How Long Does Solar Installation Take? Our 4-Stage Process Explained

At Fit Solar, we believe moving to a lower-cost world should be simple. We don’t do jargon, and we definitely don’t do “hidden surprises.” To help you prepare, here is our transparent, step-by-step roadmap of what happens from the moment you say “go” to the moment you start saving.

Quick Summary: The Solar Installation Timeline

If you’re looking for the short version, here is what to expect when Fit Solar handles your installation:

• Preparation: Scaffolding is usually erected 1–2 days before the main work begins.
• Installation Time: The physical install of panels, inverter, and battery typically takes 1–3 days.
• Power Interruption: Your electricity will only be off for a few hours during the final connection.
• Commissioning: We test and set up your monitoring app so you can see your savings in real-time.
• Certification: You will receive your MCS certificate and DNO notification shortly after completion—essential for earning money back from the grid.

Stage 1 | Preparation & Scaffolding: Getting Ready for Installation

Once your order is confirmed, our team will get to work behind the scenes, ordering your chosen solar panels, inverter, battery (if applicable), and all necessary mounting equipment and cabling.
What to expect:

• Scaffolding Installation: This is often the first visible sign of activity. For safety and compliance with UK regulations, scaffolding will be erected around your property to provide safe access to your roof. This usually happens a few days before the main installation date. Our team will aim to be as non-intrusive as possible.
• Approximate Time: Scaffolding erection typically takes half a day to a full day, depending on the size and complexity of your roof.
• Disruption: Minimal disruption to your daily routine, mainly noise from the scaffolding poles. Access to certain areas around your property might be temporarily restricted.

Stage 2 | Installation Day: Mounting Solar Panels & Electrical Wiring

This is where your solar system really starts to take shape! Our certified installers will arrive to begin the physical installation of your panels and the associated electrical components.
What to expect:

• Roof Mounting System: Our team will first install the mounting system onto your roof. This involves attaching rails to your roof rafters, where the solar panels will sit. This is done carefully to ensure your roof’s integrity is maintained.
• Solar Panel Installation: The solar panels will then be lifted onto the roof and securely fixed to the mounting rails. They are connected in series or parallel, depending on your system design, and cabling is run discreetly down into your property.
• Inverter Installation: The inverter is the brain of your solar system, converting DC electricity from your panels into AC electricity for your home. This is typically located in a garage, utility room, or sometimes an external wall, in a cool, dry, and easily accessible spot.
• Battery Storage (if applicable): If you’ve opted for battery storage, this will also be installed, usually alongside your inverter or in a similar location. Batteries are robust but require careful handling and secure mounting.
• Wiring and Connections: Our electricians will meticulously wire the system, connecting the panels to the inverter, the inverter to your battery (if applicable), and the inverter to your consumer unit (fuse box). This ensures the solar-generated electricity can power your home and feed into the grid. All wiring will be tidily run and concealed where possible.
• Approximate Time: This stage can take 1-3 days, depending on the size and complexity of your system, and whether battery storage is included.
• Disruption: There will be a period when your electricity will need to be turned off for safety while the system is connected to your consumer unit. This is usually for a few hours. There will also be some noise from drilling and general activity. Our team will keep you informed throughout.

Stage 3 | Commissioning & Testing: Switching Your Solar System On

Once everything is physically installed and wired, the rigorous testing phase begins.
What to expect:

• System Testing: Our engineers will perform comprehensive testing to ensure that every component of your solar PV system is functioning correctly and safely. This includes checking voltage, current, insulation resistance, and verifying all connections.
• Commissioning: The system will be switched on and configured. We’ll ensure your inverter is communicating correctly, and if you have a battery, that it’s charging and discharging as expected. We’ll also help you connect to any monitoring apps so you can track your energy generation and usage.
• Handover & Demonstration: This is a key part of the process. Our installer will walk you through your new system, explaining how it works, how to read your inverter display (if applicable), and how to use any associated apps. We’ll show you how to safely shut down the system in an emergency (though this is rarely needed). You’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions you have.
• Approximate Time: Testing, commissioning, and handover typically take half a day to a full day.
• Disruption: Minimal. Your electricity might be temporarily interrupted during testing.

Stage 4 | Paperwork & MCS Certification: Finalising Your Solar Journey

Once your system is fully operational and you’re happy with the demonstration, there are a few final steps to complete.
What to expect:

• Certification and Documentation: You’ll receive all the necessary certifications, including your MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) certificate, electrical installation certificates, warranty documents for your panels, inverter, and battery, and a user manual. These documents are crucial for validating your installation and for any future government schemes or export tariffs.
• Grid Connection Notification: Your installer will notify your Distribution Network Operator (DNO) that your solar system has been connected to the national grid. This is a mandatory step in the UK.
• Scaffolding Removal: Once all work is complete, and usually within a few days of the main installation, the scaffolding company will return to dismantle and remove the scaffolding.

Life After Installation: Monitoring Your Savings with Fit Care

Our relationship doesn’t end there. With our Fit Care support, we’re here for the long haul. Whether it’s an annual health check or 24/7 electrical assistance, we’ve got your back.

Ready to start saving? If you haven’t made the leap yet, explore our installation costs here or give our friendly Stroud-based team a call on 01453 705915.

The future is here. Join in.