As solar continues to grow in popularity, so too does the number of companies offering quick, low-cost installations under the banner of “nationwide coverage.” On the surface, it sounds reassuring – a big company with a professional image and national reach. But behind that branding, the reality is often very different.
At Sunlit Solar, we’ve seen a steady rise in homeowners contacting us for help 18–24 months after their original system was installed. In many cases, the company that fitted it has either disappeared, stopped responding, or wasn’t the installer at all.
The Problem with Outsourced Installs
Many large, “national” solar companies don’t actually employ their own installation teams. Instead, they subcontract the work to smaller local installers. While this isn’t inherently wrong, problems arise when the job is rushed, the subcontractors aren’t paid properly, or communication between parties breaks down.
The result?
- No accountability: the homeowner doesn’t know who to contact when something goes wrong.
- No MCS certificate: because the company that sold the system didn’t complete or register it.
- No warranty: leaving customers without protection or aftercare.
We’ve had many calls from homeowners who thought they were covered, only to discover their system wasn’t properly signed off or eligible for export payments. In some cases, even the local installer who carried out the work never received payment from the main company, meaning they can’t afford to return for follow-ups.
The Hidden Risks of “Free” or “Grant-Based” Installs
We’re also hearing more stories involving “free” or “grant-backed” installations. While some schemes like ECO4 are legitimate, they’re aimed at specific households that meet certain criteria.
The challenge isn’t always the funding, it’s the quality and oversight.
When large companies handle too many projects at once and outsource the actual fitting, standards can slip. Equipment may be cheaper, workmanship can vary, and when something goes wrong, customers often find it difficult to reach the right person.
This doesn’t mean all grant-based installs are bad. Some are well-managed and genuinely help people access renewable energy. But it’s important to understand who’s actually doing the work and what guarantees are in place.
What Proper Accreditation and Aftercare Look Like
When choosing a solar installer, check that they’re MCS-certified and a member of the Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC). These certifications ensure your system meets industry standards and that you have access to proper complaints and warranty protection if something goes wrong.
Also, ask about insurance-backed warranties. These cover your system even if the installer stops trading, giving long-term peace of mind.
Why Choosing Local Matters
One of the biggest lessons from these situations is the value of working with a local, accountable company.
A business rooted in the community can’t simply disappear after installation. Their reputation depends on long-term relationships and genuine aftercare. At Sunlit Solar, every customer knows exactly who to call if they have a question or need support. We handle every part of the process in-house, from design and installation to ongoing service, so nothing gets lost in the middle.
It’s not about being the biggest company, it’s about being the one that stands by its work.
Our advice
At Sunlit Solar, we believe in empowering customers through honest advice. If you’re unsure about an offer, or if you’re worried about your system, we can help you check whether it’s safe and registered with the relevant bodies.
Phone: 01458 834 936
Email: info@sunlit-solar.co.uk
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