and proposed inverter location. Allow 90 minutes and have your last 12 months of electricity bills handy.
Is the report mine to keep?
Yes. The written report, photos, shading analysis and yield model are yours regardless of who you ultimately install with. Many customers use it to negotiate better terms with their preferred installer.
Can you survey if I already have solar?
Yes — we offer expansion surveys (adding panels or a battery to an existing system) and condition surveys for homes you're buying or selling. Pricing is the same £199 fixed fee.
Get your free quote
Vetted local installer · MCS certified · No obligation