How to Find a Trustworthy Heat Pump or Solar Panel Installer in the UK

Published 18 September 2026 · Updated 7 October 2026 · Propvio Guides

Heat pumps and solar panels are becoming more common in UK homes. Grants, VAT and future buyers all depend on one certification. This guide explains that certification and what else to check.

Check for MCS Certification

Look for an installer certified under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). This is the main UK standard for heat pump, solar panel and battery installers. You can check a certificate number on the MCS website.

MCS certification affects your finances. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme only pays towards heat pumps fitted by MCS-certified installers. Solar panels need an MCS certificate for export payments under the Smart Export Guarantee.

Grants and VAT, at the Time of Writing

In England and Wales, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme currently gives £7,500 towards an air source or ground source heat pump. The installer applies for it and takes it off your bill.

Installing solar panels, batteries or a heat pump in a home is currently zero-rated for VAT. This relief is due to run until March 2027.

Grant amounts and VAT rules change. Check GOV.UK before relying on a specific figure.

Get the Right Size System for Your Home

A heat pump should be sized from a room-by-room heat loss calculation, not just floor area. The wrong size can mean high running costs or a cold house.

For solar, ask how the expected yearly generation was worked out. Ask to see the reasoning behind the quote, not only the price.

Paperwork to Keep

The MCS certificate for the installation.
Confirmation that the electricity network operator was notified about solar panels or a battery.
The heat loss calculation and design for a heat pump.
Warranties for the panels, inverter, battery or heat pump.

A future buyer will want to see these, and the MCS certificate is needed to transfer export payments.

Confirmed Installations on Propvio

On Propvio, a review only appears once a homeowner has logged the job and the installer has confirmed it. It reflects a real, completed installation rather than a rating you cannot check.

Look for confirmed installs of the same technology you want, since heat pump and solar work need different skills.

What a Heat Pump or Solar Quote Should Include

Ask for a written quote with the system size, expected performance, warranties and the installer's MCS certificate number.

See What to Ask a Tradesperson Before Work Starts for questions that apply to any trade.

This guide is for general information only and does not constitute professional advice.

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