Choosing the right solar installer matters just as much as choosing the right panels or inverter. In 2026, with more installers and products than ever, homeowners need a clear way to separate trusted professionals from risky operators.
Use the checklist below to confidently evaluate any solar installer before signing a contract.
✅ Check 1: Is the Installer Clean Energy Council Accredited?
This is non-negotiable.
A reliable installer must be accredited by Clean Energy Council. Accreditation confirms the installer:
- Meets Australian safety and installation standards
- Can legally install grid-connected solar systems
- Is recognised by retailers and rebate programs
You can verify accreditation directly via the Clean Energy Council website:
👉 https://www.cleanenergycouncil.org.au/
✅ Check 2: Does the Installer Offer a Site-Specific Design?
Every roof is different. Therefore, cookie-cutter solar designs are a red flag.
A quality installer should assess:
- Roof orientation and shading
- Switchboard capacity
- Household energy usage patterns
- Future upgrades like batteries or EVs
If the quote looks identical to others with no explanation, pause and ask questions.
✅ Check 3: Are the Panels and Inverters Clearly Specified?
Vague product descriptions often hide poor-quality components.
Make sure the quote clearly lists:
- Solar panel brand and model
- Inverter brand, model, and capacity
- Warranties for both equipment and performance
To understand how inverter quality affects long-term results, this comparison guide is helpful:
👉 https://quotes.solarproof.com.au/compare-solar-inverter-quotes/
✅ Check 4: Is Pricing Transparent and Fully Explained?
A trustworthy installer explains why the system costs what it does.
Look for:
- Clear system size (kW)
- Itemised inclusions
- No surprise “extra” installation fees
- Honest discussion about rebates and savings
If pricing feels rushed or unclear, that’s often intentional.
✅ Check 5: What Workmanship Warranty Is Offered?
Product warranties are only part of the picture.
Ask specifically:
- How long the workmanship warranty lasts
- What it covers
- Who to contact if issues arise
Installers confident in their work usually back it with strong, written guarantees.
✅ Check 6: Does the Installer Understand Current Grid Rules?
In 2026, grid rules matter more than ever.
A competent installer understands:
- Export limits
- Smart inverter requirements
- Local network rules
- Battery-ready system design
Without this knowledge, systems may underperform — even with good hardware.
✅ Check 7: Are Reviews Recent and Consistent?
Online reviews still matter, but only when read carefully.
Focus on:
- Reviews from the last 12–18 months
- Mentions of communication and after-sales support
- How the installer handles problems
A few negative reviews are normal. Poor responses are not.
✅ Check 8: Do They Offer Ongoing Support After Installation?
Solar is a long-term investment.
Good installers:
- Help with monitoring setup
- Provide clear handover documentation
- Support warranty claims if needed
- Stay contactable years later
If support ends the moment payment clears, keep looking.
✅ Check 9: Are You Comparing More Than One Quote?
Comparing multiple quotes protects you from:
- Overpaying
- Undersized systems
- Poor component choices
The safest way to do this is through vetted installer comparisons rather than random cold calls.
You can request no-pressure solar quotes from trusted installers here:
👉 https://quotes.solarproof.com.au/request-solar-quotes/
This allows you to compare quality, not just price.