Before you dive into filling out an online solar quotes form, it’s worth spending a few minutes gathering the right information. The more accurate your answers, the better the quote will match what your home really needs. A well-prepared form avoids vague ballpark estimates that later explode into surprise costs or delays.
1. Home Address and Postcode
Your postcode helps installers determine your area’s sunlight potential and whether they service your location. Sunlight levels vary across the UK, so your region’s average solar exposure directly affects system design and savings projections.
2. Roof Details
Installers will ask whether your roof is pitched or flat, what material it’s made of (tile, slate, metal, etc.), and how large it is. You don’t need to be exact, but having rough measurements or checking your home’s original documents helps. Also note any unique features like dormers or roof windows.
3. Shading and Obstacles
Are there trees, chimneys, aerials, or nearby buildings casting shade on your roof? Even partial shading can impact performance. Mention anything that might block sunlight, and be honest about it—installers will figure it out anyway when they visit.
4. Electricity Usage
Pull out a recent electricity bill and look for your average usage in kilowatt-hours (kWh), either per month or year. This figure helps the installer calculate the number and size of panels you’ll actually need. Oversizing or undersizing your system leads to unnecessary costs or poor efficiency.
5. Energy Goals
If you’re planning to buy an electric vehicle, switch to electric heating, or grow your household’s energy needs, let the installer know. Future usage impacts system sizing, and it’s better to account for this now than retrofitting later.
6. Roof Age and Condition
An older or fragile roof may need repairs or reinforcements before panels can be safely installed. Be upfront about the age and condition. It’s not about failing the form—it’s about avoiding expensive surprises during installation.
7. Photo Uploads (If Available)
If the quote platform allows, take a few clear photos of your roof from ground level. A couple of loft shots showing the internal structure can also help if you feel safe doing so. Visuals speed up the quoting process and reduce the back-and-forth.
8. Preferred Installation Timeframe
Are you in a rush, or just browsing options for six months down the line? Installers appreciate knowing your timeline early on so they can advise on availability and scheduling.
9. Access Information
If your home is on a narrow street, has tricky parking, or limited room for scaffolding, flag it in the form. These factors impact logistics and can influence the final quote.
Having all this information ready makes completing the online form a smooth, no-fuss experience. Even more importantly, it ensures the quotes you get are tailored to your property—not a one-size-fits-all guess. So before you click submit, run through this checklist and save yourself some time, confusion, and costly revisions later on.