Question 1

How do I get a quote or book a survey?

Accepted Answer

Call 01376 297267 or use our contact form. We arrange a convenient visit, explain what the survey involves, and follow up with a written proposal — there is no obligation to install.

Question 2

How long does a solar survey take?

Accepted Answer

Most domestic surveys take 45–90 minutes on site. Larger homes, commercial roofs, or complex electrics may take longer. We will advise when you book.

Question 3

Is the survey free?

Accepted Answer

Contact us for current survey terms. We always explain any fees upfront and how they apply if you proceed with BlankSolar for installation.

Question 4

What should I prepare before the survey?

Accepted Answer

Have a recent electricity bill available and ensure we can access the loft, meter, and consumer unit. Tell us if you are planning an EV, heat pump, or battery so we size the system correctly.

Question 5

What does MCS-certified mean?

Accepted Answer

MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) certification shows your system is installed to recognised UK standards. It supports equipment warranties and is typically required for Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) tariffs.

Question 6

How long does installation take?

Accepted Answer

Many homes are completed in two to four days on site once scaffolding and materials are on site. Larger or commercial systems take longer; your quote includes a programme.

Question 7

Will you need scaffolding?

Accepted Answer

Most two-storey homes need scaffolding for safe roof access. We include this in your quote where required and coordinate erection and removal.

Question 8

Are you fully insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. BlankSolar is fully insured. Your quote and contract explain coverage for our work on your property.

Question 9

What size system do I need?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your roof space, shading, electricity usage, and plans such as an EV or battery. Your survey recommends a kW size — we will not overspec a system you cannot use.

Question 10

What are your installation packages?

Accepted Answer

We offer fixed-scope domestic packages from 2kW to 6kW. Your survey confirms the right band; scaffolding, DNO fees, or batteries are quoted separately where needed.

Question 11

Can you install on flat roofs?

Accepted Answer

Yes, with mounting suited to the roof build-up. The survey confirms load, wind exposure, and layout.

Question 12

Can you upgrade an existing system?

Accepted Answer

Often yes — we add capacity, replace inverters, or integrate batteries. We audit your current setup first and explain FiT or SEG implications if applicable.

Question 13

Do you install battery storage?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We install and commission batteries from trusted partners such as Fox ESS and GivEnergy, as part of new solar or as a retrofit where compatible.

Question 14

Can I add a battery to an existing solar system?

Accepted Answer

Often yes, via AC-coupled storage or a hybrid inverter upgrade. We confirm compatibility during a survey — some very old systems are better replaced in full.

Question 15

How much battery capacity do I need?

Accepted Answer

We size kWh to your generation and evening usage. Oversizing is avoided unless you have clear future needs such as an EV.

Question 16

Do you handle grid connection paperwork?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We identify whether your system needs G98 notification or G99 approval and submit technical data to your distribution network operator (DNO).

Question 17

What is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)?

Accepted Answer

SEG is a UK scheme where energy suppliers may pay you for surplus electricity exported to the grid. MCS certification is typically required; we guide you on registration after handover.

Question 18

Will a larger system always be approved by the DNO?

Accepted Answer

No — approval depends on local network capacity and your supply. We do not promise DNO outcomes before application; timelines vary by region.

Question 19

How much does solar cost?

Accepted Answer

Cost depends on system size, roof complexity, scaffolding, and equipment choice. Your written quote itemises everything — we do not quote unrealistic payback periods.

Question 20

Can you help with solar panel grants?

Accepted Answer

We explain schemes that may apply when we understand your property. Eligibility is decided by scheme operators — we provide MCS-compliant installs where required.

Question 21

Are prices on the website fixed?

Accepted Answer

Package guides are starting points. Your survey may change panel count, scaffolding, or DNO requirements; the final price is on your quote.

Question 22

Which areas do you cover?

Accepted Answer

We are based in Braintree, Essex, and install across the county — Chelmsford, Colchester, Southend, and many more towns. See our areas directory for your location. We also take on projects UK-wide.

Question 23

Where is BlankSolar based?

Accepted Answer

Unit G4, The Plaza, 1 Rutherford Park, Braintree, CM77 7AU. You can visit by appointment or find us on Google Maps.

Question 24

What if my town is not listed?

Accepted Answer

Contact us anyway — the directory grows regularly and UK-wide projects are considered case by case.

Question 25

What happens at handover?

Accepted Answer

We test the system, set up monitoring, provide MCS and warranty documents, and explain SEG registration and day-to-day operation.

Question 26

What warranty do I get?

Accepted Answer

Equipment carries manufacturer warranties; BlankSolar workmanship terms are in your contract. MCS documentation supports long-term compliance.

Question 27

Can you remove panels for re-roofing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We remove equipment safely, coordinate with your roofer, and reinstall and recommission when the roof is complete.

Question 28

Who do I contact for support after install?

Accepted Answer

Contact BlankSolar on 01376 297267 for monitoring queries, upgrades, or warranty questions. We remain your installer point of contact.

Frequently asked questions

Getting started

Installation & MCS

System size & packages

Batteries & storage

Grid & export (SEG)

Costs & grants

Areas we cover

After install & support

Ready to go solar?

Frequently asked questions

Getting started

How do I get a quote or book a survey?+−

How long does a solar survey take?+−

Is the survey free?+−

What should I prepare before the survey?+−

Installation & MCS

What does MCS-certified mean?+−

How long does installation take?+−

Will you need scaffolding?+−

Are you fully insured?+−

System size & packages

What size system do I need?+−

What are your installation packages?+−

Can you install on flat roofs?+−

Can you upgrade an existing system?+−

Batteries & storage

Do you install battery storage?+−

Can I add a battery to an existing solar system?+−

How much battery capacity do I need?+−

Grid & export (SEG)

Do you handle grid connection paperwork?+−

What is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)?+−

Will a larger system always be approved by the DNO?+−

Costs & grants

How much does solar cost?+−

Can you help with solar panel grants?+−

Are prices on the website fixed?+−

Areas we cover

Which areas do you cover?+−

Where is BlankSolar based?+−

What if my town is not listed?+−

After install & support

What happens at handover?+−

What warranty do I get?+−

Can you remove panels for re-roofing?+−

Who do I contact for support after install?+−

Ready to go solar?