Question 1

Do solar panels work in the UK weather?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Solar panels work from daylight, not heat, so they still generate on cloudy days. Output is highest in spring and summer, but a well-designed system produces useful power all year round.

Question 2

How long do solar panels last?

Accepted Answer

Modern panels typically last 25 years or more, and most come with long manufacturer performance warranties. Inverters usually last 10 to 15 years.

Question 3

Is my roof suitable?

Accepted Answer

Most roofs facing south, east or west work well. We look at the direction, pitch, shading and condition of your roof during your free quote and tell you honestly if solar makes sense.

Question 4

Do I need planning permission?

Accepted Answer

Most home solar installations are classed as permitted development, so planning permission is usually not needed. Listed buildings and conservation areas can be different, and we will check this for you.

Question 5

Is there VAT on solar panels?

Accepted Answer

Home solar panels and battery storage currently have 0% VAT until March 2027.

Question 6

Can I get paid for the electricity I don't use?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Under the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), energy suppliers pay you for the spare electricity you send back to the grid. We can help you get set up.

Question 7

Do solar panels need much maintenance?

Accepted Answer

Very little. Rain keeps them fairly clean, and an occasional check-up keeps everything running at its best. We offer maintenance and monitoring if you want peace of mind.

Question 8

Do I need a battery?

Accepted Answer

Not always, but a battery lets you store daytime solar power for use in the evening. Paired with a battery, solar can cover up to 70% of a typical home's electricity.

Question 9

Can I add a battery later?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can add battery storage to a new or existing solar system at any time.

Question 10

Can my solar panels charge my electric car?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We install EV chargers that can be set to use your own solar power first, cutting the cost of charging.

Question 11

Who are Custom Solar PV Installers UK?

Accepted Answer

We are your local installers, with local teams in Norwich, Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds and Essex. We design, install and look after solar PV, battery storage and EV chargers for homes.

Question 12

Are you accredited?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We are MCS certified, RECC members, TrustMark registered, HIES accredited, EPVS accredited and a Which? Trusted Trader.

Question 13

How does the free quote work?

Accepted Answer

Send us your details on our quote page. We then arrange your free quote over Zoom or with a visit to your home, whichever suits you best. There is no hard sell and no obligation.

Question 14

Why don't you show prices on the website?

Accepted Answer

Every home is different. The right system depends on your roof, your energy use and your goals, so we give you a quote tailored to you rather than a one-size price list.

Question 15

How long does installation take?

Accepted Answer

Most home installations are completed in one to two days once scaffolding is up. We keep the work tidy and explain everything before we leave.

Question 16

What warranty do you give?

Accepted Answer

We give a 10-year workmanship warranty, on top of the manufacturer warranties for your panels, inverter and battery.

Question 17

When can I contact you?

Accepted Answer

We are available Monday to Sunday, 24/7. Call us on 01603 531895 or email info@customsolarpvinstallersuk.com.

Frequently asked questions

About solar

Batteries and EV chargers

About us

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